Lake Wales Ridge State Forest Walk-in-the-Water Tract
Explore diverse Florida ecosystems, from bogs to woodlands, with hiking and primitive camping. A natural escape with abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps
Lake Wales Ridge State Forest Walk-in-the-Water Tract
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse Florida ecosystems, from bogs to woodlands, with hiking and primitive camping. A natural escape with abundant wildlife.
"A beautiful area offering a taste of Florida's untamed beauty with varied landscapes for camping and hiking."
🗺️ Check Tract Maps
The forest has multiple tracts; know which one you're visiting for trail access and amenities.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be sandy or uneven; good footwear is essential for comfortable hiking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Cabin Loop Trail
Arbuckle Tract
A 1-mile hike showcasing bog environments and spring wildflowers. Well-marked with interpretive signs.
Grave Island Campsite
Walk-in-Water Tract
A favorite primitive camping spot along the creek, offering a taste of Florida's untamed beauty.
Hidden Hammock Hike
Walk-in-Water Tract
Explore tucked-back spots and enjoy beautiful sunsets on sandy roads suitable for passenger cars.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tracts & Trails
Respecting Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Check Tract Maps
The forest has multiple tracts; know which one you're visiting for trail access and amenities.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be sandy or uneven; good footwear is essential for comfortable hiking.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities mean you should bring your own provisions, especially for longer hikes.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Help keep the forest clean by packing out all trash and respecting the natural environment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Check Tract Maps
The forest has multiple tracts; know which one you're visiting for trail access and amenities.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be sandy or uneven; good footwear is essential for comfortable hiking.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities mean you should bring your own provisions, especially for longer hikes.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Help keep the forest clean by packing out all trash and respecting the natural environment.
🚗 Passenger Car Friendly
Sandy roads are generally compact, making them accessible for most passenger cars on weekdays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the forest's untamed beauty and diverse landscapes, highlighting its appeal for hiking and primitive camping. However, some express disappointment with litter and inconsistent trail markings, urging for better upkeep and respect for nature.
"Hiking here in early spring was a treat. This State Forest is broken into multiple tracts. We visited the Arbucle tract and hiked the Old Cabin Loop trail.
We were delighted with good weather, interesting bog environment, local history and great spring wildflowers.
There was not much shade on this 1 mile hike. There are interpretive signs and the trail is well marked"
Cory Richardson
"It is a beautiful area. We just wish the trails we're marked a little better and that people were slobs and left beer cans and bottles everywhere. If you go to Tiger Creek Picnic area be careful of the broken glass."
Tara Canfield
"Lakes Wales Ridge State Forest is beautiful. I love both sides called “Arbuckle Tract” and “Walk-in-Water.” I’ve been coming here for years to camp and hike, about two hours from hometown, so it’s a nice weekend getaway! The landscape on each hike changes so much, and you get a taste of all of what Florida has to offer in its untamed beauty. We’ve stayed in every primitive camp site they have here. Our favorite has to be Grave Island along the creek. We really liked Lakeside too, though. My dog comes with every time as well, and she absolutely loved it. We have even brought our new Winnebago camper here to experience dry camping. We loved it, and stayed at the Reedy Creek campground within."
Morgan Gosnell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The forest is divided into tracts. For the Walk-in-the-Water tract, follow local road signs. Sandy roads are generally accessible for passenger cars, especially on weekdays, though some spots can be bumpy.
Public transportation options are very limited for remote state forests like this. Driving is the most practical way to access the different tracts.
The Arbuckle Tract and Walk-in-Water Tract are the primary areas. Specific trailheads and campground entrances serve as access points within each tract.
Yes, you can drive through sections of the forest, particularly on the sandy roads. This allows access to various campsites and trailheads.
Typically, Florida State Forests do not have entrance fees for day use, but it's always best to check the official Florida Forest Service website for any updates or specific tract information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, generally there are no entrance fees or tickets required for day use of Florida State Forests. Enjoy the natural beauty freely!
State Forests are typically open from sunrise to sunset for day use. Campground hours may vary, so check with the Florida Forest Service for specific details.
Yes, primitive camping is available in several designated sites across the Arbuckle and Walk-in-Water tracts, such as Grave Island and Lakeside. Reservations might be recommended.
Standard rules apply, such as no littering and respecting wildlife. Specific fire restrictions may be in place depending on the season and weather conditions.
There isn't a traditional visitor center at this specific tract. Information is usually available online or through ranger stations for the broader Lake Wales Ridge State Forest area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Trails vary from well-marked loops like the Old Cabin Loop to more natural paths. Expect sandy terrain, boggy areas, and diverse Florida landscapes.
Absolutely! Visitors often report seeing abundant wildlife, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Shade can be limited on some trails, like the Old Cabin Loop. It's advisable to wear sun protection and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Trail marking can be inconsistent. While some are well-marked with interpretive signs, others might require more attention to navigation.
The forest is great for hiking, camping (primitive), wildlife viewing, and enjoying Florida's natural beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities within the forest. You'll need to bring all your food and drinks with you.
The nearest towns with restaurants and grocery stores are typically Lake Wales or Frostproof, which are a short drive away.
Yes, picnic areas are available, such as the Tiger Creek Picnic area. Remember to clean up thoroughly and pack out all trash.
Potable water is generally not available at the primitive campsites or trailheads. Bring plenty of water for drinking and cooking.
Pack non-perishable items, easy-to-prepare meals, and plenty of water. Consider a portable stove for cooking.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic views along trails, especially during sunrise and sunset. The diverse bog environments and wildflowers also offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, the natural habitats support a variety of bird species, making it a good location for bird photography if you're patient.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape and wildlife photography, with golden hour providing beautiful hues.
Keep an eye out for unique bog flora, native wildflowers in spring, and various wildlife like birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. Commercial photography or videography might need authorization.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families interested in camping, the primitive campsites offer a rustic adventure. Bringing along binoculars for wildlife spotting can add an extra layer of fun. It's important to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are scarce. Remind children about the importance of staying on marked trails and respecting the environment to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for everyone.
🏕️ Campers
Be prepared for a rustic experience: these sites typically lack amenities like potable water or restrooms. This means packing in all your supplies, including food, water, and camping gear. It's a fantastic way to disconnect and immerse yourself in the Florida wilderness, especially if you enjoy stargazing and waking up to the sounds of nature. Dogs are welcome, so your furry friends can join the adventure too!
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The varied habitats support a rich array of birds, reptiles, and other creatures. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for spotting wildlife and enjoying the best light for photography. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for sandy and potentially uneven terrain, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this natural gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tracts
Navigating between these tracts often involves driving on sandy roads. While many are compact enough for passenger cars, especially on weekdays, some sections can be bumpy. This accessibility allows for exploration of more secluded areas and tucked-back spots, perfect for those seeking solitude. The variety in landscape across the different tracts means that even repeat visitors can discover new sights and experiences, from dense woodlands to open marshy areas.
Camping and Recreation
Beyond camping, the forest is a haven for various recreational activities. Hiking is a primary draw, with trails catering to different fitness levels. Wildlife viewing is also a significant attraction, as the varied habitats support a rich array of fauna. Birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to observe. The sandy roads also lend themselves to leisurely drives, offering scenic views, especially during sunset, making it a well-rounded destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Environmental Considerations
The trail marking can also be a point of improvement. While some trails are clearly marked with interpretive signs, others may be less defined, requiring visitors to pay closer attention to their surroundings and navigation. This is especially true for those venturing off the most popular loops. Being prepared with a map, compass, or GPS device can enhance the experience and ensure safety, particularly when exploring less-traveled paths within the diverse bog and woodland environments.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit