McCarty Ranch Preserve
A natural escape with a scenic lake, petting zoo, camping, and trails. Enjoy wildlife and outdoor activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
McCarty Ranch Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural escape with a scenic lake, petting zoo, camping, and trails. Enjoy wildlife and outdoor activities.
"Paradise lost... the area is breathtaking... beautiful lake with gators... Extremely clean place."
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking costs $5. Consider carpooling if possible.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
Distances can be significant; wear comfortable shoes. Medical golf carts are available if needed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petting Zoo Encounters
Near the main entrance
Get up close with friendly farm animals. A definite highlight for families and animal lovers!
Scenic Lake Views
Along the RV campsites and trails
Enjoy picturesque lake vistas, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection. Watch for alligators!
Bonfire Gatherings
Designated bonfire areas
Gather around a warm bonfire for a classic outdoor experience. Great for evening relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to McCarty Ranch Preserve
Camping and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Nice campgrounds / county parks
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking costs $5. Consider carpooling if possible.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
Distances can be significant; wear comfortable shoes. Medical golf carts are available if needed.
🐊 Alligator Awareness
The lake is home to alligators; observe from a safe distance.
📅 Check Event Status
Events can be cancelled; confirm before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking costs $5. Consider carpooling if possible.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
Distances can be significant; wear comfortable shoes. Medical golf carts are available if needed.
🐊 Alligator Awareness
The lake is home to alligators; observe from a safe distance.
📅 Check Event Status
Events can be cancelled; confirm before you go.
🏕️ Campsite Availability
RV spots are limited (6), book in advance, especially during peak season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McCarty Ranch Preserve is praised for its beautiful lake, clean facilities, and enjoyable petting zoo, making it a pleasant natural escape. However, visitors should be prepared for walking distances and the lack of RV hookups. Some events have been subject to cancellation, so confirming schedules is advised.
"Parking was $5. Be prepared to walk a distance, though. Thankfully, the medical golf cart saved my husband's back pain because he would have never made it. The hayride trucks should give the option to drop people off. That would be great 👍. Other than that, the petting zoo was amazing and worth it all! Loved the bonfire."
Heather Seropian
"Paradise lost….. the area is breathtaking… beautiful lake with gators…. Extremely clean place.. well done to SFWM and st. Lucie Parks and Recreation…"
Martin Zidtowecki
"Went for a Halloween/pumpkin event with our 5 year old granddaughter, but when we arrived and couldn't find anyone anywhere, I found a phone number online. They told me the event was cancelled, and we were disappointed. But we got to see a bit of what PSL used to look like, it was mainly tree farms and ranches. By the time we visit again, I'm sure it will be more condos, strip malls and Starbucks."
Christine Fey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McCarty Ranch Preserve is located in Port Saint Lucie. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to access the preserve. Parking is available on-site for a fee of $5.
Public transportation options to McCarty Ranch Preserve are not widely available. Visitors typically rely on personal vehicles.
You can find McCarty Ranch Preserve by navigating to its address in Port Saint Lucie. It's recommended to use a GPS or mapping app for the most accurate directions.
While McCarty Ranch Preserve is a county park, there isn't specific mention of BLM land in the immediate vicinity. It offers its own natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Parking is available at McCarty Ranch Preserve and costs $5. Be prepared for a walk from the parking area to some attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a parking fee of $5 to enter McCarty Ranch Preserve.
Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website or contact them directly for the most current information, especially if planning to attend specific events.
For general park access, advance booking is usually not required. However, for specific events or camping, it's advisable to check their booking policies.
McCarty Ranch Preserve sometimes hosts events, such as Halloween or pumpkin-themed gatherings. It's crucial to confirm event schedules as they can be subject to cancellation.
Information regarding pet policies is not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews. It's recommended to contact the preserve directly to inquire about bringing pets.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy a petting zoo, hiking trails, a short bicycle trail, disc golf, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Bonfires are also a popular activity.
Yes, McCarty Ranch Preserve features an amazing petting zoo that is a highlight for many visitors, especially families.
Yes, there is a short hiking trail and a trail around the lake, offering opportunities for nature walks and enjoying the scenery.
Absolutely! Canoeing and kayaking are available on the lake, providing a great way to explore the preserve from the water.
The preserve is known for its lake, which is home to alligators. Visitors are advised to be aware of the wildlife and observe from a safe distance.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities
McCarty Ranch Preserve offers 13 tent campsites and 9 RV sites. The RV sites are located on the lake but do not have hookups.
No, the RV sites at McCarty Ranch Preserve do not have hookups. However, a tank dump and bathhouse are available for use.
The 13 tent campsites are described as being close together but offer privacy due to vegetation.
Campers have access to a bathhouse and a tank dump station.
Given the limited number of RV spots, it's highly recommended to reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit around any scheduled events, but be aware that these can sometimes be cancelled. The lake offers a chance to spot wildlife like alligators from a safe distance, which can be exciting for curious young minds. The availability of bonfires can also add a special touch to a family outing.
🏕️ Campers
Campsites are noted to be close but offer privacy due to vegetation. Due to the limited number of RV spots, booking in advance is highly recommended. The $5 parking fee applies to all visitors, including those camping. Enjoy the natural surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere.
Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The preserve is generally clean and well-maintained, making for a pleasant outdoor experience. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a longer exploration, the trails provide a good way to connect with the natural environment. The quiet mornings are particularly good for enjoying the tranquility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring McCarty Ranch Preserve's Natural Beauty
The preserve is well-maintained, with reviewers praising its cleanliness and the efforts of SFWM and St. Lucie Parks and Recreation. Beyond the lake, you'll find hiking trails and a short bicycle trail, perfect for a leisurely exploration of the grounds. The disc golf course is another popular amenity for active visitors. The natural vegetation plays a key role in providing privacy for the campsites, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.
For those interested in wildlife, the petting zoo is a significant draw, offering close encounters with farm animals. It's a particularly enjoyable feature for families with young children. The preserve also offers opportunities for bonfire gatherings, creating a cozy atmosphere for evenings spent under the stars.
Camping and Facilities at McCarty Ranch
The tent campsites are described as being relatively close together, but the surrounding vegetation helps to create a sense of privacy. This setup is ideal for those who enjoy a more communal camping atmosphere while still having their own space. The overall cleanliness of the preserve, including the camping areas and facilities, is frequently highlighted in reviews, indicating good management and upkeep.
Given the limited number of RV spots, it is strongly recommended to book campsites in advance, especially during popular seasons or weekends. This will help ensure you secure a spot and avoid disappointment. The $5 parking fee applies to all visitors, including campers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit