Top 10 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Fort Pierce, Florida (FL)

Comprised of 20 acres overlooking the Indian River Lagoon and beautiful spoil islands, this is a favorite spot for fishermen casting their lines.

Overlooking the Indian River Lagoon, this 33-acre site contains many threatened and endangered species of plants that are found only in this scrub. A half- mile self-guided interpretive trail leads visitors through the site.

Visitors to this 27-acre oasis can launch their kayaks/canoes into the Indian River Lagoon or fish from the piers. Covered pavilions and grills are also on site.

Named after noted local environmental activist John Brooks, this 226-acre upland and wetland preserve features two miles of beachfront dunes and seashore fishing, and has one wooden ramped dune-crossover with covered viewing area.

Purchased to protect the savannahs wetland system, this site features three miles of trails that cover the 297-acre site, including an observation tower and a fishing pier. The 35-acre lake is designated as a “catch-and-release” area and contains a kayak/canoe launch. Part of the statewide "Great Florida Birding Trail," the site provides excellent opportunities for wildlife watching.

MOEC is an ideal place to learn more about the Treasure Coast's unique environment and its inhabitants, including the threatened Florida manatee. Inside you'll find an educational film (with closed-captioning), various aquariums, a touch-tank and interactive displays - all of which are enhanced by wonderful volunteers. Eco-boat tours are available along with a wildlife observation tower which provides visitors a bird's-eye-view of the Indian River Lagoon. MOEC is situated at the mouth of Moore's Creek which is a popular spot to see visiting manatees during colder months. There are 400-500 manatees living in our area year-round but, considering their backyard is 156 miles long and connected to a multitude of creeks and canals, it is never guaranteed that they will be visiting the Center at any given time. Please feel free to call ahead in advance to ask whether manatees are present. MOEC is supported by donations, memberships and the proceeds from its gift shop The Vanishing Mermaid.

This wetland preserve encompasses 37 acres and features a shoreline trail, a 125-foot fishing pier and canoe/kayak access to the Indian River Lagoon and the perfect opportunity to paddle past manatees or to cast a line and catch Snook or Tarpon.

This beautiful hammock, located along the Indian River Lagoon, contains some very old Live Oak and Cabbage Palm. Local historians claim this 70-acre site was the location of the 1849 Russell/Barker skirmish, which led to the Third Seminole War. Two short interpretive trails wind through the site. It also features a beginner's disc golf course.

The location of the last recorded Native American Black Bear hunt on Hutchinson Island, this wetland preserve encompasses more than 13 acres and features a one-mile trail, an elevated observation platform, picnic tables, kayak launch and one 450-foot fishing pier. Part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, the site is lined with several small wooden docks and natural banks great for fishing.