Trail Overview
This trail is located within the Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area (WMA), also known as Green Swamp East. This area requires a WMA recreational use permit to access. Public access is limited to periods open for scouting or hunting, and during the fishing and frogging season. These seasons are posted on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) website. Additionally, during select periods of the year, an additional special quota permit that is issued by the FWC is required. During these periods will be required to check in and out at the Check stations off Main Grade or Tillman Lake Road.
Only registered and licensed street legal vehicles are permitted access when opened to vehicular traffic.
Tillman Lake Road is a very scenic canopy-covered trail leading through the deeply forested area to several key trailheads of the Florida Trail, a national scenic hiking trail. The trail crosses over several single-lane bridges, giving iconic views of the swamp's natural beauty. Majestic oaks and mature hardwood tree canopies cast their shadows over the trail, giving the feel of going back in time as the trail progresses deep into the forest. The trail varies in width between single vehicle wide to multiple vehicle wide. There are portions where shoulders are narrow or soft dirt, so passing in these areas requires looking well ahead. There are a few blind curves that require exercising caution, as the trail may suddenly narrow, leaving little area to lay over to allow others to pass. The trail is mostly compacted rock and shell, with some areas of compacted dirt. Potholes and minor rutting are typical along the trail; some potholes may be wide and deep enough to cause damage to wheels or steering components. The trail travels through a variety of ecosystems, ranging from longleaf pine sandhills, upland hardwoods, herbaceous wetlands, pine flatwoods, hardwood swamps, and floodplain marsh areas. Obstacles up to 12” may be encountered. Several segments of the Florida Trail join or parallel the trail.
