Delaplane Preserve Park

Great fast an friendly service

Nice walk

Delaplane Preserve is a 51 acre preserve located along the south fork of the St. Lucie River. Although it is large only a small part of it is accessible. There is a 6 car parking lot. From there you hike a 1/4 mile hard packed gravel trail through live oaks and cabbage palms before you get to the river where there is a fishing dock, canoe and kayak launch, and picnic tables. Adjacent to the dock is a tree with a rope swing. According to the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, the river is pretty polluted so I don't know if it's advisable to swim. The Martin County Public Works Department has restored the wetlands and native plants and are working to remove the exotic plants although I did see quite a few of them.

The preserve is home to the threatened gopher tortoise and while I didn't spot any I did come across two rabbits by the river. There are a number of nature preserves in the area. While this preserve isn't a destination by itself, when combined with the other natural areas nearby it can become a wonderful afternoon visiting the nature of Martin County.

Nice stroll through the marsh lands. Bug's can kick your axx later in the evening. I have heard from others that Florida panthers are in the vicinity. TAKE THIS SERIOUS. Make sure you stay on the path due to the fact that there is a lot of poison ivy and poison oak around. Local knowledge is the best information one can receive. Enjoy.

Beautiful gentle walking trail through protected flatwoods to the blackwater South Fork of the St. Lucie River. Accessible from both road and water with a nice dock and boat ramp on the South Fork.

Nice place to stop and take a break from exploring the South Fork on our Hobie kayaks. I will have to come back by land someday.