From the St. Johns River Water Management District
In Summary:
The St. Johns River Water Management District manages over 778,000 acres of conservation lands across 18 counties, striking a balance between natural resource protection and free public recreation. These restored properties—many once agricultural or degraded lands—now serve as vital filters that improve water quality, store floodwaters, and replenish the Floridan aquifer, while offering diverse hiking opportunities through wetlands, floodplains, pine flatwoods, and marsh ecosystems. District Land Management Program Manager Jeremy Olson emphasizes that each acre serves a purpose, protecting water and wildlife while helping residents understand the link between healthy lands and clean water. Popular destinations such as Deep Creek, Seminole Ranch, Sunnyhill, and Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Areas showcase the District’s mission by connecting visitors with Florida’s natural systems and encouraging responsible outdoor exploration.
The District owns more than 778,000 acres of public lands across 18 counties, striking a balance between conservation and public recreation. These lands play a critical role in protecting water quality, storing and slowly releasing floodwaters, and replenishing the Floridan aquifer, the primary source of drinking water for millions of Floridians.
“Every acre the District manages has a purpose,” said District Land Management Program Manager Jeremy Olson. “Our properties not only protect water and wildlife, but they also give people an opportunity to experience and understand the connection between healthy lands and clean water.”
Many of the conservation areas now open for hiking were once agricultural or degraded lands that have been restored to wetlands, floodplains, and natural habitats. These restored systems act as natural filters, removing nutrients and sediments from stormwater before it reaches rivers, lakes, and springs.
Access to District lands is free. Whether you’re interested in a peaceful walk, birdwatching, or an all-day trek, District properties offer a variety of experiences for all skill levels. Some popular hiking destinations include:
- Lower St. Johns River Basin — Deep Creek Conservation Area (St. Johns County): Scenic trails through pine flatwoods and along blackwater streams that help filter water flowing to the St. Johns River.
- Middle St. Johns River Basin — Seminole Ranch Conservation Area (Orange/Seminole counties): More than 30 miles of trails through floodplain forests, wetlands, and pasturelands along the St. Johns River.
- Ocklawaha River Basin — Sunnyhill Restoration Area (Marion County): Miles of multiuse trails along the restored Ocklawaha River floodplain, an important area for groundwater recharge and wildlife habitat.
- Indian River Lagoon and Upper St. Johns River Basin — Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area (Indian River County): Protects headwaters of the St. Johns River while offering miles of trails through marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood swamps.
Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible recreation by staying on designated trails, packing out all trash, and respecting wildlife.
The District’s mission is to protect and ensure the sustainable use of Florida’s water resources through water supply planning, conservation, and protection of springs and natural systems. By offering free public access to conservation lands, the District helps foster a deeper appreciation for the natural systems that protect the water we all depend on.
To find a trail near you and plan your visit, go to www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation for property maps, amenities, and seasonal updates.
Key Points
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The District manages more than 778,000 acres of public conservation lands across 18 counties, offering free access for hiking and outdoor recreation.
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These lands play a crucial role in protecting water quality, storing floodwaters, and recharging the Floridan aquifer—Florida’s primary drinking water source.
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Many hiking areas were once agricultural or degraded lands that have been restored to natural wetlands, floodplains, and wildlife habitats.
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Popular District hiking destinations include Deep Creek, Seminole Ranch, Sunnyhill Restoration Area, and Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area.
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The District promotes responsible recreation and works to protect Florida’s water resources through conservation, water supply planning, and natural systems protection.
