The Richloam Wildlife Management Area occupies 58,000 acres in Hernando, Pasco,
Sumter and Lake Counties - and is one of seven large tracts that make up the Withlacoochee
State Forest. Hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, bicycling, camping and
horseback riding are all popular recreational activities enjoyed in Richloam.
The
primary trailhead for access to Richloam is located south of S.R. 50 along Clay
Sink Road at the Division of Forestry firetower. That location includes an information
kiosk with trail maps and a list of all the hunt camp locations in the area. The
trailhead is at the center point of three loop trails ranging in length from 9.4
to 13.6 miles. The trails may be hiked separately, or combined for a longer overnight
backpacking hike. The firetower trailhead is also an entry point to the Florida
National Scenic Trail, which follows a portion of the Richloam South Loop trail.
The terrain consists predominantly of pine flatwoods with scattered oak hammocks,
bottomland hardwoods, and cypress swamps.
It is important to note that Richloam is a remote area serviced primarily by unpaved
forest roads - some of which may not be suitable for two-wheel drive passenger automobiles.
The trails are long and there are no facilities available. Cellphone service may
be sporadic or non-existent. So hikers should be sure to bring all of the water
and supplies they may need. Pack it in and pack it out.
Located at the northwest tip of the Richloam Tract is the Little River Recreation
Area with shorter multi-use trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use. That area
is covered by a
separate page
on this website.
The Division of Forestry firetower trailhead site has several other features worthy
of mention. The first, obviously is the fire tower. As of this writing, the tower
appeared to be open to the public ... with an unlocked gate and a sign warning that
"Visitors ascend at their own risk". So if you ever wanted to climb to
the top of a forestry fire tower, this may be your chance. Also, be sure to visit
the nearby Richloam General Store. This historic general store and post office dates
from 1922, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is open
to the public and sells jams, jellies, canned and dry goods.
Activities & Facilities
Dogs allowed
Short hiking trails
Long hiking trails
Paved bike trails
Mountain bike trails
Horse trails
Tent camping
Hunting
Fishing