District updates access information to recreation areas impacted by Michael

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Hurricane Michael severely impacted several District-owned water management areas and their associated recreation areas.

Access to non-improved areas in the hurricane-impacted Econfina Creek, Chipola River and Apalachicola River Water Management Areas (including the Fitzhugh Carter Area, Beaverdam Creek Wildlife Management Area, and the District portions of the Apalachicola Wildlife Management Area and the Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area) is currently allowed for hunting, hiking, fishing, birdwatching and nature appreciation, in accordance with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Management Area rules for these areas (available at http://myfwc.com/hunting/wma-brochures).

Vehicle access may be limited in many areas by closed gates. All roads behind closed gates are designated as closed to motor vehicle traffic.

Day use sites remain closed in these areas. Camping is not allowed within the Econfina Creek WMA, Chipola River WMA, or in the designated (reservation permit required) campsites at the Florida River Island campground in the Apalachicola WMA.

Disbursed (backcountry) camping is allowed in the District-owned portions of the Apalachicola WMA and the Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area, except in areas posted as “No Camping.”