Indian River Lagoon

Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park

Protecting the watershed of the Indian River Lagoon

Hours

Open 8 a.m. to sunset 

Fees

No fee required

Location

Off U.S. Highway A1A
Indian River FL 32951

Get directions

Contact Info

321-984-4852

Welcome to Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park

Located on a barrier island south of Melbourne, this preserve protects the watershed of the Indian River Lagoon. 

The most biologically diverse estuary in North America, the lagoon has been designated an Outstanding Florida Water and an Estuary of National Significance. The site's mangrove wetlands and salt marshes filter runoff, stabilize sediments, maintain water quality and protect shorelines from erosion. 

This site is currently open, however, it has limited facilities. It is undergoing an aggressive restoration program to remove invasive plants and reintroduce native species.

Plan Your Visit

Brian Polk, Park Manager
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Manager's Message

Ospreys, great blue herons and eagles have recently been spotted by staff working at the preserve. The land encompassed by the preserve was purchased primarily to protect the watershed of the Indian River Lagoon. 
Explore Florida State Parks
Initiative

Every Stamp Is A Story

We invite you to visit any one of our amazing state parks, and to save your adventures with the Special Edition Real Florida Passport. This travel-sized journal is the perfect place to collect your memories and discover new places to explore! Each Florida State Park has a unique stamp and story.
Annual Pass displayed over water and sky.
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Florida State Parks Annual Pass

Annual entrance passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year.

Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park Photo Gallery

Otter at Indian River Lagoon State Park
Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park_2
Flowers at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Bobcat at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Crab at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Salt Marsh Skipper at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Southern Great Whites at Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Indian River Lagoon during sunset
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Ecology of the Indian River Lagoon

Considered one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America, the lagoon has been designated an Outstanding Florida Water and an Estuary of National Significance.
Metal sign of Restoration of the Indian River Lagoon
Learn

Restoration of Indian River Lagoon Preserve

Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park is actively undergoing environmental restoration. Once a thriving natural spot along Florida’s coastal barrier island in Melbourne Beach, this 500-acre tract of land was first developed to grow pineapples in the 1880s.

People Make the Parks

Exotic Plant Specialist Jeff Thomas smiling at the camera

Staff Spotlight

One of Jeff Thomas' passions is plants. Whether in Florida, or Indiana where he moved as a young man, he’s always worked with plants. 
Volunteer

Volunteer with us!

Help fulfill the Florida State Parks' mission. Assist park employees to preserve, interpret and restore ...the Real Florida.
Florida State Parks Foundation

Florida State Parks Foundation

The statewide nonprofit partner meeting critical funding needs for universal access, conservation, education and preservation.

Park Map

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