SANCTUARY recreation GUIDE
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Barrier Island Center Trail
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Situated in the heart of the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, the trail features examples of several barrier island habitats. The trail includes some raised boardwalk and winds through an active restoration area providing observation of a living laboratory of land management and restoration science. Much of this 40-acre sanctuary was heavily impacted by nonnative plant species such as Brazilian pepper and Australian pine trees in recent years. Now, with the majority of alien plant species removed, native habitats such as cabbage palm hammock, maritime hammock, saltmarsh, mangrove swamp, and the Indian River Lagoon are regaining a foothold and are viewable along the trail.
Donated to the EEL Program by the Richard King Mellon Foundation
Size: 40-acre
Management Region: South Beach
Location: On the barrier island west of A1A
8380 S Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach
Driving Directions Map
From US-192 (Melbourne Cswy) go 14 miles south on A1A. The Sanctuary is on the west side of A1A.
From Sebastian Inlet go 3 miles north on A1A. Parking is available just south of the Sanctuary at Bonsteel Park on the east side of A1A.
Activities:
•Fishing
•Hiking (0.6 mile trail)
•Wildlife Observation

Habitats: dune, coastal strand, maritime hammock, and mangrove forest
Wildlife: roseate spoonbil,l osprey, alligator, bobcat, screech owl, giant land crab
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts:
1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Buck Lake Conservation Area
Open 24 hours a day. Restricted during Hunting Season.
The Buck Lake Conservation Area includes 9,638 acres of woodlands and wetlands historically used for timber production and cattle ranching. The EEL Program manages about 300 acres of upland scrubby flatwoods and oak hammock in a partnership with the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRMWD). Other community types include basin swamps, wet prairies, floodplain marshes, and a marsh lake. Along the trails, visitors can observe the variety of protected natural communities that support many species of plant and animal.
Acquired and managed in partnership with SJRWMD
Size: 9,638 acres
Management Region: North
Location: Northwest Brevard County
2725 Blake Lee Trail, Mims
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 take Exit-223 west on SR-46. Three parking areas are accessed on the north side of SR-46. Each from I-95: first entrance .75 miles; second entrance 6.5 miles; third entrance 10 miles then right on Morgan Alderman Road for 0.25 mile to entrance on right. A boat ramp is located 3.5 miles west of I-95 on SR-46 at Six Mile Creek.
For more info on this site contact the Water Management District at (904) 329- 4500 or www.sjrwmd.com
Activities:
•Bicycle Trail
•Fishing (lake, river)
•Hiking (12 miles of trails)
•Horseback Riding Trail
•Primitive Camping (posted sites)
•Seasonal Hunting
•Wildlife Observation
Habitats: Over 9,000 acres include scrubby flatwoods, oak hammock, basin swamps, wet prairies, floodplain marshes, and marsh lakes
Wildlife: gopher Tortoise, otter, deer, bobcat, alligator, fox; Listed in State of Florida Great Florida Birding Trail—migratory songbirds, Florida Scrub-jay, Eastern bluebird, blue grosbeak, woodpecker, turkey, also owwl, bald eagle, waders
ADA Access:
Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts:
1) No motorized vehicles allowed on property, except as authorized during hunting season. Off-road vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain or track vehicles, are not allowed on property. 2) Camping is prohibited during periods open to hunting. 3) Firearms, except with valid permit during hunting season are prohibited. 4) Trapping devises, pets, alcohol, and smoking are prohibited. 5) Removal of plants, animals, archeological or cultural resources is prohibited. 6) Stay on trails for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Coconut Point Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
The 62-acre habitat of coastal strand, oak scrub, coastal oak forest, and mangrove forest at the Coconut Point Sanctuary rolls over ancient sand dunes from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River Lagoon. Early Native Americans, known as the Ais Indians, once lived along the shores of the Indian River Lagoon in this area and ate native plants, shellfish, birds, and fish. It was also near this site that historians believe Juan Ponce de Leon set foot in Florida in 1513. Along the hiking trail is an observation platform over the Indian River Lagoon--an ideal spot to view wading and shorebirds, soaring osprey, and the occasional pod of dolphin. Although they are hard to see, juvenile sea turtles also swim in the Indian River Lagoon and feed among the sea grasses growing here.

