Blue Cypress Conservation Area

About this property

This conservation area is part of the Upper St. Johns River Basin Project implemented by the district and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Now considered to be in long-term maintenance phase, this project helps reduce flooding, restore and maintain natural hydrologic cycles and protect water quality. It also reduces freshwater diversions to the Indian River Lagoon estuary and enhances native habitat for fish and wildlife. Blue Cypress Lake and Kenansville Lake are located on the western portion of the conservation area. The conservation area contains a mosaic of wetland communities (including open water systems and floodplain marsh) and is dominated by maidencane, sawgrass, willows and buttonbush, scattered with tree islands and cypress domes. It is one of the most undisturbed areas in the headwaters of the St. Johns River and contains the largest remnant marsh of its type in the region.

Special highlights of this property include the pond cypress domes that are scattered throughout the open water and big sky vistas located on the eastern side of the conservation area (known as the “Ansin East” parcel). Another sight not to be missed is the expansive, intact sawgrass marsh habitat on the eastern side of Blue Cypress Lake.

Wildlife viewing

Please respect Florida’s wildlife and use caution while visiting district lands. These are wild animals. For your safety, do not approach or feed any wild animal. The eastern portion of the area contains foraging and nesting habitat for the listed snail kite. Wetland-dependent species found here include great blue herons, white ibis, snowy egrets, limpkins and night herons. Other species include wood storks, ospreys and bald eagles.

Recreational activities

1. Wildlife viewing, fishing, seasonal hunting, bicycling and hiking along many miles of levees, primitive camping at designated sites, canoeing and boating.
2. Airboat tour ride concessionaire are located at the “512 Recreation Area” (by appointment with independent vendors).

Access

The property has multiple access points and parking areas. For details and to get driving directions from your location, see the Google Maps links on this page.

Please note: The area along the L-77 West Levee, also known as Lake Garcia, has been designated an idle speed zone.

• Fellsmere Grade Recreation Area (also known as the Stick Marsh)
• 512 Rec Pad (also known as Blue Cypress Recreation Area)