Joe's River Park

Joe’s River Park is located on Hutchinson Island and provides public access to the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America. The park sits along the water’s edge and offers a quiet setting for fishing, wildlife observation, and small-craft launching. It was established in honor of Joseph Frances O’Mara, whose family donated part of the land to preserve the area for public enjoyment.

Visitors can use the boardwalk, which leads to a fishing and kayak launch area. The boardwalk passes through stands of red mangroves and gives access to views of the lagoon’s fish, birds, and plant communities. A small picnic shelter with a grill and table is available, and it supports simple cookouts or a packed lunch. The parking area holds about ten vehicles, and the park remains easy to access for short visits.

In addition, this Martin County park functions as a low-impact recreation site, attracting anglers, nature photographers, and those seeking a quiet place along the lagoon. The surrounding mangroves and shoreline offer opportunities to observe local wildlife with minimal disturbance.