Acquired in partnership with the State of Florida

Size: 62-acres
Management Region: South Beach
Location: On the barrier island west of A1A
4000 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach
Driving Directions Map
From US-192 (Melbourne Cswy) go south 6.1 miles on A1A. The first trailhead is on the west side of A1A, 0.25 mile south of the Publix shopping plaza, a second trailhead is a few hundred yards further south. Park in the Publix shopping plaza. A bike rack is located at the southern trailhead.
Activities:
•Hiking (.75-mile trail)
•Wildlife Observation

Habitats: coastal strand, oak scrub, coastal oak forest, and mangrove swamp
Wildlife: wading birds, shorebirds, osprey, Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, Eastern indigo snake, sea turtle, dolphin
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts:
1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Dicerandra Scrub Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
This 44-acre Sanctuary is named after an endangered mint plant, Dicerandra thinicola, also known as Titusville mint. This beautiful shrub has bright purple flowers and is endemic to the Titusville area, which means it is found nowhere else in the world. The Sanctuary also protects scrub, scrubby flatwoods, and depression marshes with the hiking trail leading through the scrubby flatwoods and marsh habitats.
Size: 44 acres
Management Region: North
Location: South Titusville
Melissa Drive, Titusville
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 take SR-50 Exit 215 east 3 miles. Turn right on Key Largo Drive, go 0.4 miles and turn right on Karen Drive. Go less than 0.1 mile, turn right and go to the end of Melissa Drive. Enter on foot.
From US-Hwy 1 go west 0.7 miles on SR-50. Turn left on Key Largo Drive—follow directions above. Bike rack provided. Parking is not available.
Activities:
•Hiking (1-mile trail)
•Wildlife Observation

Habitats scrub, scrubby flatwoods, and depression marshes
Wildlife: Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, eastern indigo snake
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Enchanted Forest Sanctuary
Management & Education Center

Tuesday-Sunday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; Sunday: 1:00-5:00 p.m.; Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day

The EEL Program's first Management & Education Center
This 428-acre sanctuary is the flagship of the EEL Program and was purchased because of its unique geology and high biological diversity. The sanctuary is one of the few places in Brevard where visitors can experience majestic oak hammocks, wetlands, and the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in one short hike. The Enchanted Forest Management and Education Center is a modern educational facility complete with classrooms, an interactive exhibit room, a library, offices, restrooms, and a gift shop. Hiking through any number of trails at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary may bring you in sight of Florida scrub lizards, green anoles, gopher tortoises, bobcats, woodpeckers, and a variety of butterflies. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is also rich in local history. Cultural features such as the Addison/Ellis Canal and the Hernandez-Capron Trail tell the story of Brevard County’s past.
Size: 428 acres
Management Region: North
Location: Just south of the City of Titusville
444 Columbia Boulevard, Titusville
321-264-5185
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 southbound take SR-50 to first light, turn right and go east 4 miles on SR-405. The Sanctuary entrance is on the north side of SR-405 across from the Space Coast Regional Airport.
From I-95 northbound take SR-407 north to SR-405 and go east through two lights. The entrance is on the north side of SR-405, 0.25 miles past the second light. From US Hwy the entrance is 0.5 miles west of US Hwy 1 on SR-405.
Activities: Hiking trails including a stabilized trail and boardwalks over wetlands, wildlife observation, Management & Education Center
•Education Center
- Gift Shop
- Interactive Exhibit
- Science Exploration Room
- Art Exhibit
- Library and Classroom
•Events
- Earth Day
- Environmental Education
- Monthly Sunday Fundays
•Guided Walks
•Hiking (4.1 miles of trails)
•Wildlife Observation
Habitats: scrub, mesic hammock, hydric hammock, wet prairie, and pine flatwoods
Wildlife: Florida scrub lizard, white-tailed deer, eastern indigo snake, gopher tortoise, bobcat, pileated woodpecker, butterflies, wild turkey
ADA Accessible: parking, restrooms, amphitheater, paved nature trail, guided electric cart tour, Management and Education Center with interactive exhibit room, drinking fountains
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Climbing rocks at the Forest is prohibited. 2) Eat food in the picnic area only and put all trash in receptacles. 3) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 4) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 5) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 6) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Helen and Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Visitors to the Cruickshank Sanctuary can hike the trail on the western portion of the 140-acre sanctuary. This trail winds through pine flatwoods habitat where raptors may be circling overhead or perched in high pine trees. Patches of oak, sand pine scrub, and freshwater depression marshes add to the Sanctuary's diversity.
Acquired in partnership with the State of Florida
Size: 140 acres
Management Region:
Central
Location:
Central Rockledge just west of US Highway 1
360 Barnes Boulevard, Rockledge
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 take Fiske Blvd Exit 195. At the intersection just north of I-95, go east on Barnes Boulevard 2.4 miles to the Sanctuary entrance on the north sideof the road.
From US-1 1 turn west onto Barnes Blvd and travel 0.5 miles. The Sanctuary entrance is on the north side of the road. Bike rack provided. Parking is not available.
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Activities:
•Nature Trail (1-mile)
•Wildlife Observation

