Lake Monroe Conservation Area
This conservation area is mostly wetlands, including much of Lake Munroe’s floodplain and over three miles of shoreline along both Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. The site offers exceptional habitat for both resident and migratory waterfowl, wood storks, wading birds, and shorebirds. Other frequent sightings include sandhill cranes, bald eagles, wild turkeys, ospreys, deer, and numerous alligators. The northeastern section of the property features sandy scrub, providing a habitat for Florida Scrub-jays. We recommend visiting two areas within the conservation zone: Brickyard Slough and the Kratzert Tract, both of which offer stunning views of the open floodplain marsh and are just a two minute drive apart.
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Sites At This Location
Kratzert Tract
Although this property is largely composed of freshwater wetlands, a mile long multi-use trail on slightly higher topography provides a different experience than the surrounding marshes. The best birding here is in spring and fall. Start by picking up a map at the entrance kiosk and hike the loop trail through hardwood/sabal palm hammock and longleaf pine restoration plots. Swallow-tailed Kites and Blue Grosbeaks have nested here in the past. Migratory songbirds include Gray-cheeked Thrushes, Ovenbirds and Louisiana Waterthrushes. Expect resident woodpeckers such as Downy and Pileated, and in summer nesting Northern Parula and White-eyed Vireo. Sandhill Cranes are possible. Primitive camping is permissible via a separate foot trail located off SR 415. Mosquitoes can be bad so come prepared. Seasonal hunting may take place when the lake drops below the average water level; call ahead for more information.
Site Information
This Site is Free to Enter
Managing Agency
St. Johns River Water Management District
Operational Hours: sunrise to sundown
Size: 3,086 acres
Brickyard Slough
On the eastern shore of Lake Monroe (and bordering the St. Johns River) is a spot you don’t want to overlook. Most of the habitat here is wetlands (including freshwater marsh, wet prairie, hydric hammock, cypress swamp and bay swamp), which serve as a regionally important Florida Black Bear corridor. Miles of trails provide a great all-day birding experience. From the parking area, take the red trail south for 2 miles down to the river. Watch for Least Bitterns and Black-crowned Night- Herons. Glossy Ibises, Wood Storks and King Rails can be found in the marshes year-round, and American Pipits in winter. American White Pelicans and both Spotted and Solitary Sandpipers may be seen in spring. Take the 6 mile yellow trail to access higher and drier habitats on the east side of the tract, including longleaf pine forest, scrubby flatwoods and pastures. Look for Florida Scrub-Jays, Sandhill Cranes, Loggerhead Shrikes and Bachman’s Sparrows. Crested Caracara, Short-tailed Hawk, and Barn Owl have been recorded. Portions of the property may be flooded at times. Boat ramps to explore the St. Johns River are available at SR 46 and Lemon Bluff Rd. A walk-in trailhead is also present on Lemon Bluff Rd. off SR 415. Primitive camping is allowed at the river; maps are available at the entrance kiosk. Seasonal hunting may take place when the lake drops below the average water level; call ahead for more information.
Site Information
This Site is Free to Enter
Managing Agency
St. Johns River Water Management District
Operational Hours: sunrise to sundown
Size: 4,417 acres
