Resources
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Exploring Vero Beach
An important stop for early sailors along the Indian River Lagoon south of Sebastian, Vero Beach drew national attention thanks to the Audubon Society and its efforts to preserve vanishing bird species from over-hunting.
In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt designated Pelican Island as the first federal bird reservation. That act lead to the creation of the National Wildlife Refuge System across America.
Vero Beach blossomed soon after, in the 1920s, with the arrival of Waldo Sexton. Literally.
While transforming the waterfront community into a winter destination, he was keen on accenting its tropical feel with tropical gardens. McKee Jungle Gardens was born.
Parks and trails in Vero Beach cluster close to the Indian River Lagoon, where the perpetual humidity encourages Florida’s native tropical species to thrive.
One of the best ways to step back in time is to follow the shellrock surface of Jungle Trail south from Pelican Island NWR to Captain Forster’s Hammock, a slow waterfront drive that makes a great bike trip as well.
Trails and Parks near Vero Beach
D.J. Wilcox Preserve Discover the natural beauty of a mosaic of habitats nourished by a freshwater spring near the Indian River Lagoon at what was once the town of Indrio.
Fellsmere Trailhead Preserve Immediately west of Interstate 95 at the Sebastian/Fellsmere exit, Fellsmere Trailhead Preserve provides a nature break for travelers and a trailhead for recreation
Fort Drum Marsh Headwaters of the St. Johns River, Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area covers more than 20,000 acres, but this hike zeroes in on Horseshoe Lake and Hog Island near Yeehaw Junction. 
Hallstrom Farmstead Encircling the historic Hallstrom House, sand pine scrub provides a unique habitat for a rare and endangered species of native mint along this 1.4 mile loop.
Indian River Lagoon Greenway A scenic trek in Vero Beach to an observation deck on the Indian River Lagoon provides the option of longer immersion in the coastal mangrove forest.
Indrio Savannahs Preserve A haven for wildlife dependent on fresh water savannas scarcely a mile west of the Indian River Lagoon, Indrio Savannahs illustrates a success story in habitat restoration.
Indrio Scrub Preserve Atop the Atlantic Coastal Ridge, Indrio Scrub Preserve is a place where unique scrub species thrive. A short interpretive loop trail leads through the preserve.
Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area Lush tropical hammocks, great birding, and a dash of history along the Indian River Lagoon make Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area a diverse and interesting place to explore.
Oyster Bar Marsh Conservation Area Boardwalks and a wide perimeter trail explore coastal mangrove forests and scenic overlooks on the eastern shore of the Indian River Lagoon.
Pelican Island Centennial Trail Designed the first Federal Bird Reserve in 1903, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge celebrated its century mark by creating this short, scenic, accessible trail for birding.
Pelican Island NWR The birthplace of the National Wildlife Refuge system, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge protects more than 5,400 acres along and in the Indian River Lagoon off Sebastian.
Round Island Oceanfront Park Learn the story of one of Florida's more important roles during World War II along a wave-strummed shoreline halfway between Vero Beach and Fort Pierce Inlet.
Round Island Riverside Park Trails, boardwalks, and a boat launch on Round Island provide excellent opportunities to explore coastal habitats and spot manatees in the Indian River Lagoon.
Sebastian Inlet State Park One of few places where the Indian River Lagoon mingles with the Atlantic Ocean, Sebastian Inlet is the central feature of a state park protecting the tips of both barrier islands.
South Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area On a 1.4 mile loop south of Vero Beach, wind through a blend of natural landscapes near the Indian River, from coastal hammocks to scrub and mesic pine flatwoods.
Toni Robinson Waterfront Trail An array of wild landscapes is on display along a wide pathway between upland oak forests to a mangrove swamp boardwalk and pier overlooking the Indian River Lagoon.
Wabasso Scrub Conservation Area A network of crisscrossing unmarked trails invites nature enthusiasts to observe endangered plants and animals on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in south Sebastian.