IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Pinelands Preserve is currently closed until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Pinelands Preserve is a 750-acre natural area located within St. Lucie County, Florida. It protects one of western St. Lucie County’s largest stands of pristine pine flatwoods. Visitors can enjoy six miles of well-maintained trails—spanning two loop systems—that wind through slash pine and cabbage palm forests, interspersed with seasonal depression marshes and wet prairie habitats. An elevated observation deck offers sweeping views over a scenic sawgrass marsh, and the preserve is part of Florida’s Great Florida Birding Trail, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.

For questions about guided hikes or group visits, contact St. Lucie County Environmental Resources at (772) 462-2526. Enjoy your adventure!

Driving Directions

If you're already in St. Lucie County:

• From Port St. Lucie, head north to Midway Road, then Midway Road until you connect with Okeechobee Road (State Road 70).
• Continue west on Okeechobee until you reach VPI Grove Road, then turn north (right).
• Drive about ½ mile, and you’ll see the preserve entrance on your left—signage, trailhead kiosk, and a small parking area mark the spot.
• For those coming from eastern Fort Pierce, take Okeechobee Road west, then turn north on VPI Grove and follow as above.
  
  

Amenities & Natural Features

• Trails: Six miles of multi-use trails across two loops—ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Observation Areas: Elevated platforms overlooking marshlands, perfect for photography and birdwatching.
• Habitats: A rich mosaic of wet pine flatwoods, marsh depressions, and seasonal wetlands.
• Wildlife: Common sightings include deer, wild hogs, meadowlarks, Sandhill Cranes, Wood Storks, Bald Eagles, barred owls, and cardinals.
• Recognition: Officially designated as a site on the Florida Great Birding Trail. Common sightings include deer, wild hogs, meadowlarks, sandhill cranes, wood storks, bald eagles, barred owls, and cardinals.
  
  

Historical Interest

In the 1930s, sections of the preserve were once cultivated for winter tomatoes. St. Lucie County held the status of being the nation’s top winter tomato producer at that time. Remnants of these agricultural fields remain, now providing forage for local wildlife.

Visitor Notes

• The preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
• Southern trails may be seasonally wet—visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and bring insect repellent.
• There are no restrooms or potable water on site—be sure to come prepared.
• Admission is free, and the area is intended for passive recreational use only.