Billie Bay Wilderness

Legend has it that the Seminole warrior Billie Bowlegs hid out in this swamp, from which the headwaters of Alexander Springs arises.

Old-timers refer to swamps as "bays" and this one is a prime example of a pristine Florida swamp. In the interior of this 3,092-acre swamp, red maple, loblolly bay, sweetgum, cabbage palms and loblolly pine filter the sunlight, and on the drier perimeter are longleaf pine and slash pine. A dense understory of palmetto and gallberry hides the swampy interior and discourages any attempts at bushwhacking.

Boating

Boats can access the area along the Alexander Run, which makes for great fishing.

Nature Viewing

Wildlife is abundant in Billies Bay Wilderness because the swamp is simply so inaccessible. No trails lead into it, so wildlife viewing is only possible from either the Alexander Run or the Florida National Scenic Trail along the edge of the wilderness area.

Current Conditions

Expect full recreation sites during weekends. Have backup plans. Sites may close when capacity is reached.

General Information

Amenities

None

Licenses and Passes

Boating

Boating in the National Forests in Florida is regulated by the state of Florida. Please visit our boating web page before you grab your personal floatation device and head out onto the water.

Camping – Dispersed/Primitive Camping

Many people enjoy this solitude and primitive experience, but knowing your limits, skills and abilities is a must. Following certain rules and regulations will help make your experience safer and ensure settings remain unspoiled.

Fishing

Florida requires a state license for all fishing activities. Visit our fishing web page before you grab your gear.

Hunting

Don’t forget your state license. Rules vary by each national forest. Check out our hunting web page for more information.

This is an extremely inaccessible area.
Motorized vehicles are not permitted.

Getting There

Directions

Billies Bay Wilderness lies west of Alexander Springs Recreation Area, east of CR 445-A, east of SR 19, and west of CR 445. It is bordered by Sandhill Pond off SR 19 and the Florida Trail on its southern edge.