Nature

Pine Island Conservation Area

This 880-acre conservation area provides access to the trailhead 0.5 miles from the main entrance, which leads to over 7 miles of trails. These moderate walks lead through pine flatwoods and hydric hammock habitats and along the restored salt marsh habitats.

Conservation

The Environmentally Endangered Lands Program and the St. Johns River Water Management District jointly own the approximately 900-acre Pine Island Conservation Area which includes the Sams House Education and Management Center.

Hiking Trails

Enjoy a walk through a mangrove swamp and live oak hammock to reach the Indian River Lagoon, or hike the rugged Garnet Trail north to the Pine Island Road trailhead.

Wildlife

Sams House at Pine Island, located on Merritt Island, Florida, is a great place to observe various wildlife. The area is known for its diverse habitats, including pine flatwoods, mangrove forests, and marshes, which support a wide array of animals.

Visitors can spot wading birds, bald eagles, alligators, manatees, and bobcats, as well as smaller creatures like gopher tortoises, armadillos, and numerous lizards and snakes.