Eco-Friendly Adventures in Indian River County
April is Earth Month, and here in Indian River County, it’s the perfect time to head outside and enjoy all the natural beauty this area has to offer. With spring in full swing, you’ll notice an increase in wildlife activity—nesting birds, curious baby animals, and a fresh burst of energy from our local ecosystems. Whether you're out on the water, exploring a trail, or simply soaking in a sunset, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and do your part to protect them.
Eco-Adventures on the Water
Eco-tourism plays a big role in what makes Indian River County so special. It’s easy to enjoy outdoor adventures while being mindful of the environment. A great place to start is the Indian River Lagoon—one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America. Take a paddleboard tour with Paddles by the Sea, book a guided kayak excursion through the mangrove tunnels with the Environmental Learning Center, or hop aboard a scenic river cruise with Captain Hiram’s to experience the water in a way that’s both fun and environmentally friendly.
Explore Trails, Preserves, and Wildlife Safely
If you prefer to keep your adventures on solid ground, spring is the perfect time to explore Indian River County’s scenic trails and preserves. Take a stroll or bike ride through spots like the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area, Captain Forster Hammock Preserve, or the Lagoon Greenway. These peaceful paths are alive with activity—look closely and you might spot baby raccoons, white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, or nesting birds. Just remember to observe from a distance and avoid getting too close.
With baby season in full swing, it’s especially important to give wildlife plenty of space. Feeding or touching young animals can cause stress, interfere with their natural development, and even put them at risk. The best way to appreciate these special encounters is quietly and respectfully, allowing nature to unfold on its own terms.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
While you’re out exploring, do your part to keep these places beautiful. Instead of the usual “leave no trace,” aim to leave it better than you found it. That means packing out all your trash, avoiding single-use plastics, and using reusable water bottles and tote bags. You can also grab a Beach Basket at many local beach access points to help collect any litter you come across during your visit. You can also Consider volunteering with local conservation groups. From participating in a cleanup at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge to supporting sea turtle conservation efforts with Coastal Connections, or supporting the vital work being done at the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in the world. Your efforts help preserve these incredible ecosystems for generations to come.
Indian River County’s wild spaces, waterways, and wildlife are what make it such a special place to live and visit. By taking small steps to protect them, we ensure these natural wonders remain vibrant for future generations. So whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifetime, treat every outdoor adventure as an opportunity to care for the place we all love, and leave it as beautiful as you found it.
