Kissimmee River Public Use Area: KICCO

KICCO Wildlife Management Area, which is pronounced kiss-oh, is a place where you can get the real feel of “Old Florida.” In this region you will enjoy a rich patchwork of habitat extremes from scrub to marsh.

Experience the natural beauty of this area by camping at any of the five primitive campsites, bicycling a ten-mile dirt road, hiking 11 miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail, or riding your own horse. Remember your fishing pole. Bass lurk in the waters of the C-38 Canal and the oxbows of the Old Kissimmee River.

Kissimmee River Public Use Area: Istokpoga Canal Boat Ramp Area

The Istokpoga Canal Boat Ramp Area features boat ramps and an airboat ramp. It also has access to the Hickory Hammock trailhead with primitive camping and parking for equestrian trailers.

Majestic live oaks line both sides of the hiking trail as you enter Hickory Hammock. Marshes, patches of scrub and oak, along with hickory and cabbage palm hammocks await exploration. With all of this diversity, it’s easy to see why Hickory Hammock is a stop along the Great Florida Birding Trail and the Everglades Trail.

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Wildlife Management Area: Catfish Creek

Nestled on the shores of Lake Hatchineha, this area offers many recreational opportunities and beautiful vistas.

Catfish Creek is a popular landing for airboats. When the water level is high, you can enjoy a canoe or kayak ride along the cypress strand. Paddle between marshy vegetation on the lakeside and cypress on the land side, or explore the property by foot along grassy trails. Watch for wildlife, including wading birds, deer, turkey, alligators, bald eagles and turtles.

Kissimmee River Public Use Area: Blanket Bay Slough

Blanket Bay Slough offers primitive waterfront camping on the east side of the Kissimmee River. There are no trails on Blanket Bay Slough, as it is mainly marsh, however during the dry season from November through March, you can hike along the river and take in a refreshing view of the water.

KICCO Wildlife Management Area, which is pronounced kiss-oh, is a place where you can get the real feel of “Old Florida.” In this region you will enjoy a rich patchwork of habitat extremes from scrub to marsh.