Last updated: October 10, 2024
Place
Turtle Mound
NPS/Photo
Quick Facts
Significance:
National Historic Site
Amenities
5 listed
Benches/Seating, Parking - Auto, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Wheelchair Accessible
Walk to the top of Turtle Mound and experience breathtaking views of the ocean and the lagoon from multiple over looks. A 35-foot-high pathway to the top, it is the tallest shell mound on the east coast of Florida. The primarily oyster shell mound historically reached 70 feet high. Early explorers once thought it looked like a turtle shell from the ocean which is it's name sake. Currently it faces constant erosion from sea level rise and annual storm surge. Learn about shoreline stabilization efforts underway by volunteers from the University of Central Florida.
Plant life on the mound represents the cross section of both the temperate and the subtropical. While making your way to the top observe the various plants present. Look for the oyster shells peeking out on the surface of the forest floor. Also explore the small fisherman’s path around the side of the mound which gives a view of the transect layers of the mound. Enjoy salt water fishing along the shore of Mosquito Lagoon. Salt water fishing permits acquired through Florida Fish and Wildlife.
Plant life on the mound represents the cross section of both the temperate and the subtropical. While making your way to the top observe the various plants present. Look for the oyster shells peeking out on the surface of the forest floor. Also explore the small fisherman’s path around the side of the mound which gives a view of the transect layers of the mound. Enjoy salt water fishing along the shore of Mosquito Lagoon. Salt water fishing permits acquired through Florida Fish and Wildlife.