2021 Map of Sanderson NW

About this map

Osceola National Forest encompasses the vast majority of this landscape along the border of Columbia and Baker Counties, defined by a complex network of wetlands and wooded "islands." The interior terrain is dominated by significant swamp systems, including Rinhook Swamp to the north and the extensive Buckhead Swamp to the south. These are punctuated by curiously named upland features such as Negro Camp Island and Clay Hole Island, which historically provided slightly higher ground within the waterlogged basin. A primitive road network, including Sand Mill Rd and Old Sand Hill Rd, provides the only terrestrial access through this protected timber and wildlife area. Localized depressions form distinct bodies of water like Buck Island Lake and several "bays"—low-lying boggy areas—such as Impassable Bay and Little Bear Bay, illustrating the hydrologic character of the Florida panhandle's interior flatwoods.