Clear Lake Wilderness Study Area

Area Status: Open

Mist rising from Clear Lake with blue skies and green trees in the background.

Designated by Congress in the Florida Wilderness Act of 1983, Clear Lake Wilderness Study Area could be considered "the future of wilderness." Wilderness study areas have many of the same characteristics of a designated wilderness area, but have not yet been granted the same determination. However, the Forest Service manages them just like wilderness.

At 5,635 acres, this area showcases a prime ecosystem not currently represented in the National Wilderness Preservation System - the longleaf pine.

Visitors must pack out any waste.

Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack it in, pack it out; do not disturb wildlife; leave what you find; camp and travel on durable surfaces; minimize use and impact of campfires; and be sure to let someone know where you’re going.

At a Glance

Operational Hours:	24 hours
Fees:	Free
Usage:	Light
Restrictions:	Motorized vehicles are not permitted. Visitors must pack in their drinking water and pack out any waste. Camp at least 200 feet from trails/roads and 100 feet from water sources. Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Plan ahead and prepare; travel and camp on durable surfaces; dispose of waste properly; leave what you find; minimize campfire impacts; respect wildlife and be considerate of other visitors. Checking in at a district office is a good idea, to inform someone of your travel plans and get the latest info on weather conditions. The staff can also inform you about any campfire ban in effect during times of high fire danger.

General Information

General Notes:

Checking in at a district office is a good idea to inform someone of your travel plans and get the latest info on weather conditions. The staff can also tell you about any campfire bans in effect during times of high fire danger.

Licenses and Passes

Boating -- Non-motorized

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.

Directions:

From Crawfordville

Drive north on US 319 for about 5 miles.
Turn left onto FL-267.
Follow this road for a little over 7 miles.
Turn right on Forest Road 307. This forms the southern boundary of the study area.

From Tallahassee

Drive south on US 319 for 11 miles.
Turn right onto FL-267.
Follow this road for a little over 7 miles.
Turn right on Forest Road 307. This forms the southern boundary of the study area.