Great Florida Birding Trail Map - East Florida

EAST SECTION
T The Great Florida Birding Trail

The
G reat
is a project of the
Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission.
n g Tr a
Floridail
d i
Bir
Birding Trail
I In partnership with :
Wildlife o
em e r a t i v e
Foundation
m
om G u i d
of Florida
U.S. Fish
C
and Wildlife
Service
Florida State
Parks
Florida Department of
Transportation
U.S. Department of
Transportation
Federal Highway
Administration
Florida Fish and Wildlife

Rev. 6/02 Printed on recycled paper Conservation Commission
Gannet Cluster
1
Map
Gannet Cluster
1
1 Ft. Clinch State Park Gateway *
A great introduction to Florida's bird species and
habitats; check the entrance road's hammock and
marsh for warblers, waders, wrens and sparrows.
Watch for painted buntings in spring/summer. Check
pier for seabirds, and purple sandpipers and gannets
in winter.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, go E from exit #373 10 mi.

to Fernandina Beach. A1A becomes 8th St. Continue
3 mi. to Atlantic Ave. Turn right (E) on Atlantic Ave.;
park is 2 mi. on left (N). A1A S begins again at
intersection with S. Fletcher Ave., E of Ft. Clinch.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 277-7274

www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
J F M A M J J A S O N D
* See “Gateways” on page 34 for more information

2 The Nature Center at Amelia Island
This nature center provides great educational
programs, including birdwatching classes and nature
adventures. Call ahead for a schedule or reservations.
Night-herons, shorebirds, painted buntings, and terns
and gulls are possible sightings.
DIRECTIONS: Located 9 mi. S of Fernandina Beach

on the E side of A1A prior to crossing the Nassau
Sound Bridge. Watch for signs directing to the
“Reception Center and Village Shops,” prior to security
gate. Wooden bench and totem pole mark Nature
Center’s entrance.
Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (904) 321-5082

www.aipfl.com
YEAR-ROUND
Map 1 - Gannet Cluster
2
Gannet Cluster
3 Amelia Island State Park 7 Cedar Point

Worth a peek for shorebirds on the beach. From the catwalk on the Gorgeous maritime hammock, salt marsh, scrubby flatwoods and
bridge over Nassau Sound, you can view sand bars and islands in freshwater wetlands are a songbird migrant mecca spring and fall.
the sound and look for cormorants, pelicans and migratory shore- Boat basin, on E side of the road, offers rails and shore and wading
birds at low tide. birds.
DIRECTIONS: This park is on the S tip of Amelia Island, on the DIRECTIONS: In Jacksonville, take Hecksher Dr. E to New Berlin
E side of SR A1A. Rd. Turn left (N) and follow New Berlin Rd. to Cedar Point Rd. Turn
right (E) and follow Cedar Point Rd. 7 mi. to the park at the end.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 251-2320
www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 241-3537 www.nps.gov
J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D
4 Big Talbot Island State Park 8 Kingsley Plantation

Check wetlands at N tip of park for shorebirds and rails. Further S, Good viewing of migrating spring and fall songbirds. Expect
on the E side of the road, on the Bluffs and Blackrock Trail, check warblers galore, plus wading birds, shorebirds and raptors. Visitor
for songbirds in spring and fall, painted buntings in spring/summer. center details the site's cultural history.
Scope the beach for shorebirds. Maps available at Little Talbot
Island State Park. DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take Hecksher Dr. E 17
mi. Ft. George Island is on left (N) side of the road 0.5 mi. past St.
DIRECTIONS: Located on A1A just south of Amelia Island. Johns River Ferry Landing, prior to Little Talbot Island State Park.
Sign says "Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve."
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 251-2320
www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 251-3537 www.nps.gov
YEAR-ROUND
5 Little Talbot Island State Park

9 Ft. George Island Cultural State Park
Good place to pick up area bird lists and maps. The N point hiking
trail harbors buntings, songbirds, skimmers and oystercatchers, Hammock loop road good in fall and spring for migrant songbirds,
7 sandpiper species, 4 plover species, marbled godwits and long- painted buntings in spring/summer. The salt marsh is home to
billed curlews. Jaegers and gannets offshore in winter. wading birds, and shorebirds loaf on exposed mud flats in the pass.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take exit 358A (Hecksher DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take exit 358A (Hecksher
Drive) E across Ft. George Inlet. Site is 3 mi. on right, on A1A S of Dr.) E 18 mi. Ft. George Island is on left (N) side of the road. Veer
Amelia Island. right on loop road to clubhouse for maps and trail guides.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 251-2320 Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 251-2320
www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
6 E. Dale Joyner Nature Preserve at Pelotes 10 Huguenot Memorial Park

Island Park includes a critical wildlife area for nesting terns and shore-
Access only by group tour, by appointment. Free programs range birds, and often hosts rarities, like bar-tailed godwits. North side of
from birding to Native American history; individuals may ask to join peninsula is good for waders, shorebirds and ducks; around the tip,
previously-scheduled programs. The island's maritime hammock, watch for terns and gulls. Scope for gannets, loons and sea ducks.
salt marsh and high caliber programming make it a great intro for
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take Hecksher Dr. E
beginning birders.
17 mi. Site is on right (S) side of road.
DIRECTIONS: Given upon confirmation of appointment.
Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (summers, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)
Hours by appointment. (904) 665-8856 (904) 251-3335 www.coj.net/fun
3
Gannet Cluster / St. Mary’s Cluster
11 Ft. Caroline National Memorial and Theodore

Roosevelt Area Map
St. Mary’s Cluster
Theodore Roosevelt Area's trails wind through maritime hammock
out to the salt marsh overlook. A fabulous site for migratory song-
birds. Ft. Caroline visitor center has maps and exhibits.
2
DIRECTIONS: South of the river, E of Jacksonville, take SR 10
E to Monument Rd. Turn left (N) on Monument Rd. until it ends 13 Ralph Simmons State Forest
at Ft. Caroline Rd. Turn right (E). Veer left on Ft. Caroline Rd. to Rustic hiking through sandhills and slope forests, to the St. Mary's
visitor center, or right on Mt. Pleasant Rd. to reach the Theodore River. Maps at trailhead on Penny Haddock Rd. Another trailhead,
Roosevelt Area Trail. 1 mi. further on the left, leads 3 mi. to the river. You may see
sparrows, turkeys, and finally, waterbirds at the river. Rent canoes
Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 641-7155 www.nps.gov
on US 1 and bird the river.
J F M A M J J A S O N D DIRECTIONS: From Hilliard in W Nassau Co., take US 1/ SR 301
N 6 mi. to Boulogne. Turn right (E) on Lake Hampton Rd. Drive
2 mi. to Penny Haddock Rd. and turn left (N). Site is on left (W)
12 Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park side of road.
Pick up a bird list and map at the entrance, and park just beyond it. Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 693-5055
Walk S to finger lakes to see wading birds, anhingas, and water-
fowl. Trails NE of the parking lot host songbirds and owls. Beach
access #9 has a binocular scope to help you scan the ocean for * J F M A M J J A S O N D
gannets and sea ducks.
* area closed to birders during hunting season
DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 in Jacksonville to SR 10 (Atlantic Blvd.).
Drive E to Mayport Rd. (A1A). Turn left (N) on Mayport Rd. and
veer right on SR 101 when it diverges from A1A. Turn right (E)
on Wonderwood Dr.
Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (summers, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)
(904) 249-4700
2
Map 2 - St. Mary’s Cluster
4
Kestrel Cluster
Map
3 3
Kestrel Cluster
14 Jennings State Forest

Stop at the North Fork Black Creek trail for a trail guide.
Watch for woodpeckers and brown-headed nuthatches;
powerline viewing tower at the road's end is good for
Bachman's sparrows, kestrels and bluebirds. Call ahead
for hunt dates, closures and guided birding walks.
DIRECTIONS: Take SR 21 SE 6 mi. from Orange Park.

Turn right (W) on Old Jennings Rd. (220A). Turn N on
Live Oak Ln. Trailheads on left (W) side of road.
Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 291-5530

www.fl-dof.com/
15 Gold Head Branch State Park
Unique ravine is haven to migratory songbirds in season,

including tanagers, thrushes and warblers. Eagles are
common. Turkeys and bobwhites feed in the morning
along the entrance road. Check the lake for wading
birds, ducks and terns. Owls prowl the campground at
night.
DIRECTIONS: From Keystone Heights take SR 21 NE

6 mi. Park is on right (E) side of road.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 473-4701

YEAR-ROUND
Map 3 - Kestrel Cluster
5
Painted Bunting Cluster
Map
4 4 Painted Bunting Cluster
16 Guana River Wildlife Management

Area
Twelve miles of rustic trails through flatwoods, hammocks,
scrub and wetlands. Overlooks offer ducks, egrets and
spoonbills. During hunts on Thurs.-Sun., Oct.- Jan., birders
may drive in. Otherwise, park and hike/bike, veering right on
the W side of the dam; heading N into the site.
DIRECTIONS: From St. Augustine, take SR A1A N through

Vilano Beach. Site is 8 mi. N, on left (W) side of the road.
Enter through state park, park on dam, and hike across dam,
N into site.
17 Guana River State Park

View peregrine falcon migration from tower on the beach side
of A1A during the first 2 weeks of Oct. At the dam entrance,
bird for shorebirds, rails, ducks and loons. Bobolinks like the
fallow area leading to hiking trails in fall and spring, when
hammocks are thick with songbirds.
DIRECTIONS: From St. Augustine, take SR A1A N through

Vilano Beach. Site is 8 mi. N, on both sides of the road.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 825-5071

YEAR-ROUND
18 St. Augustine Alligator Farm

Egrets, wood storks and tri-colored herons have long nested
above the American alligators at this site. Boardwalks wind
through the rookery, giving an up-close look at adults, chicks
and nests. Great for photographers. Breeding peaks April-
July.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 16 (exit #318) and

drive E 7 mi. to SR A1A. Turn right on A1A and cross onto
Anastasia Island. Site is 1.5 mi. ahead on right (W) side of
Map 4 - Painted Bunting Cluster the road.
Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (904) 824-3337

www.alligatorfarm.com
6
Painted Bunting Cluster
19 Anastasia State Park 22 Princess Place Preserve

Bird the salt run for wading birds and rails, then hike the maritime Watch for turkeys by the roadside; take the first trail on left through
hammock trail, looking for painted buntings in spring/summer and upland habitats (watch for raptors and woodpeckers) and freshwa-
migrating warblers in April and Oct. The beach offers terns, gulls, ter marsh; second trail on left includes saltwater marsh. Blue trail
sandpipers and plovers; scope offshore for sea ducks, loons and winds through flatwoods and along Pellicer Creek. When road
gannets. reaches creek bear to the right to the green trail (good songbird
habitat). Great egrets and blue herons nest spring/summer around
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 207. Take SR 207 E to CR fountain.
312. Turn right (E) on CR 312 and proceed to SR A1A. Turn left (N)
on SR A1A. The park is approx. 2 mi. N of this intersection on the DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US1 and I-95 (exit #278), drive
right (E) side of the road. S 2 mi. to Old Kings Rd. Turn left (E) and go 1.5 mi. to Princess
Place Rd. Turn left (NE) and drive approx. 2 mi. into the preserve.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 461-2000
www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ Open Wed.- Sun., 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (904) 446-7490
YEAR-ROUND J F M A M J J A S O N D
20 Ft. Matanzas National Monument 23 Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

From the beach entrance, bird the inlet for plovers and sandpipers, Check beach for shorebirds, and offshore for loons, grebes, sea
and the river for ducks and grebes. On the ocean side, watch for ducks and gannets. Beach is also good for fall raptor migration,
terns, gulls and gannets. The visitor center has maps, a bird list and Sept.-Oct. On the river side, bird the scrub or hammock trails, or
a boardwalk trail. road edges for migrants in season. Riverfront can be good for
shorebirds, gulls, terns and waders.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take CR 206 (exit #305) E 6 mi. to SR
A1A. Turn right (S) and follow A1A 4 mi. The visitor center is on the DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 to SR 100, drive E to SR A1A in Flagler
right (W) side, with more beach access 0.3 miles ahead prior to the Beach. Turn N and go 12 mi. to the site. Beach access is on right
Matanzas Inlet bridge. (E); park entrance station (with maps and bird list) is on left (W).
Beach open 24 hrs/day, visitor center open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386) 446-6780
(904) 471-0116 www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
YEAR-ROUND
21 Faver-Dykes State Park

Rustic trails through hammock, flatwoods and along salt marsh.
Park harbors migrating songbirds spring and fall. Check the
estuary for waders, eagles, white pelicans, ducks and clapper rails.
Be prepared for biting insects April -August.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Palm Coast, take US 1 (exit #298)

0.5 mi. N to Faver Dykes Rd. Turn right (E) and drive 1.5 mi. to the
park entrance at the end.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 794-0997

7
Upland Songbird Cluster
25 Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management

Area
5 During hunting seasons Sept.- March, you can drive into the
area to bird for sparrows, turkeys, wading birds and swallow-
tailed kites. Get a map at the check station. Outside of
hunting season, walk in at main gate, or 1 mile S, on E side
of road.
DIRECTIONS: Take SR 19 S from Palatka approx. 12 mi.

The main entrance is approx. 1 mi. S of Barge Canal bridge
on left (E) side of road.
26 Welaka State Forest

From parking area, Talking Tree Trail with boardwalk into
floodplain interprets the forest's wildlife. John's Landing trail
extends S for 4.5 mi. Expect turkeys, bobwhites, eagles,
migrating warblers, and sandhill cranes.
DIRECTIONS: From Palatka, take SR 17 S 10 mi. to CR

309. Go W on CR 309 5 mi. to town of Welaka. Continue on
CR 309. Office will be 0.8 mi. S of Welaka on the left (E)
side. Go 1 mi. further S and the Talking Tree Trail and John's
Landing trailhead will be on the right (W).

www.fl-dof.com/
27 Welaka National Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

Map 5 - Upland Songbird Cluster Hatchery's ponds attract fish-eating wading birds; check out
birders' viewing platform to see eagles, ospreys, waders,
kingfishers and mergansers. Hike the short trail just N of
Map observation tower for migrants and turkeys.
Upland Songbird Cluster
5 DIRECTIONS: From Palatka, take SR 17 10 mi. S to CR
309. Turn right on CR 309 and go S 9 mi. to observation
tower and ponds on left (E) side.
24 Ravine Gardens State Park
Hike ravine or drive loop road around it, watching for migratory Observation tower open sunrise to sunset. (904) 467-2374
songbirds, resident woodpeckers, owls and hawks. Ruby-throated http://southeast.fws.gov/welaka/
hummingbirds frequent the gardens in spring/summer, and pond
has ducks and waders. YEAR-ROUND
DIRECTIONS: From SR 17 in Palatka, turn S on Moseley Ave.

Go to Twigg St. and turn left (E). Park entrance is on the right. 28 Ocala National Forest: Salt Springs
Enter at the spring entrance, or park and hike for free at the
Open 7:30 a.m. to sunset. (386) 329-3721 www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
trailhead just S of the springs. A wooded trail offers migrants
in season, and at the water's edge, look for waders and
J F M A M J J A S O N D limpkins. ➣
8
Upland Songbird Cluster / Limpkin Cluster
Map
6 Limpkin Cluster
29 Sportsman’s Cove
This private fish camp on Orange Lake is known
for its limpkins, wading birds, shorebirds and
wintering ducks. From the waterfront, scope for
shorebirds on the flats. A reasonably priced
pontoon boat tour is available.
DIRECTIONS: From I-75 S of Gainesville, take

exit #368 (CR 318) and drive E 2.5 mi. to US
441. Turn left (N) on US 441. Go 3 mi. into
McIntosh. Turn right (E) on Ave. F. Site is 8
blocks E of 441 at end of Avenue F.

www.sportsmans-cove.net
30 Silver River State Park

Driving in, watch for woodpeckers, turkeys
and bobwhites. Nature trails run between the
museum and the river, through oak hammock.
Watch for migratory songbirds in season, and
waders and limpkins by the river. Call for details
about monthly bird walks.
DIRECTIONS: From I-75, take SR 40 E 10 mi.,

thru Ocala, to SR 35 in Silver Springs. Turn right
(S) on SR 35 (Baseline Rd.) and go approx. 1.2
6 mi. to entrance on left (E).
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 236-7148

Map 6 - Limpkin Cluster
31 Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area
DIRECTIONS: Salt Springs is located just N of intersection of Excellent site for ducks, shorebirds and wading birds, raptors,
CR 314 and SR 19 on NE side of Ocala National Forest. Hiking sparrows, and blackbirds. Hike to the overlook and the levee trail
trailhead is 0.5 mi. S of the Salt Springs campground entrance, paralleling the wetlands.
on E side of road.
DIRECTIONS: From downtown Ocala, take SR 40 E 14 mi. to CR
Trail open 24 hours a day. (352) 685-2048 314A. Turn right (S) on CR 314A and go 7 mi. Turn right and follow
SE 85th St. less than 1 mi. to public parking area.
J F M A M J J A S O N D Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 288-2233
http://sjr.state.fl.us/
9
Warbler Hammocks Cluster
7
Map 7 - Warbler Hammocks Cluster
Map
7 Warbler Hammocks Cluster
32 Haw Creek Preserve at Russell Landing 34 North Peninsula State Park

Unique boardwalk elevates the birder for closer viewing of the This beach park is great for observing terns, gulls, shorebirds and
canopy in this bottomland hardwood forest. During migration, gannets; the property on the W side of A1A is home to several
watch for swallow-tailed kites, and flocks of warblers. Boardwalk scrub-jay families. While driving A1A or High Bridge Rd., watch the
to the creek may offer waders, including limpkins. telephone lines and posts for Florida scrub-jays.
DIRECTIONS: From Bunnell, take SR 100 W 6 mi. to CR 305. DIRECTIONS: Site is located 6 mi. S of Flagler Beach on SR A1A.
Turn left (S) and go 3 mi. to CR 2006. Turn right (W) and go 1.5 mi.
to CR 2007 (dirt road). Turn left (S) and go 2 mi. to park at end of Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386) 517-2086
road. Road will dogleg left (E) prior to park entrance. www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 437-7490 YEAR-ROUND
35 Tomoka State Park

33 Bulow Creek State Park
Best birding here is on foot at Tomoka Point, especially during
From the observation platform (park at entrance just W of bridge spring and fall songbird migration. From the boat basin and Tomoka
and hike N), scan for avocets, dunlin, both yellowlegs, western Point, scope the rivers for terns, pelicans, loons and ducks; bald
sandpipers and ducks. This same trail leads N to Bulow Plantation eagles and swallow-tailed kites soar overhead.
Ruins' hammocks, and overlooks Bulow Creek's marshes.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take exit #268 to SR 40 towards
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take exit #278 at Old Dixie Highway and Ormond Beach. Drive E, 5 mi. to light at the W approach to
drive E 1 mi. When the road curves S, Walter Boardman Ln. branches Ormond Bridge over Halifax River. Turn left (N) before bridge
off to left (E). Turn E and go approx. 0.5 mi. to park entrance. Look onto N. Beach St. and proceed 4 mi. N to entrance.
for small parking area on right (S) side of Boardman Ln., passing the
wetland pond on left, before (west of) the bridge over Bulow Creek. Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 676-4050
10
Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster
Portions of this property will be closed

intermittently for restoration.
8 DIRECTIONS: From Weirsdale, take

CR 42 E 5.9 mi. Blue House entrance
to Sunnyhill is on left (N) side of road.
From SR 19 N, take CR 42 left (W);
entrance is on the right (N).
Open sunrise to sunset.

38 39 Emeralda Marsh
Conservation Area
Entrances along Emeralda Island Rd.
host large flocks of bobolinks each
spring. Both bitterns are common, as
are migratory ducks in fall and winter.
There is intermittent springtime driv-
ing access to an interpretive loop at
this site; call (352) 429-3673. The
Treasure Island entrance is currently
undergoing restoration and (Site #38)
will reopen after 2004.
DIRECTIONS: From Leesburg, take

US 441 S 2 mi. to CR 44 E. Take CR
44 to Emeralda Ave. and turn left (N).
When road comes to T, turn left and
Map 8 - Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster follow Emeralda Island Rd. NW. Accesses to marsh property will
be on both sides (at mile markers 0.5, 0.9 and 1.8 mi. on left; and
1.4 mi. on right), with occasional closures for this area's ongoing
Map restoration.
8 Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster

Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 329-4404 http://sjr.state.fl.us/
36 Ocala National Forest: Alexander Springs
On Timucuan Trail, watch for songbird migrants and waders. When
driving in the Forest, watch for scrub-jays on wires; limpkins at river
crossings; and red-cockaded woodpecker trees, ringed with white 40 Hidden Waters Preserve
paint, throughout the forest. Steep slopes lead to a sinkhole formed over time by underground
water sources at this small site. Hardwood forest surrounds the lake
DIRECTIONS: From SR 19 N of Eustis, take CR 445 NE 5 mi.
and is productive for songbirds in early Oct. and early April. Check
Entrance to Alexander Springs will be on left (N) side of road.
the lake for ducks and wading birds, and open areas for raptors.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 669-3153
DIRECTIONS: From the SR 44B and US 441 intersection in
Mt. Dora, take US 441 N 0.8 mi. Turn right at East Crooked Lake
Rd and go 0.4 mi. to Country Club Rd. Turn right on Country Club
and go 0.7 mi. Site is on the right.
37 Sunnyhill Restoration Area Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 343-3777 www.lcwa.org
Follow the levees, watching for wintering ducks. Waders nest
here, including both ibises, purple gallinules and least bitterns. ➣ J F M A M J J A S O N D
11
Scrub-jay Cluster
9
Map 9 - Scrub-jay Cluster
Map
9 Scrub-jay Cluster
41 Lake George State Forest DIRECTIONS: From I-4, take exit #114 to US 17-92 N, and
head N 11.2 mi. to DeLeon Springs. (Choose US 17 N when road
Drive to end of road into Bluffton Recreation Area; watch for eagles, splits). Turn left (W) on N side of town onto Ponce DeLeon Blvd.
turkeys, bobwhites and raptors; songbird migrants in hardwood
Cross the railroad tracks and enter the park at this point.
hammock; and swallow-tailed kites, limpkins and waders at the river.
Check the entrance kiosk for occasional hunt dates, or call ahead. Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386) 985-4212
DIRECTIONS: Drive 0.5 mi. E of town of Volusia on St. Johns
River, or 5.7 mi. W of intersection of SR 17 and SR 40. Turn S on
St. Johns River Rd.; go 0.75 mi. to forest entrance gate. The drive
to river extends 2.5 mi. S on St. Johns River Rd.
Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 985-7822 43 Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
www.fl-dof.com/ Impoundments provide resting and feeding areas for waterfowl,
waders and shorebirds, especially in winter. Good songbird viewing
YEAR-ROUND along trails S of the entrance area, and in flatwoods on NW side of
pools.
42 DeLeon Springs State Park Area DIRECTIONS: From US 17 N of DeLand, turn W on Retta Ave.
and drive to Grand Ave. Turn left (S) on Grand Ave. and proceed
Check waterfront for coots, ducks, limpkins and waders, then hike
to Mud Lake Rd. Turn right (W) on Mud Lake and drive to refuge
the 5-mi. hammock trail across floodplain and cypress margin,
entrance at the end.
looking for hermit thrushes, blue-winged warblers and other
migrants. Boat tour runs to Lake Woodruff. ➣ Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 985-4673
12
Scrub-jay Cluster / Tanager Cluster
44 Hontoon Island State Park Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 428-4589

Take the free ferry to this island park and bird for ospreys, anhingas,
limpkins and other wading birds at water's edge. The 2- mi. trail J F M A M J J A S O N D
down W side of island traverses hammocks full of songbirds and
woodpeckers. Scrubby flatwoods in island's interior are good for
warblers and vireos. 48 Smyrna Dunes Park
Easy, 2-mile boardwalk trail passes through hammock good for
DIRECTIONS: From DeLand, take SR 44 W to Old New York
spring warblers, oceanfront where gulls and shorebirds loaf, and
Ave. Turn left and go approx. 2.5 mi. to Hontoon Rd. Turn left and past winter waves that host loons. Plovers like beach nearest inlet;
travel 1 mi. to River Ridge Rd. Turn left and ferry parking area will gannets plunge in inlet; shorebirds and pelicans loaf on sandbars.
be 2 mi. ahead on left side.
DIRECTIONS: In New Smyrna Beach, take SR 44 business
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386) 736-5309 straight onto Canal St. Turn left (N) onto Riverside Dr. and then
www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ right onto Flagler Ave., crossing Halifax River. Turn left (N) onto
N. Peninsula Dr. Park is 2 mi. N at the end of the road.
45 Blue Spring State Park YEAR-ROUND

Overwintering manatees are a big draw at this park, but birding is
also excellent. Walk spring run boardwalk looking for coots, anhin-
gas, cormorants, barred owls and migrating warblers. A 4-mi. trail
explores sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods and marsh.
Map
Tanager Cluster
DIRECTIONS: From US 17-92 in Orange City, take French Ave.
W 2.5 mi. to park entrance just beyond railroad crossing.

10
J F M A M J J A S O N D 49 Rock Springs Run State Reserve
Sandhill, hammock and wetland species are present at this wild
site, as is the sought-after Florida scrub-jay. To observe the
46 Lyonia Preserve capture, examination and recording of birds at a mist-net station,
Hike trails before 10:00 a.m. to see Florida scrub-jays. The scrub call for details and reservations.
also hosts white-eyed vireos, eastern towhees and nighthawks.
Pinelands on N side are home to red-headed woodpeckers and DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take SR 46 (exit #101C)
a wetland with wading birds and ducks. 7.3 mi. Entrance is on left (S) side of the road.
DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Deltona, take SR 472 (exit 114) E 2.7 Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (407) 884-2008
mi. to Providence Blvd. (CR 4155). Turn right (S) and drive 0.7 mi. www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
to Eustace Ave. After turning right (W) on Eustace, library will be
immediately on left (S) side of road. Park in library's lot; trailhead is J F M A M J J A S O N D
behind library.
Open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (386) 740-5261 50 Seminole State Forest
www.volusia.org/growth/landacq.htm
Large site – driving in is recommended. Call in advance for permits.
Check East Spur's scrub for Florida scrub-jays, then park at
YEAR-ROUND Blackwater Creek bridge for songbirds and limpkins. Hike Sulphur
Loop or grade road to see indigo buntings, vireos and warblers.
47 Lake Ashby Park DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take SR 46 (exit #101C) W
5.4 mi. Forest entrance is 2000 ft. W of Wekiva River on right (N)
Watch for wood storks circling on thermals and turkeys under the
side of the road.
oaks on drive in. Trail from the SE side of the parking lot runs
through good songbird hammocks to lake and boardwalk. From Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 360-6677
here, look for ospreys, eagles, waders and terns. www.fl-dof.com/
DIRECTIONS: From SR 44 E of DeLand, take SR 415 S 4.3 mi.
to Lake Ashby Rd. Turn left on Lake Ashby Rd. and go 1 mi. to Boy J F M A M J J A S O N D
Scout Camp Rd. Turn left and drive 1 mi.; entrance on the right (S)
side ot the road. ➣
13
Tanager Cluster
51 Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take exit #94 (SR 434) W
0.9 mi. to Wekiwa Springs Rd. Turn right. Go 4.1 mi. to entrance.
Hike main trail N for miles in this 17,800-acre preserve, or choose
1-mi. sandhill nature trail. Expect summer tanagers, Bachman's Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (407) 884-2008
sparrows, yellow-throated warblers, Eastern bluebirds and brown- www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/
headed nuthatches on nature trail. On main trail, everything from
bobwhites to black-and-white warblers are possible.
YEAR-ROUND
DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take SR 46 (exit #101C– not
#101A) W 4.2 mi. Preserve entrance is on right (N) side of road.
53 Lake Jesup Wilderness Area
From boat launch, bird for eagles, terns, waders and white pelicans
on lake in winter. Using map (from kiosk behind boat ramp), hike
the pastureland; watch for raptors and sparrows. Look for barred
J F M A M J J A S O N D owls and migratory songbirds in hammock at end of berm trail.
DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take I-4 N/E to Lake Mary Blvd.

52 Wekiwa Springs State Park Follow Lake Mary Blvd. E 5.5 mi. to Sanford Ave. S (rather than
Sanford Ave. N or SR 427). Turn right (S) and follow it to the end
Trail from spring to Sand Lake runs through 6 plant communities
at Lake Jesup Park.
and hosts 34 warbler species. Watch for red-headed, pileated, red-
bellied, hairy and downy woodpeckers. Bachman's sparrows call in Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 665-7352 www.co.seminole.fl.us/natland/
sandhills. A mist-netting station runs Sept.-Oct.; call for details and
reservations.➣ J F M A M J J A S O N D
54 Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

See 19 captive raptor species at this rehabilitation facility,
including bald eagle, peregrine falcon, Mississippi kite,
Cooper's hawk, burrowing owl, caracara and short-
tailed hawk. Educational programs cover rehabilitation
techniques, raptor biology and identification.
DIRECTIONS: Exit I-4 at Lee Rd. (exit #88) N of

Orlando. Take Lee Rd. E, making an almost immediate
left onto Wymore Rd. (N). Continue to Kennedy Blvd.
and turn right (E). Proceed 0.6 mi. to East Ave. Turn
left (N). At Audubon Way, turn left into parking lot.
Open Tues.-Sun. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

(407) 644-0190 www.adoptabird.org
YEAR-ROUND
55 Mead Gardens
From Sept.-Oct. and Apr.-May, morning birding can
reap 15 or more warbler species, as well as thrushes,
redstarts, vireos and kinglets. Bird boardwalk, stream,
pond and near picnic area.
DIRECTIONS: From I-4 north of downtown Orlando,

take SR 426/Fairbanks Ave. east towards Winter Park
to Denning Dr. Turn right (S) on Denning Drive and
10 proceed 0.5 miles to Garden Dr. Turn left (E). Mead

Gardens is at end of the road.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (407) 599-3334
www.ci.winter-park.fl.us
Map 10 - Tanager Cluster J F M A M J J A S O N D
14
Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster
Map
11 Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster

11
56 Lake Proctor Wilderness Area
Property offers 6 mi. of trails through flatwoods, sandhill
and oak hammock habitats, as well as vantage of lake.
Hammocks and flatwoods are good for migrants; nesting
sandhill cranes frequent lake. Watch lake margin for
snipe and bitterns.
DIRECTIONS: From Sanford, take SR 46 E. Go 1 mi.

past intersection with CR 426 and site will be on left (N)
side of the road.

www.co.seminole.fl.us/natland/
57 Geneva Wilderness Area

Listen for eastern towhees and mixed flocks of warblers
in oaks in fall/spring. Ponds have sandhill cranes,
waders, plus snipe and ducks, including wood ducks
and hooded mergansers.
DIRECTIONS: From Oviedo, take CR 426 NE 6 mi.

Site is on right (SE) side of road. If you reach Snowhill
Rd., you have gone too far.

www.co.seminole.fl.us/natland/
58 59 Little Big Econ State Forest:

Demetree and Kilbee Tracts Map 11 - Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster
Bird the pasture near Demetree Tract parking area for
bluebirds, sparrows and raptors, then follow the trail
SW to trail along river and look for songbirds. Kilbee Tract
abuts the St. Johns – hike 1 mi. for view of river and its 60 Orlando Wetlands Park
waders, shorebirds and ducks, in fall/winter. Hike the dike trails to view snowy egrets, bitterns, purple gallinules
and wintering ducks. Another trail beginning at parking lot winds
DIRECTIONS: From Oviedo, take CR 426 to Snowhill Rd. Turn
around Lake Searcy, then through a hammock good for migratory
right (S) and go 1.7 mi. to reach Demetree Tract entrance (site #59) songbirds in season. PROPERTY IS CLOSED OCT. 1 - JAN. 20.
on right (W) side of road. For Kilbee Tract (site #58), take CR 426
to SR 46. Turn right (E) on SR 46 and go 4.0 mi. Entrance to Kilbee DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, travel E on SR 50 to town of
Tract is on right (S) side just prior to St. Johns River bridge. Christmas. Turn left (N) onto Ft. Christmas Rd. (CR 420) and travel
2.3 mi. Wheeler Rd. (dirt road) leads off to right – turn right (E) and
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. travel 1.5 mi. Parking will be on the left. Pick up a map, sign in.
(407) 971-3500
www.fl-dof.com Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 568-1706
15
Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster / River to Ocean Cluster
61 Tosohatchee State Reserve 64 River Breeze Park

Obtain bird list and map at entrance, and check for road closures. Unique dock extends out into Mosquito Lagoon. At low tide, dock
Drive Powerline Rd. looking for raptors, bluebirds, turkeys and spar- permits close views of shorebirds like avocets, dunlins, red knots
rows. At Jim Creek slough, watch for wood storks and limpkins. The and dowitchers on exposed mudflats. Best in fall/winter at low tide.
St. Johns River marsh is good for rails, ducks and purple gallinules.
DIRECTIONS: From US 1 in Oak Hill, turn E on H. H. Burch Rd.
DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take SR 50 E to town of Christmas. Site is at end of road on left (N) side.
Turn right (S) on Taylor Creek Rd. Proceed 3 mi. and entrance will
be on left (E). Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 345-5525
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (407) 568-5893 J F M A M J J A S O N D

J F M A M J J A S O N D 65 Scottsmoor Landing
At this access to N. Indian River Lagoon, scope for migratory ducks
in season. View shorebirds and waders along shoreline. Northern
Map harriers prowl the black needle rush marsh, where rails skulk in tall
reeds. Watch for painted buntings on entrance road.
12 River to Ocean Cluster

DIRECTIONS: From Mims, take US 1 N of SR 46 5 mi. Go E 2 mi.
on Huntington Rd., across railroad tracks. Park is at end of road.
Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 264-5105 www.brevardparks.com

62 Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Gateway
Drive Black Point for rails, ducks like pintails and teals, and shore-
birds. Reddish egrets “dance” in the shallows, and harriers flush
66 67 Buck Lake Conservation Area:
shorebirds in winter. Hammock and scrub trails are good for East and West Entrances
migrants. Florida scrub-jays perch on telephone wires and posts Hike the extensive uplands here to see Bachman’s sparrows,
on Kennedy Boundary Pkwy. brown-headed nuthatches, Florida scrub-jays, turkeys, eastern
bluebirds, red-headed woodpeckers and migrants like blue gros-
DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 to Titusville exit #220 (SR 406). Go E on
beaks. Migratory months most productive and most comfortable.
SR 406 across Indian River. Visitor Center is 5.3 mi. from US 1 on
the right. DIRECTIONS: From I-95 W of Mims, take SR 46 (exit #223) W
Refuge open sunrise to sunset. Closed during NASA shuttle 1 mi. to entrance on right (N) side of road. Entrance road is dirt,
launches. Visitor Center open M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., marked with small brown sign. A second entrance is another 6 mi.
S-S 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sun., April-Oct. W on the N side of road.
(321) 861-0667 www.nbbd.com/godo/minwr Open sunrise to sunset. For hunt information, call (386) 329-4404.
63 Canaveral National Seashore

(North Entrance) 68 Seminole Ranch Conservation Area
Easy access to beach for terns and gulls; platforms on dunes for Watch for migratory songbirds, painted buntings, turkeys and wad-
migrating raptors, and gannets at sea; hammock trails for migratory ing birds in hammocks and wetlands in this large wilderness area.
songbirds; and lagoon vantages for waders, shorebirds and Directions are to the N, no-hunt portions of property. Knowledge of
migratory ducks. Twelve-mile dike trail allows wilder views of lagoon, bird calls is helpful. Several entrances are on W side of road, with
beach and coastal scrub. Backcountry access requires permit. map kiosks at each.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in New Smyrna, take SR 44 E to SR DIRECTIONS: From Mims, take SR 46 approx. 5 mi. W of I-95.
A1A. Turn right (S) and drive 7 mi. on A1A to park entrance. Turn S on Hatbill Rd. There are several trailheads on W side of
road as you drive down Hatbill Rd.
Open summers 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm., winters 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm.
(386) 428-3384 Open sunrise to sunset. http://sjr.state.fl.us/
16
River to Ocean Cluster
69 Parrish Park Titusville 70 Canaveral National Seashore

Enjoy Indian River Lagoon with views of ducks, shorebirds, loons (South Entrance)
and grebes in fall and winter. Check both sides of road for loafing Immediately after entrance station, look for Florida scrub-jays along
terns and black skimmers, ruddy turnstones and other shorebirds. road. Park at a beach crossover and bird the beach for plovers,
In spring and summer, little will be seen except gulls, terns and terns and gulls. Watch offshore in winter for the occasional gannet,
waders. shearwater and jaeger. Sea ducks, loons and cormorants feed in
the surf in winter. Area is subject to closure for security purposes.
DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, take SR 406 across Indian River.
After crossing, site is immediately on left (N) side of road. DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, take SR 406 E and veer right
(E) onto SR 402 (unmarked). Proceed through Merritt Island
Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 264-5105 www.brevardparks.com
National Wildlife Refuge to National Seashore entrance station.
J F M A M J J A S O N D Open summers 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
winters 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
(321) 867-4077
www.nbbd.com/godo/cns
YEAR-ROUND
12 71 Hatbill Park
Watch along Hatbill Rd. for everything from
songbird migrants to turkeys. This St. Johns
River site provides a sunset view of hundreds
of egrets, ibises and herons coming in to
roost. In winter, see ducks and flocks of
swallows near sunset. Prowl for owls along
road on drive back.
DIRECTIONS: From Mims, take SR 46

5 mi. W of I-95 to Hatbill Rd. (dirt road)
on left (S) side of SR 46. Take Hatbill Rd.
several miles S to site at end.

www.brevardparks.com
Mims
Map 12 - River to Ocean Cluster
17
Natural Attractions Cluster
73 Tibet-Butler Preserve
Map
13 Natural Attractions Cluster This park shelters diverse habitats on Lake Tibet-Butler. Orient
yourself at nature center: hike to waterfront for wading birds like
white ibises and anhingas, or walk to bayhead, hammocks and
flatwoods for songbird migrants. Watch overhead for swallow-tailed
kites in spring/summer.
72 Lake Louisa State Park
DIRECTIONS: From I-4 on the S side of Orlando, take exit #68
A new entrance makes it possible to stop in briefly. Bird the lake (Lake Buena Vista) and go W on North SR 535. SR 535 turns left
at end of road, and watch for sparrows, meadowlarks, turkeys, 0.5 mi. W of I-4. After you turn, continue on SR 535 for 5.3 mi.;
bobwhites and raptors on the way in and out. More extensive, rustic site is on right (N) side of road.
trails also available.
Open Wed.-Sun., 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (407) 876-6696
DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take I-4 exit #64B (US 192) W 8 mi. www.orangecountyfl.net
to US 27. Turn right (N) and go 8.5 mi. Site will be on left (W).
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 394-3969
74 Gatorland
Black-crowned night-herons; great blue, little blue, green and
tricolored herons; white ibises, wood storks and snowy egrets nest
Map 13 - Natural Attractions Cluster over alligator ponds. Boardwalks permit close views. Birds nest
Jan.-Aug., peaking April-June. Mention the
Birding Trail for a 30% discount.
DIRECTIONS: Located 3 mi. N of Kissimmee

on US 441 (S. Orange Blossom Trail),
Gatorland is on E side of road.
Open summers 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., winters

9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (407) 855-5496
www.gatorland.com
75 The Nature Conservancy’s

Disney Wilderness Preserve
Good educational facility with 7 miles of trails.
Watch for turkeys and sandhill cranes on the
drive in. On the trail, expect raptors, bobwhites,
wrens, warblers, bluebirds and sparrows. Scan
lake for woodcocks, waders, snipe, king rails
and ducks.
DIRECTIONS: From Kissimmee (US 192),
take John Young Parkway S 3.6 mi. to
Pleasant Hill Rd. and go 7.6 mi. to Old
Pleasant Hill Rd. (marked with Nature
Conservancy sign). Turn left onto Old Pleasant
Hill Rd. and go 0.6 mi. to entrance on left.
Open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (407) 935-0002
13 www.nature.org/florida
18
Turkey Cluster
Map migrants. East of parking area, warblers frequent the scrubby oaks.
Wading birds flourish in wetlands along N and NE boundaries.
14 Turkey Cluster Additional access from E side, via Moss Park.
DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take Narcoossee Rd. (CR 15) or

Beeline Expressway (SR 528) E. From the intersection of SR 528
76 Moss Park and CR 15, go 7 mi. S on CR 15. Turn left (E) on Clapp-Simms-
Wander the oak hammock for sandhill cranes and wild turkeys, Duda Rd. and follow signs to entrance.
scope the island in Lake Mary Jane in summer to watch nesting Open dawn to dusk (863) 648-3203
wood storks; check field at S end of property for raptors and hike
the wooded edges for migratory songbirds.
DIRECTIONS: From SR 436 just N of Orlando International Airport,
take Hoffner Rd. (which becomes Narcoossee Rd./SR 15) E,
becoming SE, for 6.5 mi. to Moss Park Rd. Turn left (E) onto Moss 78 Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve
Park Road and follow it 4 mi. to park at end. Follow main trail S, make the first turn E, and curve back N again
to follow powerline past Trout Lake. Watch for raptors, wrens,
Open summers 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., winters 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. sparrows and waders. Due S from parking area, wet prairie shelters
(407) 273-2327 www.orangecountyfl.net nesting sandhill cranes, snipe and woodcocks. Good for migrants.
YEAR-ROUND DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, take US 192 E to CR 534A (Pine
Grove Rd.). Turn left (N) and then turn right (E) onto Bass Hwy.
Go to Midland Rd., turn right and follow the road to park at end.
77 Split Oak Mitigation Park
Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 343-3400 or (407) 343-3409
Head S from entrance, across pasture and into oak hammock, to
see turkeys and songbirds. Property’s SE corner is good for ➣ J F M A M J J A S O N D
Map 14 -
Turkey Cluster
14
19
Teal Cluster
80 Blue Heron Wetlands Treatment Facility

Map
Waders, purple gallinules, bitterns and many wetland species are
15 Teal Cluster common year-round. Shorebirds and ducks winter in impoundments

late Oct.-Feb., and northern harriers patrol marshes. Dikes are
open to vehicles; sign in at office.
DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, take SR 50 W. Turn left (S) on

79 Fox Lake Park Deep Marsh Rd. approx. 0.5 mi. past I-95. Site is at end of road.
This site offers a variety of water and wading birds such as coots, If gate is closed, ring buzzer. Sign in at 1st building on left.
snowy egrets, green herons and anhingas. Migrant songbirds prefer
the oaks and forest edges. From a kayak (bring your own), you Open dawn to dusk, sign-in at office required.
may spot swallow-tailed kites, limpkins and roseate spoonbills. (321) 383-5642
DIRECTIONS: From intersection of SR 50 and SR 405 in Titusville, YEAR-ROUND

take 405 (South St.) N approx. 2.5 mi. to Fox Lake Rd. Turn left
(W) and go 2 mi. to end.
YEAR-ROUND
Map 15 - Teal Cluster
15
20
Teal Cluster
81 Kennedy Point Park 85 Port’s End Park

Scan the Indian River for wintering ducks, loons and grebes. This site is worth a visit if you’re already out by the Port – check
Check for laughing, ring-billed and herring gulls along seawall. lock area for shorebirds like ruddy turnstones or the rocks for
View ruddy turnstones around rocks and neighboring docks. This spotted sandpipers. Brown pelicans and double-crested cormorants
highly seasonal site is best in fall/winter. loaf on sea wall, along with great blue herons and snowy egrets.
DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, travel 0.25 mi. S on US 1 from DIRECTIONS: Take SR 528 E towards the Port and choose the
SR 50. Park is on the left (E) side of the road. ‘B’ side (S) entrance into Port Canaveral. Turn left onto Mullet Dr.
Port’s End Park is located before drawbridge on right. Canaveral
Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 264-5105 Locks are located at the very end of Mullet Dr.
YEAR-ROUND
YEAR-ROUND
82 Pine Island Conservation Area

Watch migratory ducks like blue-winged teal and American wigeons
86 Jetty Maritime Park
from blinds on ponds. Pine flatwoods on W side of property attract From N end of park, in fall/winter, check ship turning basin from
songbirds; open marsh harbors waders and shorebirds. During jetty for uncommon ducks and loons, cormorants and mergansers.
hunts, check station at entrance will notify you that N part of the Turnstones, willets and large flocks of terns, black skimmers and
property is closed to birding. gulls loaf on beach. The hammock attracts migratory songbirds.
DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of SR 528 and SR 3 DIRECTIONS: Take SR 528 E towards Port Canaveral. When
(N. Courtenay Pkwy.) on Merritt Island, take SR 3 N 5 mi. to Pine approaching port facility, take ‘B’ side (S) entrance and follow
Island Rd. Turn left (W) onto Pine Island Rd. Follow it 2.5 mi. to the George King Boulevard E to Jetty Park.
parking lot at the end.
Open 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (321) 783-7111
Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (321) 633-2046
www.eelbrevard.com
87 Rotary Park at Merritt Island

83 James G. Bourbeau Park Primarily good for migratory songbirds in season, this site has an
elevated boardwalk through a hardwood hammock. Its nature
This St. Johns River floodplain site provides a view of the river.
center is open by appointment for groups.
See waders like wood storks, migratory ducks in fall and winter,
and shorebirds like black-necked stilts. Limpkins are likely, and DIRECTIONS: Take SR 520 onto Merritt Island. Turn right (S) on
occasionally, crested caracaras and snail kites are seen.
Courtenay Pkwy and travel 2.5 mi. to park entrance on the right (W)
DIRECTIONS: From Cocoa, take SR 520 approx. 5 mi. W of I-95. side of the road.
Park is on S side of the road on E side of the St. Johns River
bridge.
88 Lori Wilson Park

84 Kelly Park Check the hammock for migratory songbirds and painted buntings,
This Banana River vantage provides views of rafts of ducks like the coastal scrub for Florida scrub-jays, and the beach for shore-
green-winged teal, common and red-throated loons and horned birds and seabirds. Up to 15 warbler species possible during spring
grebes in fall and winter. Scan exposed shoals at low tide or migration.
mudflats on the N side of causeway, for shorebirds and waders.
DIRECTIONS: From SR 520 in Cocoa Beach, take SR A1A 3.5 mi.
DIRECTIONS: On Merritt Island, take SR 528 E and exit on North S. Park is on left (E) side of the road.
Banana River Drive. Park is S of SR 528 on W side of the river.
Open sunrise to sunset (nature center hours vary)
Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 633-1874 (321) 633-1874
J F M A M J J A S O N D YEAR-ROUND
21
Purple Gallinule Cluster
92 Peace River Park

Map
The floodplain forest is a migrant songbird hotspot. Walk board-
16 Purple Gallinule Cluster walk to river and look for waders and migratory ducks. This site's
bird list includes 3 thrushes, 4 vireos and 22 warbler species.
DIRECTIONS: From Bartow, take SR 98 S to Homeland. Turn

89 Tenoroc Fish Management Area Gateway left (E) on CR 640. Visit 2nd (boardwalk) park entrance on the N
side of CR 640 (approx. 0.8 mi. E of first entrance).
Check in at office, and drive to Picnic Lake for waders, or hike
trail around Cemetery Lake, for wintering ducks like blue-winged Open 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (321) 455-1385
teal and hooded mergansers. From the dike trail across the road
from Picnic Lake’s parking area, check overlook to see wading J F M A M J J A S O N D
birds nesting in spring.
DIRECTIONS: From I-4 E of Lakeland, take exit #38 (SR

33) S 1.6 mi. to SR 659. Veer left on Combee Rd. (SR 659)
and go 1.2 mi. to Tenoroc Mine Rd. Turn left (E) and follow
road to main office on right. Check-in/out required.
Area is open for birding Friday through Monday, 6:00 a.m.

to 5:30 p.m.; office is open all week, 8:00 to 5:00 p.m.
(863) 499-2421 Tues.-Thurs., (863) 499-2422 Fri.- Mon.
90 Saddle Creek Park

Driving in, watch wetlands for waders like glossy ibises and
limpkins. Hike mixed hardwood and cypress forest at park’s
north end for a chance of seeing 36 warbler species in fall
migration from Aug.-Oct., and in April.
DIRECTIONS: From I-4, exit #38 (SR 33), go 1.6 mi. S to

SR 659. Veer left and go 5 mi. to US 92 (Memorial Dr.).Turn
left (E), go 1.5 mi. to Saddle Creek Park Rd. Park on left (N).
Open 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (863) 534-4340

www.polk-county.net/Community_Services/parks/index.htm
91 Lake Hollingsworth
Excellent views of many waders from the 3 mi. sidewalk
trail. Look for purple gallinules, black-crowned night-herons,
least bitterns, and terns in winter. See avocets and sand-
pipers during low water, black-necked stilts in winter/spring,
and white pelicans in winter.
DIRECTIONS: From I-4, take exit #32 (US 98, Florida Ave.)
S into Lakeland. US 98 becomes SR 37; pass through
downtown and turn left (E) on Beacon Ave. Road dead ends
on Lake Hollingsworth Dr., veer right. Public parking has 2
entrances on left (N) side, beginning at Cleveland Heights
light. You are at southernmost point on the lake. Parking lot
is one-way.
Open sunrise to sunset. City of Lakeland: (863) 834-6040
www.publicworks.lakelandgov.net
16
YEAR-ROUND Map 16 - Purple Gallinule Cluster
22
Ridge Cluster
Map 94 Eagle Ridge Mall

Ridge Cluster
17 Eagle Ridge Mall has surprisingly good birding in retention pond on
N side. In fall/winter and early spring, it is full of shorebirds, like
dunlins, snipe and spotted sandpipers. Sandhill cranes roost here,
and waders and bitterns frequent the pond, too.
93 Lake Region Audubon's Street Nature Center DIRECTIONS: The Eagle Ridge Mall is located on E side of US 27,
Hike trails through hardwood forest to the lakefront. Excellent for 5 mi. N of Lake Wales and 17 mi. S of I-4.
migrants like indigo buntings during migration and residents like
belted kingfishers. Bald eagles likely on waterfront. The migrating Open sunrise to sunset. (863) 676-2300
warbler list tops 20 species.
DIRECTIONS: From US 27 N of Lake Wales, take CR 540/
Cypress Gardens Blvd. W to intersection with Old Cypress Gardens
Rd. Turn N on Old Cypress Gardens Rd. and follow it through turn
to W. After turn, look for Lameraux Rd. on right. Turn right (N) on
Lameraux. Center is on left at
115 Lameraux Rd. Park in lot
at end of dirt entrance road.
Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(863) 324-7304
Map 17 - Ridge Cluster

17
23
Ridge Cluster
95 Lake Kissimmee State Park 98 Ridge Audubon Nature Center

On the way, watch for caracaras, bald eagles, turkeys and bobwhites. This nature center lies on the Lake Wales Ridge, Central Florida's
Look for scrub-jays at entrance station, and at lake and picnic areas elevated backbone, which supports some of the most rare uplands
for waders and snail kites. Check cow camp area for songbird in Florida. Walk nature trail to see a sandhill habitat, watching for
migrants and marshy lake edge for an occasional whooping crane. birds like eastern towhees, white-eyed vireos, ground doves and
nighthawks.
DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US 27 and SR 60 in Lake
Wales, take SR 60 E 9 mi. to Boy Scout Rd. Turn left (N) and take DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US 27 and SR 60 in Lake
Boy Scout Camp Rd. to Camp Mack Road. Turn right (E) and follow Wales, take US 27 S 4 mi. to CR 640. Turn left (E). CR 640 will
Camp Mack Rd. to park entrance. join SR 17 as it turns S. Nature Center will be on SW corner of
intersection with North Crooked Lake Dr. in Babson Park.
Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (863) 696-1112
www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ Open 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Nature Trail open dawn to dusk.
(863) 638-1355 E-mail: Raudubon@cs.com
YEAR-ROUND
96 Bok Tower Gardens

This cultivated garden also has native landscape in which you can
99 Lake Wales Ridge State Forest:
find birds like kestrels, nighthawks, pileated woodpeckers, and Walk-in-the-Water Tract
loggerhead shrikes. Check the gardens for hummingbirds in spring/ Rustic site, best for a few, sought-after species. The main entrance
summer, also migratory songbirds Sept.- Oct., and in April. at King Trail Gate is good for Florida scrub-jays, as well as fly-overs
by short-tailed hawks. Other trails wind through scrub, may yield
DIRECTIONS: From US 27 N of SR 60, exit E onto Mountain Lake
jays and eastern towhees, and occasionally, migratory songbirds.
Cutoff Rd. and go to US 17A. Turn right on 17A (S) and go 0.5 mi.
to Burns Ave. Turn left (E) and go to top of hill; entrance to Gardens DIRECTIONS: From Lake Wales, take SR 60 E approx. 7 mi. to
on left (N) side of the road. Walk-in-the-Water Rd. Turn right (S) and go approx. 5 mi.
Entrances to forest will be on right side of road.
Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission, 5:00 p.m.)
(863) 676-1408 Open sunrise to sunset. (863) 635-7801
www.boktower.org/
100 Lake Wales Ridge State Forest:

97 Lake Wailes
Arbuckle Tract
Drive to NW corner of the lake and park your car. Bird the oaks for On drive in, watch for scrub-jays in 5-foot tall oak scrub. On left,
migrants in season, and look for waders, anhingas, sandhill cranes, trailheads lead through songbird habitat to Lake Arbuckle for
and wintering duck species at the lake. waders, eagles, limpkins and ducks. Reedy Creek Trail offers
chance of short-tailed hawks and Lake Godwin flatwoods good
DIRECTIONS: On US 27 just N of SR 60 in Lake Wales, turn E
for brown-headed nuthatches.
onto Central Ave. and proceed until it dead ends at lake. There are
4 parking sites on the SW, NW, N and NE sides of lake. DIRECTIONS: From Lake Wales, take US 27 S 10 mi. to
CR 630A. Go E 4 mi. (through Frostproof) to Lake Reedy Blvd. and
turn right (SE). Follow Lake Reedy Blvd. 3 mi. to Lake Arbuckle
www.cityoflakewales.com
Road. Turn left (E) on Lake Arbuckle Rd. Forest entrance will be
approximately 1 mi. on your right. Roads are dirt, but safe for
2-wheel drive vehicles.
24
Whooping Crane Cluster
Map
18 Whooping Crane Cluster

18
1011 Forever Florida
Privately owned tour covers Crescent J Ranch and
untouched flatwoods, prairies and hammocks of
Forever Florida Preserve. Turkeys, eagles and
sandhill cranes likely. Explore the Bull Creek hammock,
listening for songbirds and watching for waders. Call
for details/reservations.
DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, take US 192 E to

US 441. Turn right (S) and go 7.5 mi. Forever Florida
will be on the left (E) side of the road.
Open 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (888) 957-9794

www.foreverflorida.com
102 Joe Overstreet Landing

As you drive down Joe Overstreet Road, look in the
pastures for whooping cranes, sandhill cranes and
turkeys, and on the fenceposts for meadowlarks, bald
eagles and crested caracaras. At the end, check for
limpkins, waders and snail kites, and scope for ducks.
DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, take Vermont

Ave./Canoe Creek Rd. (CR 523) S 19.3 mi. to Joe
Overstreet Rd. Turn right (SW) and follow the road to
the boat ramp at the end.
Open sunrise to sunset.
YEAR-ROUND
103 Three Lakes Wildlife

Management Area Map 18 - Whooping Crane Cluster
Driving loop runs 5 mi. through flatwoods, hammocks and scrub.
Songbirds in oaks/pines; red-cockaded woodpeckers nest before
exit. Turkeys, wood storks and limpkins common; grasshopper
and Bachman's sparrows, short-tailed hawks, white-tailed kites
occasional in remote parts. Call ahead for hunting information.
DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, go 24.7 mi. S on Vermont Ave./

Canoe Creek Rd. (CR 523) to the Prairie Lakes/Lake Jackson
entrance sign on right (W) side of road. Use this entrance for
wildlife drive.
Open 24 hours a day. (352) 732-1225 www.state.fl.us/fwc/
25
Migrant Fallout Cluster
107 108 Lake Washington Park

Map
19 Migrant Fallout Cluster Look for waders, eagles, purple gallinule, marsh and sedge wrens,
and limpkin at waterfront. Snail kites living on lake are seen
occasionally from this vantage, more often at the SE corner of
the lake from the dirt Sarno Road Extension (site #108). Sparrows
like fallow edges of park; look for bobolinks in migration.
104 Brevard Zoo
DIRECTIONS: From US 1 N of Melbourne, take Lake Washington
Zoo's native animal area provides up-close looks at species like Rd. W 6 mi. to the park at the end.
the crested caracara, and offers programs on their conservation.
Guided kayaking program available through on-site wetland, where Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 952-4650
you can see wild wading birds, ducks and songbirds. Call for
details/reservations. YEAR-ROUND
DIRECTIONS: N of Melbourne, take exit #191 (Wickham Rd.) off
I-95. Go E to the 2nd light. Site will be on right (S) side of the road
at the intersection of Wickham and Murrell.
Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(321) 254-9453 x19 www.brevardzoo.org
YEAR-ROUND
105 Rotary Park at Suntree

Worth a quick stop in fall and winter. At low tide,
waders and shorebirds feed along shoreline
and at N end of property, a small sheltered
bay harbors wintering ducks as well as loons
and grebes.
DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of

SR 404 and US 1, take US 1 N 2 mi. Site
is on right (E) side of the road.

106 Wickham Park

Park's scrubby flatwoods are home to brown-
headed nuthatches and bobwhites, painted
buntings and chuck-will's-widows. Playing
fields are good for raptors and killdeers; wooded
nature trails provide good chances for migrants.
Pick up a map at office on right at entrance.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Melbourne, take

19
Wickham Rd. E 6 mi. Turn left (E) onto Parkway
Dr. Wickham Park will be 0.5 mi. on left (N) side.

J F M A M J J A S O N D Map 19 - Migrant Fallout Cluster

26
Migrant Fallout Cluster
109 Erna Nixon Park 112 Coconut Point Park

Site has excellent programming and in-depth native plant walk to This small beach park warrants a quick stop for shorebirds such as
learn more about habitats upon which Florida's birds depend. Bird black-bellied plovers and red knots in fall/winter, and to scope for
the property in morning, watching for summer tanagers, eastern gannets and seabirds offshore. Watch winter surf for common and
towhees and mixed warbler flocks in migration. red-throated loons.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Melbourne, take US 192 E to Evans DIRECTIONS: From Melbourne, take US 192 E to A1A. Go S
Rd. Turn left (N) on Evans Rd. and go 0.8 mi. to the park on the left 5.5 mi., site is on left (E) side of the road.
(W) side of the road.
Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (321) 952-4650
www.brevardparks.com J F M A M J J A S O N D
113 Honest John's Fish Camp
Site offers unique access to wading bird roosts/rookeries, viewed
110 Turkey Creek Sanctuary by small motorboats, or by kayak/canoe (available for rent).
This migratory hot spot's warbler list has more than 30 species, Nesting/resting birds are vulnerable to disturbance; this is an
including Canada, Nashville, Swainson's and Tennessee. Migration opportunity to view them while learning about responsible bird-
heaviest in October and again in April; bird boardwalk along creek watching.
through hammocks and past a sand pine ridge. Tours available in
season. DIRECTIONS: From Melbourne Beach, take SR A1A 10 mi. S to
Mullet Creek Rd. Turn right (W) on Mullet Creek Rd. Site is at end
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Palm Bay, take exit #176 onto Palm of the road. Please respect private property along this road by not
Bay Rd. Go E on Palm Bay Rd. to Babcock St. and turn right (S). exiting your car until you've reached the site.
Make a left (E) onto Port Malabar Blvd and continue E 1 mi. to
Palm Bay Community Center on right. Parking for sanctuary is Open 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
behind Community Center. Closed Christmas Day and Tuesdays, May-Oct.
(321) 727-2923
Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (321) 952-3433 www.honestjohns.net
* J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D
* 2 weeks notice required for guided tours
111 Malabar Scrub Sanctuary

This site shelters scrub habitat with breeding populations of scrub-
jays. Sandy scrub trails provide views of scrub-jays and other birds,
including songbird migrants, woodpeckers, sparrows and eastern
towhees. Morning hours best for avoiding heat and full sun.
DIRECTIONS: Exit I-95 in Palm Bay at Malabar Rd. (SR 514, exit
#173). Take Malabar Rd. east approximately 2.5 mi. Entrance is on
left (N) side of road immediately E of fire station.
Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (321) 255-4466

www.eelbrevard.com
* J F M A M J J A S O N D
*ADA accessible on center road
27
Vero Vireo Cluster
117 Sebastian Inlet State Park

Map
Site has waders and shorebirds, views of ocean for gannets,
20 Vero Vireo Cluster jaegers, shearwaters and petrels, and mangrove margins for
migratory songbirds. Park also offers guided boat tours to Pelican
Island National Wildlife Refuge, great for nesting and roosting
waders. Call ahead for reservations.
114 T. M. Goodwin Waterfowl DIRECTIONS: Take A1A N 12 mi. from Vero Beach. Entrance
station on the N side of Sebastian Inlet bridge, on left (W) side
Management Area
of the road.
Expect gamut of ducks in late fall/winter, as well as shorebirds
and hawks in migration. Area closed to birders during hunts; call in Open 24 hours a day. (321) 984-4852
advance for info. Hike dikes around the impoundments. Road into
the area can be good for everything from swallow-tailed kites to * YEAR-ROUND
bobwhites to caracaras.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 and CR 512 intersection, N of Vero * reservations for boat tour only
Beach, go W 3 mi. to CR 507 (Babcock St.). Turn right (N) and go
5 mi. Turn left (W) onto Fellsmere Grade Rd. just S of the C-54
canal. At Stick Marsh boat ramp, follow signs to site entrance.
Open one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.

