Saint Sebastian River Preserve State Park covers nearly 22,000 acres of protected land in Florida. The area was historically used for cattle ranching, citrus farming, turpentining, and logging. The state began acquiring land in 1995 to preserve its diverse habitats, including pine flatwoods, cypress domes, scrub, sandhills, and a mangrove-lined river. More than 74 protected species live within the park.
The park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Visitors can see red-cockaded woodpeckers, Florida scrub jays, Bachman’s sparrows, and bald eagles. Swallow-tailed kites, hawks, and hummingbirds migrate through the area. Manatees gather in the C-54 canal from November through March. Other wildlife includes deer, bobcats, coyotes, wild turkeys, and gopher tortoises.
The park offers also 60 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Canoeing and boating are popular on the St. Sebastian River. Fishing opportunities include tarpon, snook, bass, and mullet. Facilities also include three picnic areas with tables, grills, and pavilions. Primitive camping is available by reservation, with nine hike-in sites and two equestrian camp areas.
Yes, the parking area in the park is enough for bigger vehicles such as RVs.
Read on about more things to do, see, and enjoy on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
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