Escribano Point Wildlife Management Area
Located in Santa Rosa County, Florida, the Escribano Point Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a 4.4-square-mile tract of undeveloped land that protects 10.4 miles of the northwest coast of Florida. In addition to protecting wildlife, the WMA also serves as an important ecological corridor, providing habitat for a variety of rare plants and animals. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) manages the 4,057-acre WMA. Its stewardship focuses on improving conditions for wildlife and recreation while restoring native habitats. In particular, the FWC has created a series of hiking trails and a kayak tour that allows visitors to take in the area's many natural and historical features. The agency's biologists will present a draft 10-year management plan for the area on April 14-15, allowing the public to learn more about the area's natural history.
The Escribano Point WMA contains a diverse mix of habitats, including salt marshes, sandhills, old-growth longleaf, slash pines, and cypresses. The area also has a number of rare plants, including the panhandle lily. The area is home to the federally endangered Reticulated Flatwoods Salamander. The species was once abundant in the area but has since been reduced to only two known breeding sites in the Florida panhandle.
The Escribano Point WMA is also home to numerous other wildlife. Ospreys can be seen soaring overhead, and a rare species of woodpecker can be found nesting in the slash pines. The Florida Black Bear is also known to frequent the area. Although the area is not a popular spot for camping, it is a popular fishing spot. There are several hand-launch sites, and there is a campground. The campsites are primitive but well-maintained. There is a portable toilet in the campground, and a few picnic tables, but no water. In fact, the only way to get to the campsites is by driving off the paved roads, and you must watch for bears. A great place to also visit is Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park
The Escribano Point WMA also has its fair share of other amenities. For instance, there are two hiking trails that are great for wildlife viewing. The trails traverse restored sandhills and cypresses and offer a glimpse of a variety of wildlife. During the spring, the FWC will offer a walk-in small-game hunting season and will offer general gun and archery hunts. In addition to these opportunities, the FWC will host a quota permit spring turkey hunt. The WMA also has two campgrounds, including a free group campsite. The campgrounds at the Escribano Point WMA are a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and they are a great place to spend a weekend with your friends and family.
The Escribano Point WMA's main draw is its diversity. This is evident in the many rare and endangered plant and animal species that can be found here. The area is also rich in history, having been a site of military activity over the years. In fact, the Florida Army Corps of Engineers erected a maintenance shop here in the early 20th century, when the property was used for military activities. Click for more info
