Welcome to Bluefield Preserve
I have placed a series of three geocaches that will require significant bushwhacking. There are no trails to these three caches other than a few game trails. You will most definitely get your feet wet as well. This will be a slow hike with lots of ducking and zigzagging. You will be generally following the course of a small stream. It is quite beautiful back in here. There are lots of ferns, mossy oaks, and a few orchids.
Start your journey just to the East of the water crossing's dilapidated bridge (Called the "Hikers Water Crossing Bridge" on Bluefields brochure). The GPS coordinates where I went IN are here: N27 13.600 W80 36.562. This point is 2.7 miles from parking. Also if you try to go IN from any other point you may find yourself in a real predicament.
I would strongly recommend doing the three caches in order: 1,2,3 and then retrace your steps back to the starting point. Make sure you have a spare set of batteries for your GPS and let someone know where you are going. Don't get lost! Take it easy, take your time, and pay attention to your surroundings!
Take lots of pictures!
All three geocaches are small camoed bison's and are hanging. They should not be too dificult to find. (Look at the hints).
Study the trail guides here: Bluefield Brochure
Bring lots of water, a major portion of the journey is not shaded. there is a lot of beauty and history throughout the preserve. Take the time to study the brochure and you can pick up a hard copy at the parking area Kiosk. The trail map will be very valuable while on the trails.
Bluefield Natural Area is a 3,285 acre site
located on the eastern slope of the Orlando Ridge, a relic sand ridge originating near Orlando and ending in Martin County.
This area contains a mosaic of natural habitats including: scrub (507 acres), scrubby flatwoods (279 acres), baygall and prairie hammock (525 acres), mesic and wet flatwoods (328 acres), wet prairie (594 acres), dry prairie (265 acres) and depression marsh (129 acres). This
variety of natural habitats supports a diverse population of wildlife and plant species, including 13 animals and 5 plants on the threatened and endangered species lists.
Recreation opportunities include a wildlife blind, observation tower, primitive camping and 20 miles of hiking and horse trails. Bluefield is located at the southern end of Bluefield Rd., 18 miles west of Ft Pierce off of SR70.