Wednesday, November 26, 2008 - Primitive Camping Now Available At Bluefield Ranch

For those looking to escape to nature and enjoy an evening of solitude, primitive camping is now available at Bluefield Ranch: A former cattle ranch that was purchased by the St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners in 1998 to preserve the largest stand of scrub in the county.

A four-and-half-mile trail leads hikers to five secluded campsites each containing a picnic table and fire pit within Bluefield Ranch, which is located in western St. Lucie County. The preserve also contains a primitive horse camp area, approximately four miles from the parking lot. There is no potable water on the site, and all water must be carried in. Compost toilets and firewood are provided at each of the camp areas.  No camping is allowed in the parking lots. 

''These environmental resources and recreational amenities enhance the quality of life in our community and help promote much-needed eco-tourism opportunities,'' said Commissioner Doug Coward, chairman of the county's Tourist Development Council and one of the key players in creating the county's environmental lands program.

Managed by St. Lucie County's Environmental Resources Department (ERD), Bluefield Ranch encompasses more than 3,200 acres and features more than 20 miles of hiking, biking and horse trails, along with wildlife blinds and observation decks.

The cost for primitive camping is $5 per night.  The campsites were constructed through an Eagle Scout Project with the fire rings being donated by St. Lucie Battery and Tire.   

Bluefield Ranch is located at 13501 Bluefield Road, Fort Pierce, approximately 20 miles west of Fort Pierce, roughly four miles south of Okeechobee Road (SR 70) on Bluefield Road.

For more information call the ERD staff at (772) 462-2525 or visit www.stlucieco.gov/erd.