District opens new site at Wolf Pond South

YOUNGSTOWN – The Northwest Florida Water Management held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday to celebrate the opening of Wolf Pond South recreation site.

The District was joined by Bay County Commissioner Doug Moore and Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton for the event.

The recreation site, located within the Econfina Creek Water Management Area, features overnight camping and provides direct access to the Wolf Pond Equestrian Trail – a 13.5 mile trail popular with horse-riding enthusiasts.

“We take tremendous pride in not only protecting and preserving the lands we manage but also providing the public with access and recreational opportunities on these lands,” Governing Board member Ted Everett said.

The District also honored Sylvia Gates, who has volunteered countless hours through the years to help establish more than 45 miles of equestrian trails within the Econfina Creek WMA. A sign honoring Gates’ contributions was unveiled during Wednesday’s event.

Wolf Pond South is one of 24 recreation sites the District maintains within the Econfina Creek WMA. It is one of 13 that offers overnight camping sites.

All overnight camping sites on District-managed lands are free but require an online reservation. To reserve a camping site, go to https://nwfwater.com/lands/recreation/ and follow the instructions for registration.