Blue Cypress Lake
Florida, USA
Blue Cypress Lake—located in Florida’s Indian River County, which is part of the region known as the Treasure Coast—offers stunning natural beauty with cypress trees that rise up from the water. The lake attracts visitors interested in fishing, kayaking, bird-watching, and wildlife photography. It's particularly famous for its large osprey population, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
The basics
People come to Blue Cypress Lake for a range of outdoor activities. Fishing is a major draw, with anglers targeting largemouth bass and other species, while kayaking and canoeing provide a peaceful way to explore the lake’s calm waters, which are surrounded by cypress trees. Bird-watching, particularly for ospreys, is popular, along with scenic boat tours. Meanwhile, photographers enjoy capturing the serene landscapes and wildlife, including alligators and the lake’s various bird species.
Things to know before you go
- You’ll find restrooms and showers on the west side of the lake.
- You can take a pontoon boat tour to get up close to birds and alligators or an airboat tour for a fast, thrilling ride.
- If you encounter an osprey and they become agitated, it’s best to leave the area so that they don’t abandon their nests and their young.
- Swimming in the lake is discouraged.
How to get there
Since Blue Cypress Lake is remote, driving is the most convenient option. From Vero Beach, head west on State Road 60; it’s about a 40-minute drive. And it’s about 2.5 hours from Tampa and 1.5 hours from Orlando. There is a boat ramp and access points for fishing, kayaking, and tours. Most guided tours provide round-trip transportation.
When to get there
The best time to visit the lake is during the cooler months, from November to April, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. It’s also a good time for spotting ospreys and other wildlife. Early mornings offer the calmest waters and beautiful sunrise views, making it perfect for photographers. Keep in mind that it gets very humid in Southern Florida during the summer months.
Fishing at Blue Cypress Lake
Blue Cypress Lake is known as an angler’s paradise. Home to bluegill, catfish, chain pickerel, crappie, largemouth bass, and shellcrackers, the water is great for fishing year round. You can launch from Middleton’s Fish Camp on the western shore of the lake. You’ll also find primitive camping for tents and RVs there.
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