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State Forest Recreation
New ‘Nicole's Law’ Effective October 1st, 2009
To further promote the safety of children, the 2009 Florida Legislation passed a bill referred to as ‘Nicole’s Law.’ This law requires any child under the age of 16 years and riding an equine on any public lands, roads, or trails to wear a certified helmet. Florida’s State Forests are public lands, and all riders under age 16 must comply with this law.
A parent or guardian of a child under 16 years of age many not authorize or knowingly permit a child to ride without a helmet. Responsibility lies with any trainer, instructor or supervisor who rents or leases an equine to be ridden by a child younger than 16 or when renting or leasing equine supplies.
For more information regarding this law including penalty and exceptions, see CHAPTER 2009-105: Committee Substitute for House Bill No. 169
Read Governor Crist’s press release regarding ‘Nicole’s Law” : http://www.flgov.com/release/10814
Outdoor recreational opportunities on Florida's State Forests are as diverse as the resources themselves. Most recreational opportunities in Florida's State Forests are passive in nature. Utilizing old roadbeds and fire lanes as trails, people can physically brush up against Florida's natural and untamed resources.
Whether it's by bicycle, horse, or foot, visitors to State Forests in Florida can experience first-hand the same outdoor elements that early settlers and inhabitants once experienced. In addition to providing outdoor recreation, state forest trails serve as outdoor classrooms for people of all ages to explore and learn.
State Forests are open to public access. Some forest roads may require a State Forest Use Authorization for vehicle access. In addition, any group activity requires a State Forest Use Authorization and possibly a fee. These authorizations may be obtained in advance by contacting the state forest you plan to visit. 
Many state forests are open to regulated hunting and fishing under the direction of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Hunting requires a license and permit and is allowed only in designated Wildlife Management Areas during appropriate seasons. Fishing also requires a valid license.
We encourage non-hunting recreationists to check the Wildlife Management Area regulations and season dates before visiting
Have a question about recreation on state forests?
Contact Us
Lorna L. Tucker, Public Information / Marketing Specialist
Division of Forestry
3125 Conner Blvd. C25
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1650
Telephone: 850-414-0871
FAX: 850-921-6724
Email: FLDOFrecreation@doacs.state.fl.us
Space, Solitude, and Self-Reliance
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