Deserter's Hammock

Trail Overview

This trail is located within the Mallory Swamp Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Public access is open year-round from 1 1/2 hours before sunrise until 1 1/2 hours after sunset. ATVs, SxS, or unlicensed or unregistered motorcycles are permitted following the close of Spring Turkey season until the beginning of the Fall black powder hunting season. The use of airboats and tracked vehicles is prohibited. Class 1 electric bicycles may be operated according to rules for traditional, non-motorized bicycles. All other electric bicycles may be operated only on named or numbered roads open to motorized vehicles. The trail traverses across vast wetland areas and pockets of upland pine hammocks. The trail varies in width and has many narrow sections that are single-vehicle wide. Pull-off areas for passing are limited to shoulder areas abutting drop-offs into the adjacent swamp. The shoulders are soft and muddy. There are plenty of deep ruts where vehicles have pulled over to pass and have sunk deep into the mud. The trail varies between dirt/mud to compacted sand and rock. The trail is riddled with deep potholes and deep wheel ruts in muddy areas or areas prone to water crossings. During the wet season, expect numerous water crossings, some over 12". Trails are not maintained, and fallen trees and debris following storms can be expected. Wildlife observation opportunities abound. There is a possibility of observing a variety of wildlife. This is an active preserve that has several open hunting seasons starting late summer, extending through Spring.

Photos of Deserter's Hammock

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Difficulty

The trail varies in width and has many narrow sections that are single-vehicle wide. Pull-off areas for passing are limited to shoulder areas abutting drop-offs into the adjacent swamp. The shoulders are soft and muddy. There are plenty of deep ruts where vehicles have pulled over to pass and have sunk deep into the mud. The trail varies between dirt/mud to compacted sand and rock. The trail is riddled with deep potholes and deep wheel ruts in muddy areas or areas prone to water crossings. During the wet season, expect numerous water crossings, some over 12 inches. The trails are not maintained, and fallen trees and debris following storms can be expected.

History

The Sam Shine Foundation gained possession of the 31,000 plus acres that composes Mallory Swamp in 1997. This was part of a restoration effort for the Suwanee River Management and Conservation. The Sam Shine Foundation turned this property over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission to continue the preservation of the lands and establish the WMA.

Technical Rating

Deserter's Hammock can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike