PLEASE NOTE: ACCESS TO PICA VIA THE MAIN GATE ON PINE ISLAND ROAD IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED, TO BOTH VEHICLES AND WALK-INS. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE STORMWATER PROJECT NECESSITATES THIS. THE MAIN GATE IS EXPECTED TO RE-OPEN MID-JUNE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE SAMS HOUSE (AT THE SOUTH END OF PICA- 6195 NORTH TROPICAL TRAIL) REMAINS OPEN THURSDAY-SATURDAY. CALL THE EEL OFFICE FOR MORE INFORMATION @ 321-255-4466 EXT. 27, D. SCOTT TAYLOR, LAND MANAGER.
This 1000-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
St Johns River Water Management District Size: 1322 acres
Activities: - Bicycling (on dirt roadways only)
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Fishing (lake, river)
- Hiking (1.3-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. In Sam's Creek, the west Indian manatee, bottlenose dolphin, alligator. Listed in State of Florida Great Florida Birding Trail for american wigeon, migratory blue-winged teal, migratory songbirds, waders, shorebirds, woodstork, and osprey.
ADA Access: Advance notice needed for special accommodations
Dos & Don'ts: - Horseback riding is prohibited in restored marsh areas.
- Take necessary precautions for mosquitos during summer months
- Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and hunting are prohibited
- Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife
- Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment