Best Backpacking Destinations in Port St. Lucie, Florida, United States
1. Taylor Creek Environmental Center
Offers guided canoe trips and wildlife viewing in the St. Lucie River estuary.
- Guided Trips: Professional guides provide educational insights during the trip.
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including manatees and multiple bird species.
- Environmental Education: Promotes environmental stewardship through educational programs.
2. Hutchinson Island Beach State Park
Beautiful beach and campground with ocean access for kayaking and fishing.
- Ocean Access: Direct access to the Atlantic Ocean for water activities.
- Camping: Modern campsites with amenities and stunning ocean views.
- Fishing and Kayaking: Opportunity to fish from the beach or launch a kayak for coastal exploration.
3. Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserve
Protected area with mangrove forests and abundant wildlife for paddleboarding or kayaking.
- Abundant Wildlife: Chance to observe various marine species, such as dolphins, manatees, and birds.
- Mangrove Forests: Explore unique ecosystems teeming with diverse plant and animal life.
- Protected Area: Preservation efforts ensure the area's health and longevity for future generations.
4. St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
Nature reserve with diverse habitats, including salt marshes and sand dunes.
- Diverse Habitats: Experience a variety of ecosystems in one location.
- Birdwatching: Opportunity to observe a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat.
- Coastal Scenery: Beautiful ocean views and coastal landscapes along the trail.
5. Saint Lucie River Kayak Trail
Paddling trail with historical sites and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Historical Sites: Pass by historic landmarks and learn about the region's history.
- Wildlife Viewing: Chance to observe diverse wildlife, including alligators, birds, and fish.
- Paddling Trails: Well-marked trails make navigation easy and enjoyable.
6. Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Beautiful park with a beach, fishing pier, and campground.
- Beach Access: Enjoy sun, sand, and surf on the pristine beach.
- Fishing Pier: Cast a line from the pier for a chance to catch a variety of fish species.
- Camping: Modern campsites with amenities and ocean views.
7. Savannas Preserve State Park
Preserved savanna habitat with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and camping.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the unique ecosystem of Florida's coastal savannas.
- Wildlife Viewing: Chance to observe a variety of wildlife, such as gopher tortoises and birds.
- Camping: Enjoy a primitive camping experience in the heart of the savanna.
8. Saint Lucie Nuclear Power Tower Trail
Historic site and scenic trail with panoramic views of the region.
- Historic Site: Learn about the area's nuclear energy history.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Port St. Lucie and the surrounding region.
- Trail System: Explore various trails that cater to different skill levels.
9. Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens
Beautiful gardens with diverse plant species and educational programs.
- Diverse Plant Species: Explore a variety of plant life, including native and exotic species.
- Educational Programs: Learn about horticulture, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
- Scenic Beauty: Relax in a peaceful and picturesque setting.
10. Manatee Observation and Education Center
Educational center dedicated to the conservation of manatees.
- Manatee Conservation: Learn about the importance of manatee conservation and recovery efforts.
- Observation Area: View manatees up close through viewing windows and a boardwalk system.
- Educational Programs: Attend talks, workshops, and guided tours to learn more about manatees.
11. St. Lucie River Park
Park with walking trails, picnic areas, and boat ramp access.
- Walking Trails: Explore the riverfront on various walking trails.
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal in one of the park's picnic areas.
- Boat Ramp Access: Launch your boat and explore the St. Lucie River.
12. Fort Pierce Jetty Park
Beautiful park with a fishing pier, boat ramp, and picnic areas.
- Fishing Pier: Cast a line from the pier for a chance to catch a variety of fish species.
- Boat Ramp Access: Launch your boat and explore the Intercoastal Waterway.
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal in one of the park's picnic areas while taking in the views.
13. Maxwell Graham Wildlife Preserve
Preserve with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails through diverse habitats.
- Wildlife Viewing: Chance to observe a variety of wildlife, such as alligators, birds, and turtles.
- Preserve Habitats: Protect and conserve diverse habitats for future generations.
14. Port St. Lucie Civic Center Park
Park with a variety of amenities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Sports Fields: Play your favorite sport on the park's sports fields.
- Playgrounds: Enjoy time with kids at one of the park's playgrounds.
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal in one of the park's picnic areas while taking in the views.
15. A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery
Museum dedicated to the works of Florida artist A.E. Backus and his contemporaries.
- Florida Art History: Learn about the history and evolution of Florida's art scene.
- Permanent Collection: View a collection of over 4,000 works by A.E. Backus and his contemporaries.
- Temporary Exhibits: Attend exhibitions featuring emerging artists and special collections.