Part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, the Shired Island Boat Ramp & Trail provide access to the Gulf, shoreline fishing, and a short trail to a 7,000 year-old archaeology site. You’ll want to bring your camera.For anglers without vessels, the ample sea wall provides plenty of shore-fishing opportunities. There are no nearby stores or tackle shops, so come prepared.

After enjoying the walk out to the point, you’ll see millions and millions of sun-bleached shells. Ancient cultures of fishing people discarded their meal debris (oysters, clams, scallops, fishbones, etc) where they ate. Millennia of this accumulation gave height to the island that was once merely a mudflat at the edge of the Gulf.

Please, stay on the beach and leave the island interior to the wildlife. Enjoy a day of discovery at your National Wildlife Refuge

The boat launch is a popular spot for setting off in kayaks or canoes to explore nearby creeks and estuaries. Smooth, calms waters are prevalent, and you’re likely to spot plenty of wildlife, such as sea turtles, hawks, jumping mullet and more.

The Dixie County Shired Island Campground and coastal areas in this corner of Northwest Florida are a rare treasure. You’ll find nothing but tranquility here. Quaint towns dot the landscape here, and the pristine waters and undeveloped landscape will give you a glimpse into what this area was like 1,000 years ago. Don’t be fooled, however: This secluded coastline still features fresh- and saltwater fishing, boating, birding and plenty of places to get wet. Although this area doesn’t offer long stretches of sand like many other Florida coastal communities, beaches