Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park

Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park spans 4,886 acres, offering a secluded natural landscape within an urban setting. The preserve consists mainly of wet flatwoods and wet prairies, gradually sloping west toward the South Fork of the St. Lucie River. It provides habitat for native wildlife, including herons, egrets, Florida sandhill cranes, and wood storks. Visitors may also spot bald eagles and red-shouldered hawks overhead.

The preserve features 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The land, once altered for agriculture, still bears remnants of drainage ditches and canals. These modifications disrupted the natural water flow, affecting native plants and wildlife. Restoration efforts will eventually restore the hydrology by filling canals, removing invasive species like melaleuca and Brazilian pepper, and reintroducing native vegetation.

Sabal palms, live oaks, and saw palmetto dominate the landscape, creating a tropical environment along the river’s edge. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide critical wildlife habitats while offering visitors a peaceful retreat. Located between U.S. 1 and the St. Lucie River, the preserve remains a vital conservation area in South Florida.

Access to the preserve is restricted. Visitors must contact Jonathan Dickinson State Park at 772-546-2771 for the gate code.