Take a Walk on the Wild Side at J W Corbett Wildlife Management Area

Trip OverviewJoin expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski for a guided exploration of over 60,000 acres of diverse habitat in J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. Located just east of Lake Okeechobee and 25 miles northwest of West Palm Beach, Corbett is part of both the Ocean to Lake Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

This underbirded gem is known for its rich biodiversity and wide-open natural beauty. Past trips have revealed exciting species such as Vermilion Flycatcher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Wilson’s Snipe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and large flocks of Sandhill Cranes. With a mix of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and open prairie, this location offers excellent birding for all levels of experience.

Meeting DetailsMeeting Point: South entrance, behind the check-in station. Look for a log home on the left-hand side with parking behind it.

Address: 11835 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33412

Directions: From Southern Blvd, take Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. This road dead-ends into J.W. Corbett WMA. You’ll pass the Palm Beach Shooting Sports Complex. Turn left into the WMA just before the canal. If you pass the canal, you’ve gone too far.

Important Information

• Registration Encouraged: Please register in advance to secure your spot. Walk-ins are allowed only if space permits and must sign a waiver at check-in.
• Group Size: Participation is limited for safety and a high-quality experience.
• Vehicle Registration: One ticket per vehicle. If you're riding together, register as one. If you need or can offer a ride, contact us and we’ll help coordinate.
• Arrival Time: Please plan to arrive early to account for traffic or GPS errors.
• Entry Fee: $3 per person or $6 per vehicle unless you have a senior pass. Pay at the yellow self-check station and place the receipt in your windshield.

Terrain and Accessibility

• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
• Terrain Difficulty: Moderate. Routes include unpaved, uneven roads with three low-water crossings. Not suitable for low-clearance vehicles.
• Trail Conditions: Some trails may be wet or muddy, especially after rain. Please wear appropriate footwear suitable for rough and wet terrain.
• Restroom Access: Portable toilets are available along the route. A flush restroom is located at Hungryland Boardwalk.

Route (Subject to Change)South Grade → Boardwalk → Stumpers Grade → Tomato GradeStops will include birding hotspots and campsites where migrant birds are often observed. The final route is at the discretion of the trip leader.

What to Bring

• Insect repellent
• Ample water, snacks, or lunch
• Hat, sunscreen, and other sun/wind protection
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Binoculars (extras may be available to borrow)

Wildlife AdvisoryThis area is home to a variety of native wildlife, including alligators, snakes, raccoons, fire ants, possums, and possibly a resident bobcat. Please observe from a safe distance.

Photography and Media NoticeParticipants may be photographed during the trip. By attending, you agree to allow use of your image in Audubon Everglades’ communications and social media unless you opt out by notifying the leader.

Contact: [email protected]

Bird ChecklistWe will maintain a shared eBird checklist of sightings.Previous trip highlights (Jan 6, 2024): 54 species observed. View checklist

Learn MoreJ.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area website:https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/j-w-corbett-wma/

Optional Donation

This event is free to attend, but if you are able, we invite you to make an optional donation to support our Avian Conservation Fund. Your contribution helps us keep these experiences accessible to all and directly supports local conservation and education programs.

You can select an "Optional Donation" ticket during registration. Thank you for helping us protect Florida’s birds and habitats!

Audubon Everglades is dedicated to the conservation of birds and the environments they depend on. We offer field trips, educational programs, and community engagement throughout the Greater Everglades ecosystem.

www.auduboneverglades.org

Meet Your Guide: Expert birder and Avian Biologist Mike Baranski will be serving as the field guide for this stunning Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Mike boasts the title of the top eBirder for this WMA, having identified an impressive total of 148 species.

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