Fort Drum Wildlife Management Area

Fort Drum Wildlife Management Area spans nearly 21,000 acres in southwestern Indian River County. It features a mix of wetland and upland habitats, including dry prairie, pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp, and floodplain marsh. These environments support diverse wildlife, such as Florida sandhill cranes, wood storks, bald eagles, deer, wild turkeys, and feral hogs.

A boardwalk through the hardwood swamp leads to Hog Island, where trails and primitive campsites are available. The Florida Trail Association maintains these sites. Horseshoe Lake has a picnic pavilion and tables, but vehicle access requires a permit from the St. Johns River Water Management District.

Visitors can also hunt, fish, hike, ride horses, bike, paddle, and camp. However, special-opportunity and quota permits are required for hunting deer, hogs, and spring turkey. Children under 16 must wear a helmet when horseback riding. Dogs must also be leashed and are prohibited in restricted areas. Hunting dogs can enter the area at specific times but cannot be used for hunting deer or wild hogs. Meanwhile, bird dogs and retrievers are allowed during small game season.