Captain Forster Hammock Preserve is a 110-acre conservation area managed by Indian River County since 1994. Named after Captain Frank Forster, an early settler who farmed citrus and vegetables in the area, the preserve protects one of the last mature maritime hammocks in the county. It includes six natural communities, such as hydric hammock, depression marsh, tidal mangrove swamp, and coastal strand.
Located one mile south of County Road 510 on Historic Jungle Trail, the preserve features a one-mile walking trail through a diverse habitat. Large live oaks host wild butterfly orchids and native bromeliads. Migrating songbirds, including common yellow-throats and black-and-white warblers, use the area as a stopover.
Amenities include a parking area, restrooms, benches, educational signage, and a riverfront dock with a fishing area. Visitors must access the preserve from Jungle Trail. Bicycles, camping, overnight parking, and alcohol are prohibited. Dogs are allowed but they must be leashed. Hunting, fishing, or removing plants and other natural resources is also not allowed.
Read on about more things to do, see, and enjoy on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
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