Most of Florida's spoil islands were created over a 10-year period, from 1951 to 1961, when the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway was being dredged. The dredging resulted in mounds forming in the water. Some are small, and only a couple acres in size, but others are up to 7.5 acres, and home to wildlife and camping activities.
Spoil islands are scattered throughout Pinellas County, and they range in size from 0.25 to 5 acres. The islands are notable for camping, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. They are frequented by locals and local wildlife, especially birds, who nest in the remote trees growing there. However, county officials worry about pollution, because many guests leave trash that could harm the birds and aquatic life in the bay. Visitors are urged to bring a trash bag and collect all their trash before they leave the spoil islands.
Indian River Lagoon and Sebastian Inlet's spoil islands were formed when the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway was dredged. Spoil islands dot the lagoon and are frequent destinations among Floridians who want to view local wildlife in a natural setting. Larger islands in the area have nature trails that guests can use for hiking.
The state of Florida maintains the majority of the spoil islands, and primitive camping is allowed, except on islands where it would disturb wildlife. The Indian River Lagoon islands, in particular, have many rookeries that would be harmed by human activity; the area is known for some of Florida's best birding. The islands that allow camping have fire circles and picnic tables, and guests are encouraged to bring their own portable toileting devices, because they are all primitive campsites. The islands are only accessible by water, and they are first come, first served; during peak visitation, guests should come early if they want a good site. Geocaching is allowed on the spoil islands, provided that it does not interfere with local flora or fauna. If you are unsure whether it is allowed on a particular island, you should ask the coordinator first.
