Blue Cypress Conservation Area

Part of the upper St. Johns River Basin, these conservation lands feature impounded marshes good for migratory and resident ducks, wading birds and raptors. Limpkin, American Bittern and Least Bittern are possible at this site, as are Purple Gallinule, King Rail, Sora, Fulvous Whistling-Duck, Snail Kite and Crested Caracara. Watch for Wood Stork, Bald Eagle and Osprey as well. From the parking area off CR 512, you may hike several trails–check the kiosk map to decide which is right for you. Choosing one of the westbound dikes offers more remote, sometimes higher-quality birding. However, these paths are narrower with irregular surfaces. The north-south dike offers a wider, smoother walking surface, although the path is more exposed and birds are harder to spot. This site is best in fall, winter and spring. Summer is hot on the exposed dikes and the mosquitoes can be challenging. Seasonal hunting occurs in the vicinity but not on the levees; please click here for dates, regulations and more information. Also, there are airboats in the canals at times, so be careful if you choose to canoe. Handicapped access is available at the CR 512 entrance.