The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Florida Forest Service is creating a very special place for wounded veterans to enjoy the great outdoors in northwest Florida. In 2021, the FDACS acquired 620 acres adjoining the western portion of Pine Log State Forest to be used for creating hunting and recreation opportunities for Florida’s wounded veterans.
Under the direction of Operation Outdoor Freedom, the acreage along Pine Log Creek will be facilitated for special events for the veterans that will include fishing, hunting, boating, and lodging. The parcel also includes a remodeled home with ADA access that will provide nightly accommodations.
Currently the acreage is not open to the general public; however, hiking/biking trails are in the plans for the future.
About Operation Outdoor Freedom:
Supported by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and led by the Florida Forest Service, Operation Outdoor Freedom provides recreational and rehabilitative opportunities to wounded veterans on state forests, agricultural lands and private lands throughout Florida at no cost. Since its inception in 2009, Operation Outdoor Freedom has hosted more than 500 events and served approximately 4,100 wounded veterans.
Eligibility Requirements
Participation in the Operation Outdoor Freedom Program has been established for Florida residents, as defined in Section 379.101(30)(b), Florida Statutes, who are honorably discharged military veterans with either:
- A service-connected disability rating of 30% or greater from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs
- Or Purple Heart recipient
Learn more about Operation Outdoor Freedom at https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/State-Forest-Recreation/Operation-Outdoor-Freedom or call (863) 578-1894.
Learn more about Pine Log State Forest here.