Released by the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail …

Live oaks arch over an unpaved road on a sunny spring day at Andrews Wildlife Management Area. Photo by Liz Schold, FWC.

Trail Site of the Month: Andrews Wildlife Management Area

Andrews Wildlife Management Area in Levy County is a 3,582-acre property adjacent to the beautiful Suwannee River. The management area includes a diverse array of habitats including floodplain swamp and hardwood hammock. More than 10 miles of trails and unpaved roads give you access on foot or bicycle to the interior of this site, where you can find former state champion trees within mature hardwood forest. Be sure to walk along the interpretive boardwalk over a floodplain swamp, looking and listening for Prothonotary Warblers and Acadian Flycatchers, and to spend some time quietly watching from the wildlife viewing blind, where you may spot a flock of Wild Turkeys. You may also be able to hear Brazilian free-tailed bats chittering inside of the on-site bat houses!

You can put your boat in at the ramp and explore the tree-lined Suwannee River, keeping your eyes peeled for wading birds on the banks and for Ospreys soaring overhead. For adventurous explorers, both Manatee Springs State Park and Fanning Springs State Park are within paddling distance!

Before you go, be sure to print a copy of the trail map or order a copy of the Andrews WMA Recreation Guide. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks!

Please note that this site is open to seasonal hunting, and is closed to other uses during some weekend hunts in October through April; please check online or call ahead for more information.

Address: 9550 NW 160th St., Fanning Springs, 32693

Phone: 386-758-0525

Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset