About this property
The Murphy Creek Conservation Area is predominantly hardwood swamps associated with Murphy Creek and the St. Johns River, with the limited uplands containing sandhill, flatwoods and hardwood hammock. The Murphy Creek and Murphy Island parcels that make up this conservation area protect the water resources of both the St. Johns River and Murphy Creek. The island portion contains one of the few upland areas along the St. Johns River, providing visitors an opportunity for a spectacular view of the river.
One of the special highlights of this property is that it is divided by Murphy Creek. Visitors will need a boat to access the island trails, accessible from a dock along the St. Johns River. A parking area off County Road 309 (known locally as East Buffalo Bluff Road) provides access to a second hiking trail.
Access
Near Satsuma. Access to Murphy Island is by boat only. For details and to get driving directions from your location, see the Google Maps link on this page.
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. Bald eagles, gopher tortoises, Virginia opossums, white-tailed deer, bobcats and foxes. Numerous waterfowl and wading birds can be found in the wetlands.
Recreational activities
- Hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and nature study.
- Primitive camping is allowed only at designated sites on the island; no camping on the inland portion.
- Murphy Island contains a boat landing, more than six miles of hiking trails and a primitive campsite.
- Boating and canoeing opportunities are available on Murphy Creek and the St. Johns River, and the property is accessible by water; however, there are no launches located on the property.