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River Lakes Conservation Area
Trail Guide MapQuest Location (Boat Ramp) Property Map Location MapSize:
Approximately 36,156 acres.
Location:
From State Road (SR) 520 to U.S. 192 in Brevard and Osceola counties, it includes those lands in District ownership along the floodplain of the St. Johns River.
Description:
This conservation area includes lakes Washington, Winder and Poinsett. St. Johns River water flow is regulated at one point — a fixed-crest weir located just north of Lake Washington — to help ensure water supply to Melbourne. The area contains extensive wetland communities, typically dominated by emergent species such as saw grass, smartweed, arrowhead and maidencane.
Wildlife viewing:
This area provides important habitat for fish and wildlife populations, including several listed species: wood storks, bald eagles, Florida sandhill cranes and river otters. The diversity of fish and wildlife provides an important recreational resource for anglers, hunters, boaters and bird-watchers.
Recreational activities:
- Seasonal hunting (the entire area is part of the Upper St. Johns River Marsh Wildlife Management Area), fishing, hiking, bicycling, primitive camping at designated sites, canoeing, boating and wildlife viewing. more info
- Lake Washington County Park provides picnic pavilions, restrooms, a fishing pier and boat/canoe and airboat ramps.
- Two shelters are located in this conservation area. The shelters are for day-use only, for picnicking or protection from the weather.
Restrictions: more info
- Off-road vehicles (including motorcycles and all-terrain or track vehicles) are not allowed on property.
Access:
Primarily by water as indicated on map for this property (link above). Boat ramps are available on SR 520, on U.S. 192 and at Lake Washington County Park.
For more information:
Call the District’s Division of Land Management at (386) 329-4404. For hunting information, click HERE.