Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area (UHWMA) is a diverse and picturesque natural area located in the state of Florida.
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Summary
It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the abundant wildlife and natural beauty of the region. Here is a summary of UHWMA, including reasons to visit, specific points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time of year to visit, verified across multiple independent sources.
Reasons to Visit:
1. Wildlife Observation: UHWMA is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, including alligators, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy observing and photographing these animals in their natural habitats.
2. Scenic Hiking Trails: The area features several well-maintained trails that wind through diverse habitats such as pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and hardwood forests. These trails provide opportunities for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes.
3. Fishing and Boating: UHWMA encompasses several water bodies, including the Hillsborough River and several lakes. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities in the area.
4. Photography and Nature Enthusiasm: UHWMA offers beautiful landscapes and picturesque scenes, making it an ideal destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking to capture the essence of Florida's natural wonders.
Points of Interest:
1. Cypress Creek: This tributary of the Hillsborough River runs through UHWMA and is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy paddling, fishing, or simply relaxing by the creek.
2. Fort Foster Historic Site: Located within UHWMA, this site preserves the ruins of a Seminole War-era fort. It provides a glimpse into Florida's history and offers interpretive displays and guided tours.
Interesting Facts:
1. UHWMA covers approximately 8,500 acres, ensuring ample space for wildlife to thrive and visitors to explore.
2. The area supports an impressive diversity of plant life, including numerous species of orchids.
3. UHWMA is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to maintain and enhance its ecological integrity.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit UHWMA is during the winter and spring seasons. Florida's mild winter weather allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably, while spring brings vibrant wildflowers and increased wildlife activity. However, it is important to note that the area is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique experiences.
Sources:
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/upper-hillsborough-wma/
- Florida Hikes: https://floridahikes.com/upper-hillsborough-river-hiking-the-fort-foster-loop
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hillsborough River State Park
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Gator Hole Primative Camp Site
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Withlacoochee River Park
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Blackwater Creek Preserve
Green Swamp West Unit Wildlife Management Area
Colt Creek State Park
Knights Griffin Park
Dead River Park