As part of the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) program and the East Florida section of the Great Florida Birding Trail, Turkey Creek Sanctuary is 130 acres of wonder, biodiversity and natural resources.

Established in 1981, the Sanctuary offers a 1.85 mile boardwalk passing through hydric (wet) hammock, mesic (moist) hammock, and sand pine scrub communities, and 1.5 miles of jogging trails through native forest, both excellent for viewing a multitude of wild life. Within the Sanctuary, there is also a 1 mile mountain bike trail with a direct connection to an additional 8 miles. As well as walking, jogging and biking, the Sanctuary can also be accessed by canoe or kayak.

The on-site Margaret Hames Nature Center, opened in 1992, offers interpretive exhibits, and environmental education programs, including nature day camps, tours, nature library and gift store.

You'll enjoy seeing manatees, alligators and Florida cooters (turtles) in the creek, and you might see an otter or a gar fish. Birds abound in the pine canopy, including ospreys and owls.

• Creek with Canoe/ Kayak access
• Jogging & Exercise Trails
• Nature Center with Exhibits
• Pavilion 
• Picnic Tables
• New Restroom Facilities
• New Drinking Fountain with Bottle Filler

Enjoy a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Turkey Creek Sanctuary with kayak tours and rentals offered by Melbourne Kayak Rentals. Located at the Turkey Creek Kayak Launch (815 Briar Creek Blvd, Palm Bay), this opportunity allows visitors to explore scenic waterways, observe local wildlife, and immerse themselves in one of Palm Bay’s most treasured natural environments.

Guided kayak tours are available by advance reservation on Saturdays and Sundays. Tours are offered at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., last approximately 90 minutes, and are designed for all skill levels. Each tour includes a kayak, paddle, and life jacket. The cost is $60 per person, and $5 from every booking is donated back to support Turkey Creek Sanctuary. Discounts are available for veterans, law enforcement, teachers, and local residents.

Kayak rentals are also available by reservation on Saturdays and Sundays, with start times between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. (3:00 p.m. is the latest launch time). All rentals must be returned by 5:30 p.m.

Please note that on-site staff are only available when there is a scheduled booking, and walk-up rentals are not offered. All tours and rentals must be reserved in advance through Melbourne Kayak Rentals’ online booking system (coming soon) or by contacting them directly.

To book your tour or rental or for more information, visit melbournekayakrentals.com, call or text (321) 493-0674, or email info@melbournekayakrentals.com.

1st and 3rd Sunday of each month from 10 AM - 11 AM

All Participants should meet at the sanctuary Nature Center no later than 10:00 am. Tours will take place on the boardwalk and various trails located throughout the sanctuary. Each tour will be led by the Park Ranger and will focus on common plants and animals found in the sanctuary.

Total distance for tours is approximately 1 to 1.5 miles and should take about 1 hour to 1 1/4 hours to complete. The terrain is mostly sandy on primitive trails with a few wet spots, so participants are asked to dress accordingly and be prepared for a hike of light to moderate intensity. Sturdy tennis shoes or boots are recommended. Items to bring include Sunscreen, insect repellent, plenty of water, snacks, binoculars, and a hat. Field guides of Florida plants and animals are encouraged.

This event is free for all ages. To sign up, call the Nature Center at (321) 676-6690. 

Ranger Tracey Wright Leads the Ranger-Led Tour Through Turkey Creek Sanctuary

"The mission of the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is to promote awareness, understanding, and respect of Florida's natural world among Florida's citizens and visitors.

The Florida Master Naturalist Program is an adult education UF/IFAS Extension program developed by the University of Florida and provided by many Extension offices and participating organizations throughout the state of Florida. FMNP training will benefit persons interested in learning more about Florida’s environment or wishing to increase their knowledge for use in education programs as volunteers, employees, ecotourism guides, and others."

The Brevard County team that teaches FMNP offers 4 to 5 classes per year. For more information, please contact the Nature Center at (321) 676-6690. 

Need a place to walk your pup? AIS Trail Park is Pet-Friendly! 

Since Turkey Creek Sanctuary only allows service animals, AIS Trail Park is a pet-friendly alternative. AIS Trail Park is located at 2800 Hickory Ave. NE, Palm Bay, FL 32905. The park has access to AIS Trail, hiking/jogging trails, nature trails, a fishing pier, kayak/canoe launch, a pavilion, picnic tables, restrooms, and boardwalks. This park is located on Turkey Creek and is pet-friendly. All pets MUST be on a leash and humans MUST pick up after themselves and their animal friends. 

Check out our video tour of Ais Trail Park

Click here for more information on AIS Trail Park.