Big Hammock Natural Area

Big Hammock Natural Area and Wildlife Management Area is located along the northeast bank of the Altamaha River in Tattnall County. The WMA consists of 6,177 acres of primarily bottomland hardwoods with many oxbow lakes and sloughs.

The primary purpose of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) is to support wildlife conservation in the state and allow public access to hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreational activities at the bargain price of a WMA license or a Georgia Outdoor Recreational Pass, which ranges from $3.50 for a three-day pass to $20 for a year.

The Natural Area includes an adjoining 800-acre sand ridge with a variety of habitat types, ranging from a cypress/gum forest to a turkey oak/longleaf pine forest. The Natural Area is registered as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service because of its rare plants, animals, and unique qualities, including a large colony of the Georgia plume.

The sandhill formation found here was formed by depositions of sand from the Altamaha River. Although the WMA is comprised primarily of bottomland hardwood forest with oxbow lakes and sloughs, the natural area is a sand ridge that includes a variety of habitats such as cypress/gum forest and turkey oak-sand live oak forest. The natural area is host to several rare plants and animals.

Big Hammock has three boat ramps that provide access to the Altamaha and Ohoopees Rivers.

Camping is allowed. All camps must be in designated campgrounds, unless otherwise indicated or posted at the WMA check station. Camping or establishment of a campsite shall be limited to a period of time not to exceed 14 consecutive days unless the campsite is vacated and all personally owned property or physical features of the campsite are removed for a period of not less than seven days. A new campsite may not be re-established within one mile of the vacated campsite. Loaded firearms are prohibited in camping areas, except for those with a valid weapons carry license. Campers are responsible for their own trash.

Unless otherwise posted, fishing is allowed on WMAs according to statewide regulations. A WMA license is not required for anglers possessing a valid 1-day, Honorary/Disability, Sportsman or Lifetime License.

The trail system is largely un-maintained roads and limited foot paths. Those exploring off trails should take a map and compass.

Deer, turkey, small game, furbearers and alligators are among the animals hunted in the WMA. Contact Georgia DNR for more information, regulations and seasons.

Camping, pre-season scouting, hiking, picnicking, canoeing, and other recreational uses are allowed year-round, unless otherwise posted at the WMA check station or at a specific recreation site.

Driving Directions and Contact Informatomn
From Glennville: Take Hwy 144 south 12 miles to Altamaha River. Area lies on both sides of Hwy 144.

Call 229-426-5267 for more information