(321) 726-2862
http://wld.fwc.state.fl.us/duck/
115 116 St. Sebastian River

20
State Buffer Preserve
North entrance: Bachman's sparrows,
scrub-jays and red-cockaded woodpeckers
on the NE part of horse trail accessed
via Stumper Flats trail. Green, Blue and
Red trails have hammock with migratory
songbirds and swallow-tailed kites.
South entrance: open space with raptors,
meadowlarks.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Vero Beach,

exit at CR 512. For N entrance: go W 3 mi.
to Babcock St. (CR 507). Turn right and
go 5 mi. Enter at Buffer Preserve Dr. on
right (E) side of the road immediately after
crossing the C-54 canal. For S entrance:
go E on CR 512 from I-95 1.8 mi. to W. W.
Ranch Rd. Turn left (N); follow road into
preserve.
Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(321) 953-5004
www.dep.state.fl.us/
Map 20 - Vero Vireo Cluster
28
Vero Vireo Cluster / Scrub and Stream Cluster
118 Environmental Learning Center 121 Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area

Nature center fronts on Indian River Lagoon, providing easy access Herb Kale Trail begins through hammock good for songbird
for educational adventures with lagoon's wildlife – birds included! migrants, and continues on to mangrove swamps and impound-
Waders galore, including roseate spoonbills and reddish egrets, ments. In impoundments, look for waders, shorebirds and ducks
use lagoon for food and shelter. Call for program schedules and from the trail or overlook.
reservations.
DIRECTIONS: Take US 1 S from Vero Beach to Oslo Rd. (9th
DIRECTIONS: From Vero Beach, take US 1 N to Wabasso. Turn St. SE). Turn left (E); site will be 0.5 mi. on left (N).
right (E) on CR 510. Cross causeway over Indian River. Turn right
on Wabasso Island Ln. BEFORE crossing over the tall bridge. Site Open sunrise to sunset. (772) 778-7200
is ahead, on right.
Open Tues.-Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
(4:00 p.m. in winter), Sun. 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (772) 589-5050
www.elcweb.org
* YEAR-ROUND
Map
*reservations needed for programs
119 Blue Cypress Conservation Area

21 Scrub and Stream Cluster
(map overleaf)
This property includes impounded marshes, harboring migratory

and resident ducks, as well as waders, including limpkins. Purple 122 Highlands Hammock State Park
gallinules have been seen, as have both bitterns, king rails, soras,
For scrub and flatwoods species, veer right after the entrance,
fulvous whistling ducks, snail kites and caracaras. Hike dike trails
through campground, and hike biking trails. Neotropical migrants
to view impoundments.
and waders can be seen by driving hammock loop. Cypress swamp
DIRECTIONS: From Vero Beach, take SR 60 W, 7.5 mi. past trail has unique catwalk through wetland with diversity of waders,
I-95. Turn right (N) on CR 512. Travel 1.5 mi.; turn left (W) into including wood storks.
parking area. DIRECTIONS: From US 27 on N side of Sebring, take Hammock
Open 24 hours a day. Road (CR 635) 3 mi. W to park entrance.
http://sjr.state.fl.us/ Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (863) 386-6094
120 Indian River County Wetlands Treatment

Facility 123 Istokpoga Park
These created wetlands have a boardwalk system, allowing easy Park is on N shore of massive Lake Istokpoga. When approaching
viewing of waders, 8 duck species, and water- and shorebirds from SE on SR 98, watch for caracaras. At park, scan boat basin
(moorhens, purple gallinules, king rails, soras, snipe, stilts and both for waders, including limpkins, and scope lake for wintering ducks.
yellowlegs, among others). Check in and out at office. Follow trail to E and then N along boardwalk through cypress
margin, watching for songbirds.
DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 60 /Vero Beach. Go E 1 light
to 90th Ave.; turn right (S). Go to 8th St. and turn left (E). Site is DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US 27 and SR 98, 4 mi. S of
approx. 0.75 mi. on right (S). Sebring, take SR 98 NE 8 mi. Site is on right (S), just E of Arbuckle
Creek bridge, in Lorida.
Mon.-Fri. 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weekends 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
by appointment. (772) 770-5045 Open sunrise to sunset. (863) 386-6812
29
Scrub and Stream Cluster / Caracara Cluster
124 Hickory Hammock

Map
On N side of SR 98 immediately W of Kissimmee River, barred,
barn, screech and great horned owls live around abandoned
schoolhouse at entrance. Second entrance to property is approx.
3 mi. NW on SR 98. Watch for scrub-jays on telephone wires, and
22 Caracara Cluster
burrowing owls, caracaras in pastures along US 98. Trail through

xeric hammock and scrub is on N side of the road. 126 127 Prairie Bird Loops
DIRECTIONS: Site is located between Sebring and Okeechobee Two driving loops give good overview of species seen in the area.
on SR 98, just W of the Kissimmee River. Watch for caracaras on fence posts, waders and shorebirds at
watering holes, burrowing owls and sandhill cranes in pastures,
Open sunrise to sunset. (941)462-5260 and swallow-tailed kites around hammocks. Remember to respect
private property.
DIRECTIONS: Long loop (if you'd like to visit Kissimmee Prairie
State Preserve): from Okeechobee, travel 15 mi. N on US 441 to
125 Lake June-in-Winter Scrub State Park CR 724 (Eagle Island Rd.). Turn left (W); go 12 mi. to CR 700A
(Durrance Rd.); turn left (S); go 6 mi. S on CR 700A to US 98; turn
This scrub sanctuary is nestled in the highlands of the Lake Wales
left (SE); go 15 mi. to SR 70 just W of Okeechobee.
Ridge. For scrub-jays, hike Bobcat Trail S from entrance gate. From
Short loop: Again, take US 441 N from Okeechobee; turn left (W)
parking area, brief Tomoka Trail runs through streamside hammock
after 9 mi., onto CR 68A (Potter Rd.). Becomes CR 68, and inter-
perfect for neotropical migrants; check lakefront for waders, ducks.
sects US 98 after 10 mi. Turn left (SE) on US 98; go14 mi. to SR
DIRECTIONS: Take US 27 N of Lake Placid to CR 621 (Lake June 70, just W of Okeechobee.
Rd.). Turn W and go 4 mi. to Dafadil Rd. Turn left (S) on Dafadil
Rd. Park is 2 mi. ahead at end of road. Public roads – unlimited access.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (863) 386-6094 YEAR-ROUND

Map 21 - Scrub and Stream Cluster
21
30
Caracara Cluster
128 Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park 129 Lock 7: Jaycee Park
One of last remaining dry prairies, home to caracaras and Florida A park beside Lake Okeechobee that has waders, and occasional
grasshopper sparrows. As you approach site, look in pastures on W flocks of thousands of skimmers in the parking lot in fall/winter.
side just prior to park entrance for burrowing owls. DO NOT ENTER Royal, caspian and least terns sometimes join them. Watch for
THIS PRIVATELY OWNED PROPERTY; YOU MAY ONLY VIEW brown pelicans, white pelicans, cormorants, anhingas, loons and
THESE OWLS FROM THE ROAD. In the park, hike Peavine Trail grebes offshore.
past Military Grade, to slough full of alligators and waders. Hiking
DIRECTIONS: From Okeechobee, take US 441 S 3 mi. to SR 78.
Military Grade to the W instead passes prime Florida grasshopper
Turn right (E); take an immediate left to cross over Hoover Dike.
sparrow habitat.
Site is immediately on lake side of dike.
DIRECTIONS: From Okeechobee, go N on US 441 to CR 724
(Eagle Island Rd.). Turn left (W); go 15 mi. to stop sign. Go past
stop sign 1 mi. to 192nd Ave. (Peavine Rd.). Turn right (N); go 5 mi.
to the site. YEAR-ROUND
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (863) 462-5360

www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/ 130 Okee -Tantie
Look for waders like wood storks in boat basins,
J F M A M J J A S O N D woodpeckers and songbirds in edges. From the
easternmost point, scope lake for ducks and view
blue heron rookery.
22
DIRECTIONS: Site is 5 mi. W of intersection
of SR 78 and US 441, on S side of road at
Kissimmee River bridge.
Open 24 hours a day. (800) 871-4403
YEAR-ROUND
Map 22 - Caracara Cluster

31
Sandhill Crane Cluster
132 Florida Ranch Tours

Map
23 Sandhill Crane Cluster SITE CLOSED

133 Ft. Pierce Inlet State Park
131 Indrio Savannahs Drive to end of entrance road, and bird SW tip for loafing shore-
birds on sand spits on W side of point. From ocean side, watch
Upon parking, bird the lake margins for snipe, waders and for plovers and willets, terns and gulls, and in winter, loons and
migratory ducks. Walk S across footbridge onto dike trail, through cormorants in surf. Trail beginning from the N end of beach
wetlands where bitterns, migratory ducks and waders can be found. parking area worth a peek in migration.
Explore uplands on the W side of lake, watching for neotropical
migrants in trees, scrub-jays in scrub. DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take Okeechobee Rd. (SR 70) E to
US 1. Turn N on US 1; go to SR A1A (North Beach Causeway).
DIRECTIONS: From Ft. Pierce, take US 1 N 4.0 mi. to Tozour Rd. Cross Lagoon on causeway. Follow signs to park on right (S) side
Turn left (W) on Tozour Rd. Entrance is at the N end of the road. of the road.
Open sunrise to sunset. (772) 462-2525 www.stlucieco.gov Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (561) 468-3985
23
Map 23 - Sandhill Crane Cluster
32
Sandhill Crane Cluster / Response Slip
134 Bear Point Sanctuary Birder I.D.