Habitats:
pine flatwoods and scrub
Wildlife: migratory birds, Florida Scrub-jay, bobwhite quail, raptors, gopher tortoise, Eastern indigo snake, bobcat
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.
Brochure: Cruickshank Sanctuary Brochure (750KB--PDF)

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Jordan Scrub Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
This 354-acre sanctuary encompasses a variety of habitat types including seasonal marshes, scrubby flatwoods, and lakes. While hiking through these diverse habitats, bald eagles can be spotted fishing for lunch in the lake and local scrub-jays seen foraging in the scrubby flatwoods. Recreational planning for the Jordan Scrub Sanctuary recently commenced—additional trails are planned for future development.
Acquired in partnership with the State of Florida
Size: 354 acres
Management Region: South
Location: Town of Malabar
Marie Street, Malabar
Driving Directions
Map
From US-1 go west on Malabar Road for 0.5 miles and turn left onto Marie Street for 0.9 miles. When the paved road ends, continue to the Sanctuary gate and kiosk.
From I-95 take SR-514 Exit-173 east onto Malabar Road. Go 3.6 miles and turn right on Marie Street (3 miles past the fire station)
and go 0.9 miles. When the paved road ends, continue to the Sanctuary gate and kiosk. Bike rack provided. Parking is not available.
:
Activities:
•Bicycle Trail
•Horseback Riding Trail
•Hiking Trail
•Wildlife Observation
Habitats: seasonal marshes, scrubby flatwoods, and lakes
Wildlife: Florida scrub-jay, bobcat, wood stork, bald eagle, osprey, gopher tortoise
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Malabar Scrub Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Future home of the South Region Management and Education Center, the variety of habitats found on the 395-acre Malabar Scrub Sanctuary make it an ideal place for visitors to learn how wetland and upland communities interact. The protected habitats include xeric (dry) hammock, scrub, scrubby flatwoods, pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub, ponds, sloughs, and depression marshes. Trails weave through many of these natural communities, including several areas recently treated with prescribed fires. Fire is a natural factor in many of Florida’s ecosystems, and hikers will be amazed at the lush, green regrowth in areas that were burned only a short time ago. The sanctuary is a refuge for the Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, and Eastern indigo snake. All these species benefit from controlled burns. Restrooms are available at the adjacent Malabar Community Park.
Size: 395 acres
Management Region: South
Location: Town of Malabar
Malabar Road, Malabar
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 take Exit-173 Malabar Rd SR-514 and go east on Malabar Road about 2 miles. The Sanctuary sign is on the north side of the road just past the Malabar Fire Dept. There is stabilized parking at the trailhead.
From US Hwy 1 take Malabar Road west for 1 mile and look for the Malabar Scrub Sanctuary sign on your right—if you pass the fire station you've gone too far.
Activities:
•Bicycle Trail
•Hiking Trails
•Horseback Riding Trail
•Wildlife Observation
Habitats: xeric (dry) hammock, scrub, scrubby flatwoods, pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub, ponds, sloughs, and depression marshes
Wildlife: gopher tortoise, river otter, bobcat; Listed in State of Florida Great Florida Birding Trail—Florida scrub-jay, great horned owl, migratory songbirds, pileated woodpecker, sandhill crane, sparrow, Eastern towee
ADA Access: A paved road into the Sanctuary is located adjacent to main entrance trailhead
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Maritime Hammock Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
On the barrier island west of A1A, the 150-acre Maritime Hammock Sanctuary is in the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. The sanctuary features a hiking trail with 2 bridges, boardwalk over wetland areas, and an observation deck over a marsh pond. Visitors experience a variety of protected barrier island habitats: coastal strand, maritime hammock, and mangrove forests. A portion of this sanctuary was once the site of an exotic plant nursery. Many of the nonnative plants that were grown at the nursery, such as Madagascar periwinkle and asparagus fern have escaped into the hammock. An intensive nonnative invasive plant removal project is underway.

