Heart Island Conservation Area in Volusia County spans 13,645 acres of protected land where restoration, conservation and recreation come together.
Acquired by the St. Johns River Water Management District in 1994, this property plays an important role in protecting the water resources of Deep Creek, Crescent Lake and Lake George, restoring native habitats and preserving a piece of Florida’s natural landscape for future generations. Once heavily managed for timber resources, the District has focused on planting longleaf pine, rather than the faster growing slash pine, in suitable habitats to restore the area’s appropriate plant communities.
Today, the conservation area supports a rich mosaic of natural communities, including basin swamp, floodplain swamp, basin marsh, baygall, blackwater stream, hydric hammock, mesic flatwoods and scrub. Upland areas are characterized by longleaf and slash pine with an undergrowth of saw palmetto and gallberry, while wetter areas feature hardwoods, cabbage palms, cypress, sweetbay, loblolly bay and wax myrtle thickets.
It’s also part of an interconnected landscape that includes the Ocala National Forest, Lake George State Forest and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Together, they help create a corridor for wildlife and a buffer for important water resources across Volusia and Flagler counties.
For those looking to explore, nearly 5 miles of marked trails wind through the conservation area, perfect for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Shaded picnic spots beneath towering trees provide the perfect place to pause and take in the surroundings, while a reservable primitive tent-only campsite offers a chance to unplug and experience the land without modern distractions. Also, portions of Heart Island are within the Lake George Wildlife Management Area, offering public hunting opportunities through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
More than just a place to visit, Heart Island Conservation Area is a prime example of how thoughtful land management can restore ecosystems and protect vital natural resources. Every visit offers something new, whether it’s a quiet moment on the trail, a glimpse of wildlife or a deeper appreciation for Florida’s natural landscapes.
Plan your visit and explore trail maps, directions and recreation details here: www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/heart-island.
