State Forests in Florida

The Florida Forest Service has guided the operation of state forests for 75 years. It is our primary mission, while managing these lands, to protect and maintain the biological diversity of the many ecosystems found in and around the state forests while integrating public use of the resources.

Through sound forest management practices, the Florida Forest Service is able to maintain the integrity of the forest environment while providing for the state's future natural resource needs. There are currently 35 state forests that total over 1,058,000 acres.

History of Florida's State Forests

• Operation Outdoor Freedom
• Endangered and Threatened Plant Conservation Program

The Florida Forest Service's prescribed burn program enhances the habitat of fauna and flora by controlling the hardwoods and underbrush that can replace native species living on the forest. Prescribed fire also helps prevent uncontrolled wildfires.

In the late 1970s, Florida began aggressively purchasing land for future generations from which more state forests were created. The focus on land management shifted from simply management of timber and wildlife resources to a multiple land use management ethic which includes conservation of natural and cultural resources, wildlife management, protection of water resources, and outdoor recreation.

Since its humble beginnings in 1936 of one state forest with 6,000 acres, Florida ’s state forest system has grown to include 35 state forests and the management of over one million acres of forest lands. For more information, visit the State Forest Historical Timeline.

Trailtrotter Program... Explore the forest on horseback.	Trailwalker Hiking Program.
The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through several state forests.	Many state forests are part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.