Size
5,800 acres
Location
Eastern Manatee County, east of Lake Manatee
About the Property
As part of the District’s Lake Manatee Reserve project, the Gilley Creek Tract protects the main branch of Gilley Creek, which is one of the main tributaries of the Little Manatee River. The creek flows into Lake Manatee, which serves as the primary drinking water source for Manatee County.
Formerly a cattle ranch that had been converted to pasture, hardwood hammocks are still found along the creek channels and wetlands. Remnant patches of native groundcover species still remain and will serve as the seed source for restoration efforts. Where appropriate, portions of the property will be restored to the native pine flatwoods community by replanting pines and conducting prescribed burns on intervals that would mimic the natural fire cycle.
The hydrology of the site will also be restored to the extent possible. The property was extensively ditched in the 1950s to create crop and pasture lands. As more historical hydrological conditions are established, it is anticipated that the surface water will begin to flow more naturally through sheetflow rather than in the ditches. This will enable the uplands to serve as natural water-filtering areas and provide cleaner water to Lake Manatee. Restoring the hydrology will also aid the reestablishment of the natural communities that once were present on the property and required moister soils to thrive.
Access and Parking
Entrance located north of Lake Manatee on SR 675. Parking area on east side of road.
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Restrooms and Water
No restrooms or water available.
Recreational Opportunities
Short sections of trails may go through area leased for cattle grazing. Exercise caution in these areas. Stay on marked trail at all times and remember that cattle serve a management function on the property and should not be disturbed.
Bicycling
- Loop trails on 12 miles of old roads.
- Always wear helmet. Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 to wear helmets.
Equestrian Use
- 12 miles of interior roads marked as trails.
- Equestrian parking area available near main gate. Access available with free quarterly use permit from District.
- Each rider must carry proof of current negative Coggins test.
Fishing
- All water bodies open for fishing, unless posted closed.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for license requirements.
Hiking
12 miles of multiuse trails.
Nearby Recreation Lands
- Lake Manatee State Park
- Manatee County’s Duette Park and Rye Wilderness Park
For More Information
Land Resources Department, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470
