Blue Cypress Lake remains one of Florida’s most stunning hidden gems. As you paddle, you’ll navigate a forest of bald cypress trees shooting out from the water.
This is because the lake is the headwater of the St. Johns River, a major player in Florida’s ecosystems.
To see the most scenic vistas, paddle clockwise north along the shoreline. Surrounded by the trees, which jut far out into the center of the lake, it feels like you’re paddling on a cypress swamp rather than a lake.
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled as you gaze at the trees. Blue Cypress Lake is home to over 200 osprey nests! There are so many, we think this is an undercount!
Blue Cypress Lake is a bit off the beaten path and hard to find. Simply head west on SR 60 from Vero Beach. After 18 miles, turn right (north) at the Blue Cypress Lake sign.
The sign is very small and easy to miss, so keep your eye out for it on the right side of the road. Follow the dirt road for another 4.5 miles to park at Middleton’s Fish Camp, where you’ll find the boat launch.
