Dinner Island Ranch - Recreation

In support of the resource management goals and objectives for the area and to provide a quality experience for all area users, the following recreation activities are allowed.

Hunting

Hunting is limited to high quality hunts with a limited number of hunters during seasons that run from August to April. A hunting license, Wildlife Management Area Permit and a quota hunt permit are required to hunt here. Check the  Dinner Island Ranch hunt regulations for the type of quota permit required for each season.   A quota permit is not required during the small game season.  This area was one of the most sought after quota hunt areas in the state when it was opened for hunting in 2003. The area good opportunities for deer, turkey, hog, dove and migratory birds.

Hunting Regulations with Maps and Hunting Calendar

Fishing

Fishing is permitted throughout the area but opportunities are limited to bank fishing along canals and in scattered ponds. Water levels fluctuate with seasonal rainfall. Appropriate licenses and permits are required.

Wildlife Viewing

Dinner Island Ranch WMA is an excellent place to view wildlife year-round. Wading birds of all types - ibis, herons, egrets, wood storks, roseate spoonbills - as well as Florida sandhill cranes, crested caracaras, kestrels and white-tailed deer are common. This area is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.  You may also request a copy or download or print the Dinner Island Ranch Bird List .  Visit the Wildlife page for more information about the area's wildlife.

Hiking

Hikes are pleasant along any of the unimproved numbered roads with late fall through spring being the best time. All roads are open to vehicles year-round and seasonal rainfall periodically floods some sections. Road 5 is the driest unimproved road and offers one the best opportunities for foot travel.

Biking

Off-road bicyclists will find that the named roads offer the best travel conditions. The numbered roads are decent for mountain bikes with 3, 5, 7/9, and 10 being the most accessible. All roads offer great scenery and abundant wildlife.

Horseback Riding

Horses are prohibited during archery, muzzleloading gun, general hunt, family hunts, and spring turkey season.  During the remainder of the year, horses are permitted only on named or numbered roads.  Children under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when riding on public lands.  For more detailed information go to Nicole's Law .  All horseback riders must have proof of current negative Coggins Test results for their horses when on state lands.

Camping

Camping is permitted year-round at one of the two designated camping areas.  Camp A is an open field with easy access for trailers.  Camp B is loated under an oak hammock with plenty of shade and a vault toilet.  You will need to bring your own water.

Scenic Driving

Unpaved roads pass through a variety of natural communities and offer opportunities to observe wildlife, wild flowers, butterflies and much more.