Site includes impoundments lined with mangroves on Indian River
Lagoon. Waders are common, and both night herons skulk in Name ______________________________________________
mangroves. Area can have good migratory songbird “fall-outs”
during spring return migration. Street ______________________________________________
DIRECTIONS: From US 1 in Ft. Pierce, go E on Seaway Drive,
across Indian River to S SR A1A. Site is approx. 2 mi. S on SR City ________________________________________________
A1A, on right (W) side of the road.
State _________ County ______________________________
Open 24 hours a day. (772) 462-1685
Country __________________ Zip _____________________
E-mail ______________________________________________
135 Pinelands Home phone _________________________________________

Watch for turkeys, bobwhites, wood storks and caracaras on drive
to site, and waders like glossy ibises in roadside wetlands. Park Work Phone _________________________________________
at entrance; hike dikes W and then S in series of loop trails.
MAIL-IN RESPONSE SLIP

Shorebirds like wetland margins; songbirds frequent pinelands.
Follow directions to this remote site carefully.
DIRECTIONS: From Ft. Pierce, go W on Okeechobee Rd. (SR 70)

Request for Information
16 mi. Turn left (S) just past the cellular tower onto V.P.I. Grove Rd.
Go 1.5 mi. to end of road; turn left (E). Go 1 mi. to entrance at the _____ Add my name to your mailing list
end.
_____ Send mailings electronically
Open sunrise to sunset. (772) 462-2525 www.stlucieco.gov
_____ Send a site nomination form – also available online *
_____ Send a Trail Sponsorship packet
136 Savannas Preserve State Park _____ Send a copy of Birding Trail brochure
Park at corral-fenced gate; hike property, through flatwoods to
_____ Send “Birdwatching Basics” – also available online *
savannah overlook at N end of trail, or tow canoe in and explore by
paddle. Wading birds nest throughout wetland, so please respect
congregations of birds and maintain a 300 -foot distance for their Other: ______________________________________________
well-being.
Cut along dotted line
____________________________________________________
DIRECTIONS: From Ft. Pierce, take US 1 S to Walton Rd. Travel
2 mi. E on Walton Rd. to corral-fenced parking area on the left (N) ____________________________________________________
side.
Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (772) 340-7530

✃
The Great Florida Birding Trail is a program of the

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
* www.floridabirdingtrail.com
33
Rate the Trail! For More Information...
Mail-In Response Form or to be added to the mailing list for the Great Florida
Birding Trail, fill in the response form at left (including
✎ Your country, state and county of origin ________________ your name and address on reverse side) and mail to:
_______________________________________________
Great Florida Birding Trail (or GFBT)
620 South Meridian Street
✎ Where did you hear about the Trail? __________________
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
_______________________________________________
✎ What is your goal in using the Trail? (eg: finding a specific

OR visit the Trail’s Web site at:
species of bird, seeing a diversity of birds or simply enjoying the www.floridabirdingtrail.com

MAIL-IN RESPONSE SLIP
outdoors). _______________________________________
_______________________________________________ Updates include news on the Trail's progress

and Trail-related birding events across the state.
_______________________________________________ Information also is available regarding Trail
sponsorship, site nominations for the upcoming
✎ How long have you had this guide?___________________ sections (West Florida, South Florida and Panhandle
sections), tips for better birding and the economic
✎ How many sites have you visited?____________________ impact of this flourishing pastime.
Take part in the development of this great new
✎ Which site was best? Why? ________________________ resource for birders of all levels, while enjoying and
_______________________________________________ ensuring continued concern for the conservation of
Florida’s fabulous avian treasures!
Cut along dotted line
✎ Which site was worst? Why? _______________________
_______________________________________________ Gateways
Gateways
This East Section of the Great Florida Birding Trail
✎ How many days have you spent birding in the last month? has three designated “gateway” sites which provide
_______________________________________________ more extensive Trail-related resources. They are:
✁
Ft. Clinch State Park (Nassau Co.), Merritt Island

✎ How long was your last birding trip on the East Florida Birding National Wildlife Refuge (Brevard Co.) and Tenoroc
Trail?___________________________________________
Fish Management Area (Polk Co.). Each site has
staff on hand to answer questions about the Trail,
✎ How much money did you spend on lodging, food and gas on kiosks with information about the Trail structure and
their visitor centers offer information about birding
the above birding trip? $_____________________________
classes and events occurring across the state. Hop
on the Trail at a Gateway and get off to a flying start!
✎ Will you recommend the Trail to friends?_______________
Loaner optics are available free of charge

Please detach and mail us your valued response
at all three Gateways! Ask at a Gateway
to the GFBT address at upper right. Thank you!
visitor center to try out a pair today!
34
Trail Tips
Trail Tips
When birding...
For the Birds!
The Great Florida Birding Trail helps everyone enjoy
and conserve Florida’s wildlife and wildlife habitat. A
• Take along water, sunscreen and bug spray. donation to the Wildlife Foundation of Florida will help
• Make reservations in advance for “by-appointment us expand and enhance the Trail experience. With
only” sites. your support, we can continue to protect Florida’s
natural resources for future generations to enjoy.
• Check seasonality of site; are you visiting at the
right time of year? If you would like to make a donation, please mail
check to:
Birding Ethics
GFBT
Don’t you hate it when the doorbell or telephone rings P.O. Box 6181
just as you settle down to dinner or a nap? While Tallahassee, FL 32314-6181
mere nuisances to us, disruptions in feeding and
nesting routines can spell disaster for birds, especially Note: Please make sure to make checks payable to
the cumulative effect of frequent disruptions, a com- the Wildlife Foundation of Florida.
mon occurence at busy sites. When a nesting bird is
forced to fly, it may leave eggs or young exposed to
Watch for the comprehensive Guide to the East
temperature extremes or predators. A migratory bird
may be exhausted and hungry from a long flight – it Florida Birding Trail in bookstores Fall 2002!
needs to rest and eat. With care and common sense,
birders can help protect the birds they love to watch.
Consider these points:
City Locator
• Stay back from concentrations of nesting or loafing
waterbirds – a spotting scope may be a better City Map No. City Map No.
choice than binoculars. Bunnell 7 Melbourne 19
• Walk around groups of birds on the beach rather Cocoa 15 New Smyrna Beach 9, 12
than forcing them to fly. Daytona Beach 9 Ocala 6
DeLeon Springs 9 Okeechobee 22
• Sit or crouch so that you appear smaller.
Deltona 9 Orlando 10, 13,14
• Keep movements slow and steady rather than fast Fernandina Beach 1 Ormond Beach 7
or sporadic.
Fort Pierce 23 Oviedo 11
• If viewing from your car, stay inside as long as Hilliard 2 Palatka 5
possible. It acts as a viewing “blind” and the birds Jacksonville 1, 3 Sebring 21
are less likely to fly if they don’t recognize you as Keystone Heights 3 St. Augustine 4
human.
Kissimmee 13 St. Cloud 4, 18
• Stay on roads, trails and paths to minimize habitat Lake Placid 21 Tavares 8
disturbance. Lake Wales 17 Titusville 12,15
• Do you occasionally use recordings to attract birds? Lakeland 16 Vero Beach 20
If so, remember not to overuse them, or to try to Leesburg 8 Winter Haven 17
attract rare or protected species.
35
EAST SECTION
How to Use this Guide

W e hope this guide will help you quickly and
easily identify East Section birding sites of
interest to you. Sites have met criteria ensuring
they are good for birdwatching, but also aren't
too sensitive to withstand birder use.
Maps show "clusters" of 5-10 sites within an

hour's drive of one another. The map at right
shows the locations of these clusters; the
number in each box corresponds to the map
number for that cluster. Descriptions and
directions for sites follow each cluster map.
You may want to use the maps in this guide
along with a larger map book, such as a
DeLorme Florida Atlas & Gazeteer.
Legend
Not a primary Trail site, but "Worth
A Visit" if you're already in an area
Best months for each will be shaded
Sites good for beginners

Best time of day for birding:
morning, evening, both
morning and evening,
and all day
Map Key (See reverse for City Locator)
Some viewing is barrier-free
1 Gannet Cluster 13 Natural Attractions Cluster
Tours, educational signage 2 St. Mary’s Cluster 14 Turkey Cluster
and/or nature center on site 3 Kestrel Cluster 15 Teal Cluster
4 Painted Bunting Cluster 16 Purple Gallinule Cluster
Entrance fee required
5 Upland Songbird Cluster 17 Ridge Cluster
Seasonal hunting on site 6 Limpkin Cluster 18 Whooping Crane Cluster
7 Warbler Hammocks Cluster 19 Migrant Fallout Cluster
Access by appointment only
8 Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster 20 Vero Vireo Cluster
9 Scrub-jay Cluster 21 Scrub and Stream Cluster
10 Tanager Cluster 22 Caracara Cluster
11 Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster 23 Sandhill Crane Cluster
12 River to Ocean Cluster
www.floridabirdingtrail.com

Great Florida Birding Trail Map - East Florida

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Great Florida Birding Trail Map - East Florida

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EAST SECTION

T The Great Florida Birding Trail

Florida Fish and Wildlife

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, go E from exit #373 10 mi.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 277-7274

* See “Gateways” on page 34 for more information

DIRECTIONS: Located 9 mi. S of Fernandina Beach

Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (904) 321-5082

Map 1 - Gannet Cluster

3 Amelia Island State Park 7 Cedar Point

4 Big Talbot Island State Park 8 Kingsley Plantation

5 Little Talbot Island State Park

6 E. Dale Joyner Nature Preserve at Pelotes 10 Huguenot Memorial Park

11 Ft. Caroline National Memorial and Theodore

Map 2 - St. Mary’s Cluster

14 Jennings State Forest

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 21 SE 6 mi. from Orange Park.

Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 291-5530

15 Gold Head Branch State Park

Unique ravine is haven to migratory songbirds in season,

DIRECTIONS: From Keystone Heights take SR 21 NE

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 473-4701

Map 3 - Kestrel Cluster

4 4 Painted Bunting Cluster

16 Guana River Wildlife Management

DIRECTIONS: From St. Augustine, take SR A1A N through

Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 825-6877

17 Guana River State Park

DIRECTIONS: From St. Augustine, take SR A1A N through

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 825-5071

18 St. Augustine Alligator Farm

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 16 (exit #318) and

Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (904) 824-3337

19 Anastasia State Park 22 Princess Place Preserve

20 Ft. Matanzas National Monument 23 Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

21 Faver-Dykes State Park

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Palm Coast, take US 1 (exit #298)

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 794-0997

25 Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 19 S from Palatka approx. 12 mi.

Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 329-2517

26 Welaka State Forest

DIRECTIONS: From Palatka, take SR 17 S 10 mi. to CR

Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 467-2388

27 Welaka National Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

DIRECTIONS: From SR 17 in Palatka, turn S on Moseley Ave.

DIRECTIONS: From I-75 S of Gainesville, take

Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 591-1435

30 Silver River State Park

DIRECTIONS: From I-75, take SR 40 E 10 mi.,

6 mi. to entrance on left (E).

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 236-7148

7 Warbler Hammocks Cluster

32 Haw Creek Preserve at Russell Landing 34 North Peninsula State Park

35 Tomoka State Park

Portions of this property will be closed

8 DIRECTIONS: From Weirsdale, take

Open sunrise to sunset.

DIRECTIONS: From Leesburg, take

8 Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster

44 Hontoon Island State Park Open sunrise to sunset. (386) 428-4589

45 Blue Spring State Park YEAR-ROUND

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386) 775-3663 www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/

DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take I-4 N/E to Lake Mary Blvd.