I have lived in Stuart for over twenty years and I never knew this place existed. The Delaplane Preserve in Stuart, Florida is a 51-acre preserve that has a short quarter-mile nature trail that leads to the South Fork of the St. Lucie River.

Nature Trail

One of the first stops along the nature trail is home to the Gopher tortoise. These tortoises dig sandy homes 20 feet into the ground and are an endangered species. They are critical to the overall health of this area.

Kayak or Canoe

When you get to the river there is a fishing dock and canoe/kayak launch. If you are launching, you will have to carry your vessel from the parking lot to the launch point.

Perfect for a Picnic

Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy when you get to the river. There is a picnic table to sit and enjoy the waterway, the wildflowers, and all the native plants that surround you.

The Delaplane Preserve offers a chance for visitors to get to know Florida in its beautiful natural state. In addition to cabbage palms, there are many wildflowers along the trail.

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The Delaplane Preserve is located at 6084 SW Gaines Avenue in Stuart, Florida. 

Can’t get enough parks?

Martin County is home to many parks in the area. Here are a few of my favorites:

Indian Riverside Park located along the Indian River Lagoon. Indian Riverside Park offers an interactive play fountain, a beach, a fishing pier, and walking paths.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a Florida State Park and historic site located in Martin County, Florida. It is the largest park in Southeast Florida.

Shepard’s Park is one of Stuart’s best spots to watch the sun sink into the St. Lucie River.