Acquired in partnership with the State of Florida

Size: 150 acres
Management Region: South Beach
Location: On the barrier island west of A1A
6200 S Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach
Driving Directions Map
From US-192 (Melbourne Cswy) go south 10.3 miles on A1A. There are two trailheads on the west side of A1A. One trailhead is north of the Mark's Landing development, and the other is a few hundred yards to the south. Parking is available at the north trailhead.
Activities:
• Hiking (2-mile trail)
• Wildlife Observation
Habitats: coastal strand, maritime hammock, hydric hammock, and mangrove forest
Wildlife: roseate spoonbill, osprey, screech owl, wading birds, migratory birds, bobcat, raccoon, otter, gopher tortoise, alligator, giant land crab, and dolphin in the Indian River Lagoon
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Micco Scrub Sanctuary
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
The Micco Scrub Sanctuary protects 1322 acres of Brevard’s remaining scrubby flatwoods and mesic flatwoods habitat. This mosaic of seasonal marshes and dry flatwoods shelters many indigenous species of plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the county. The long trails running through the Micco Scrub Sanctuary give hikers many chances to spot wildlife.
Acquired in partnership with the State of Florida

Size: 1322 acres
Management Region: South
Location: North and south of Micco Road between Babcock and I-95
500 Micco Road, Malabar
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 take the Malabar Road Exit-(FL-514) east and turn right on Babcock Street. Go south about 7 miles. Turn left on Micco Road and go about .75 mile east. Look for fenced, grassy parking area on the left.
From US Hwy 1 go west on Micco Road 6.3 miles. Look for grassy parking area on the right.
Activities:
•Bicycle Trail
•Horseback Riding Trail
•Hiking Trail
•Wildlife Observation
Habitats: seasonal marshes, scrubby flatwoods and mesic flatwoods
Wildlife: Florida scrub-jay, swallow-tailed kite, wading birds, scrub lizard, gopher tortoise, diamondback rattlesnake, Eastern indigo snake, white-tailed deer, Eastern cottontail rabbit
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 2) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 3) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 4) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Pine Island Conservation Area
October-April: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., May-September: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
This 879-acre conservation area provides access to 2 trails at the trailhead 0.5 mile from main entrance. These moderate walks lead through pine flatwoods and hydric hammock habitats. Hikers will also see cabbage palm hammocks and hardwood hammocks, with mangrove forests and marshes fringing the Indian River Lagoon. The interior marsh ponds and borrow lakes make great spots for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Two canoe trails invite a relaxing way for visitors to observe area wildlife. Cycling is permitted on the established roads and bike trails only. Please do not ride bikes on hiking trails.
Acquired and managed in partnership with SJRWMD
Size: 879 acres
Management Region: Central
Location: North Merritt Island on the eastern shore of the Indian River Lagoon
2121 Pine Island Road, Merritt Island
Driving Directions Map
From SR-528 (Beeline Cswy) take SR-3 north for 5.5 miles. Turn left on Pine Island Rd and go 2.5 miles to the unpaved parking area at the entrance.
