Main Page - Fort Pierce Inlet State Park

Manager's Message

The Beach Star is back! Our park is home to an endangered species called the Beach Star. This is a low lying sedge that grows on the beach dunes. This plant was thought to have been lost after the hurricanes of 2004, but alas, we have found it again! It is flourishing along the areas of the boardwalks and the open areas of the dunes.

Work will begin soon on repairs and enhancements to our boardwalks. And, much preparation must be made, including transplanting some of these Beach Stars. We expect a high success rate with the transplanting and have great hope for the species.

Spring is the start of sea turtle nesting season. There are three turtles that regularly nest on our beaches including the leatherback, loggerhead, and green sea turtles. They start nesting in this respective order. The leatherback is the largest and rarer of the turtles. The loggerhead, a smaller variety, is still up to 350 pounds! The green, a bit bigger, was almost hunted to extinction for its meat and beautiful shell; their numbers are finally climbing again. If you would like to know more about sea turtles, please inquire about an interpretive program at the Ranger Station (772) 468-3985.

We are now seeking volunteer applications for the 2008 summer & early fall seasons. Do you have your own RV? Do you enjoy volunteering to help our state parks? Summer is our busiest season... and the park is packed! If you are interested in volunteering during the summer months (May-November), please contact Tessa Sheridan at (772) 519-2135 for more information.

Remember that our lifeguard season doesn’t start until Memorial Day. Please keep an eye on children and poor swimmers at all times. Swim at your own risk and have a safe and enjoyable visit!

If you are new to the area or just visiting you may be unsure of the newest fishing regulations. Stop and ask at the Ranger Station for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission fishing regulations. These are available for your convenience in both English and Spanish versions.

Be Aware! From time-to-time, Man-of-War wash onto the beach. These are a type of jellyfish and can pack a mean punch. They are bluish in color and have a top like a sail. It resembles a balloon which allows them to float and interests small children or the unknowing. Please do not handle Man-of-War! If stung, notify a Park Ranger or stop by the Ranger Station. A solution of water and vinegar may be applied to neutralize the sting.

Visitors to the park should also be prepared with sunscreen, water and insect repellent to make their visit more enjoyable.

Come on in and enjoy “…the Real Florida!”

- Steve Eibl, Park Manager

Welcome to Fort Pierce Inlet State Park

The shores and coastal waters at this park provide an abundance of recreational opportunities. The breathtakingly beautiful half-mile beach welcomes visitors for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving. Beachcombing, picnicking, or just relaxing on the sand are also popular activities. Dynamite Point was once the training site for WWII Navy Frogmen, but is now a haven for birdwatchers. Along the south end of the park, Fort Pierce Inlet is a popular place for anglers to catch their dinners. Jack Island Preserve, located one mile north of the park, has trails for hiking, bicycling, and nature study. At the west end of the Marsh Rabbit Run Trail, visitors can climb an observation tower to get a bird's-eye view of Indian River and the island. A primitive youth/group campground is available on a reservation basis; please call the park. Located four miles east of Fort Pierce, via North Causeway.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, please call 772-468-3985.