Walk In the Water Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

Walk in the Water Hike-in Primitive Campsites are located on the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, (Polk County) on the Walk In The Water tract, approximately 44 miles SE of Lakeland, FL. It features 2 Hike-in only primitive campsites: Black Bear and Wood Duck campsites, both along the Big Bay Trail. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. There is no water or electricity available. Both campsites are hike in only and require advanced registration. Recreational activities featured here are: hunting, scouting, hiking, bicycling, picnicking, horseback riding, fishing and wildlife viewing.

The forest offers many recreational opportunities for the rugged outdoor enthusiast as well as the occasional visitor. Hiking trails cross a variety of terrains from forest wetlands to ancient, dry scrub communities. The state forest contains four hiking trails that are included in the Florida Forest Service's Click Here. Hikers can take advantage of the two hiking trails on the Walk In the Water tract, which include Big Bay Trail, Scrub Jay Loop Trail and two designated horseback riding/equestrian trails (Red and Blue). For more information Click Here.

Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring.

Primitive campsite access is hike-in only to each primitive campsite from Big Bay Trail or service roads on Walk In the Water tract. Campsite parking is primarily located at Big Bay Trailhead located off of County Road 630 East. See kiosks at trailheads and campground on Walk In the Water tract for information.

Base campsite fees include 5 people and two cars. Additional individuals are $2.00 each and each additional car is $5.00. Use "Leave No Trace" Principles - Plan Ahead and Prepare, Dispose of trash and litter properly-keep campsites clean, Minimize Campfire impacts-Clean fire ring after use, Respect Wildlife and Be Considerate of Other Visitors