From SR-520 go north on Courtenay Parkway (SR-3) across the Barge Canal and continue for 5.5 miles. Turn left on Pine Island Rd and go 2.5 miles to the unpaved parking area at the entrance.
Activities:
•Bicycling (on dirt roadways only)
•Horseback Riding Trails
•Fishing (lake, river)
•Hiking (1.0-mile trail, 1.5-mile trail)
•Paddling (2.3-mile loop, 3.0-mile run)
•Wildlife Observation
Habitats: pine flatwoods, cabbage palm hammocks, hardwood hammocks, mangrove forests, and salt marshes
Wildlife: gopher tortoise, bobcat, Eastern indigo snake; Sam’s Creek—West Indian manatee, bottlenose dolphin, alligator; Listed in State of Florida Great Florida Birding Trail—American wigeon, migratory blue-winged teal, migratory songbirds, waders, shorebirds, woodstork, osprey
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Horseback riding is prohibited in restored marsh areas. 2) Use caution around alligators. 3) Take necessary precautions for mosquitos during summer months. 4) Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and firearms are prohibited. 5) Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited. 6) Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife. 7) Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment.

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Turkey Creek Sanctuary
Trails open 7 days a week 7:00 a.m. to sunset. Nature Center open approximately 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Acquired and managed by the City of Palm Bay, the Audubon Society, and the EEL Program, a boardwalk nature trail, and jogging trails wind through the 130-acre sanctuary. The boardwalk trail passes through hydric (wet) hammock, mesic (moist) hammock, and sand pine scrub communities, and much of it overlooks Turkey Creek. The sanctuary can also be accessed by canoe or kayak. The Margaret Hames Nature Center provides interpretive exhibits, a gift shop, and restrooms.

Acquired and managed in partnership with the City of Palm Bay

Size: 130 acres
Management Region: South
Location: City of Palm Bay
1502 Port Malabar Boulevard, NE, Palm Bay
321-952-3433
Driving Directions Map
From I-95 take Exit-176 onto Palm Bay Road heading east. Turn south onto Babcock Street then east onto Port Malabar Blvd. Continue east 1 mile to the Palm Bay Community Center. Turn right at the Turkey Creek sign into the Palm Bay Library parking lot.
From US Hwy 1 take Port Malabar Blvd west for 2 miles. Turn left at the Turkey Creek sign into the Palm Bay Library parking lot.
Activities:
•Boardwalk (1.85-miles)
•Jogging Trail with Exercise Stations (1.5-miles)
•Margaret Hames Nature Center
•Nature Center
•Nature Tours
•Paddling
•Wildlife Observation
For more information contact the City of Palm Bay Recreation at 321-255-4608 or website.
Habitats: Roughly 130 acres include hydric hammock, mesic hammock, sand pine scrub, and Turkey Creek
Wildlife: box turtle, alligator, Eastern indigo Snake, West Indian manatee, river otter, gopher tortoise, spotted skunk, raccoon, opossum, endangered Florida mouse; Listed in State of Florida Great Florida Birding Trail—Warbler species; also Osprey, Duck, Waders, pileated woodpecker
ADA Accessible: parking, nature center, boardwalk, paved ealkway
Dos & Don'ts: 1) Service animals only. 2) No bikes, alcohol or smoking. 3) No removal of plants. 4) Please don’t disturb the animals. 5) Other restrictions as posted.


Last Revised September 27, 2007