Nature lovers looking for a unique outdoor experience in Panama City, Florida have plenty of options to choose from. From kayaking and canoeing to horseback riding and wildlife observation, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the area. The Econfina Creek Water Management Area is a 41,000-acre creekfront region that offers kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, picturesque trails and seasonal hunting. This wildlife management area is also a mitigation bank property, purchased by the Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWFWMD) to offset the impacts of development on other wetlands in the surrounding areas.
The primary purpose of the Carter Tract is the preservation and restoration of the property's surrounding wetlands and highlands. Therefore, recreational use is limited and more intensively managed in this wildlife management area than in most others in the Northwest Region. While the Carter Tract is open to walking access every day during the day, public vehicle access is limited from Friday to Monday (except during established hunting seasons) and is restricted to improving roads. Camping, swimming, horseback riding, cycling and all-terrain vehicles are prohibited in the area.
As one of the closest outdoor reserves to Panama City and the PCB, just 30 or 40 minutes' drive away, the Point Washington State Forest offers more than 15,250 acres of impressive outdoor attractions and sporting opportunities. Managed by the Northwest Florida Water Administration and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the recreational area offers paddling, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking, camping and wildlife observation, all within a 41,363 acre radius of unparalleled scenic beauty. Located just over an hour from the Panama City area, Choctawhatchee River Water Management Area offers 57,000 acres of exploration, as well as 30 miles of river. Econfina Creek is known for its extraordinary kayaking and canoeing trails which you can explore with a professional supplier from Panama City Beach such as Coldwater Excursions.
You can also tour Holmes Creek with a local kayak provider in Panama City Beach or rent it at Holmes Creek Canoe Livery in Vernon, Florida. Nature lovers can explore the scenic beauty on foot, by off-road bike or on horseback on 23.8 miles of wooded trails or navigate the river by kayak, canoe or boat. If you're staying in Panama City during your vacation and are drawn to the thrill of exploring outdoors, any of these attractions or family golf adventures are sure to make your vacation more complete and unforgettable. Econfina Creek Water Management Area; Point Washington State Forest; Choctawhatchee River Water Management Area are three incredible outdoor attractions for the whole family that are well worth a quick trip from Panama City Beach for a satisfying outdoor experience.
