Nestled forty-six miles east of Panama City between Saint Joseph Bay and Saint Vincent Sound is a narrow peninsula of land separating the two bays. At Indian Pass, the most southern point on County Road 30-B, lying an enticing quarter-mile off shore is St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, a 12,300 acre island teeming with native and exotic wildlife.
A View of St. Vincent Island From Indian Pass Campground
Visitors are welcome to explore the island by day and can access it by shuttle boat or personal watercraft. If attempting the crossing on your own be sure to check local tides, currents and weather conditions before setting out.
A network of gravel roads run the length of the nine mile long island allowing visitors better access to the interior. Foot and bicycle travel are the only allowed modes of transportation permitted. For an additional fee the shuttle boat servicing the island will transport bicycles.
Sambar Deer at St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge
While on the island visitors have the chance to observe a wide variety of wildlife such as the exotic Sambar deer, and endangered Red Wolf. Other animals include the Nine-banded Armadillo, Bald Eagle. American Alligator, Wood Stork, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Atlantic Bottle-nosed and Rough-toothed Dolphin, River Otter and Feral Hog. The island is home to over 25 species of mammal, 51 species of reptile and amphibian, 39 species of fish and an extensive assortment of birds.
The best time to visit St. Vincent Island is during the early morning hours before the Florida heat and humidity set in. Animals are also more active during this time. Be sure to bring along plenty of water and rest frequently to prevent overheating. Bug spray and sunscreen are also important items to keep on hand.
For more information visit the St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge website or read my personal St. Vincent Island trip report.
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