Fort Drum Conservation Area
WEBSITE:
http://myfwc.com/recreation/cooperative/fort_drum.asp

The St. Johns River Water Management District manages the Fort Drum Conservation Area as part of the headwaters of the St. Johns River.  The Conservation Area contains approximately 21,000 acres of various natural habitats including dry prairie, pine flatwoods, forested hardwood swamp and freshwater marsh.  Part of the Area is leased as pastureland for cattle.

The mix of ecosystems provides a rich assortment of wildlife viewing opportunities.  Species one may encounter include the Sandhill Crane, the Snail Kite, Sherman’s Fox Squirrel, Crested Caracara, White-tailed Deer, Coyote, American Kestrel, Bald Eagle, Wild Turkey, Raccoon, Eastern Indigo Snake, Gopher Tortoise, Nine-banded Armadillo, along with prevalent Alligators and a chance observation of the Florida Black Bear.

A less desirable species is the Feral Hog, a remnant of Florida’s frontier past when early explorers and settlers allowed their livestock to roam free until needed.  Inevitably, many of these animals became wild, or feral, becoming a problem for modern Florida as these non-native species are usually harmful to the environment as is the case with the Feral Hog whose destructive rooting for food devastates natural areas.

To reach Fort Drum from Vero Beach, go west on Route 60 to the Twenty-Mile Bend and look for the sign on the south side of the road at the entrance to the Conservation Area.  Cars may part at either Lake Cara, or with a permit, at Horseshoe Lake.  Pavilions and portable toilets are available at both sites but there are no drinking fountains.  There are hiking trails including a boardwalk through a hardwood swamp to reach Hog Island.  Besides hiking, other activities at the Area include picnicking, horseback riding, fishing, bicycling, camping, canoeing/kayaking, and seasonal hunting.  There is no visitor center but informational kiosks are located around the parking areas.  Visitors should bring everything they will need for a visit in the way of food, water, and sun protection.  For more information, contact the St. Johns River Water Management District at 386-329-4404.

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