Choose Your Own Adventure

Richloam Wildlife Management Area a Prime Spot for Hunters, Hikers, Bicyclists

- Mary Toothman

If you love nature, horseback riding, or hunting — or any combination of the three — chances are you may have been to the Richloam Wildlife Management Area, or plan to visit. The Richloam Wildlife Management Area (WMS) is a 58,000-acre tract. It is one of seven large tracts that make up the Withlacoochee State Forest. The Richloam Tract includes land in Hernando, Pasco, Sumter, and Lake counties.

Even if you’re not into hunting, the area near Webster has much to offer people who are interested in other back-to-nature activities. It features a 9.9-mile back trail as well as a lake. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on a leash.

At alltrails.com, a site where information on spots popular with hikers, bicyclists and/or trail runs, Richloam’s trail is cited as being good for all skill levels. Pine Flatwoods with scattered oak hammocks, bottomland hardwoods, and cypress swamp are the primary natural communities in the area.

Hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, camping, horseback riding, hiking, and bicycling are popular recreational activities at Richloam. There are miles of shared trails for horseback riding, bicycling, and hiking, along with three loop hiking trails.

If you already participate in some of these activities, you are no doubt aware that there are rules, laws, and regulations that must be abided by when enjoying the great outdoors — particularly at publicly-owned sites. It is important to stay up-to-date in order to abide by the law, stay safe and ensure pleasurable experiences. Here is a snapshot of rules you need to know while sporting at Richloam.