Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

This boat ramp provides access to Mosquito Lagoon, a dynamic brackish estuary within Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in central Florida. The refuge, established to protect lands adjacent to the Space Program, offers diverse paddling opportunities through productive saltmarsh habitat home to manatees, wading birds, and other wildlife. Multiple launch points are available throughout the refuge, including Beacon 42 Boat Ramp on the east side, which features dedicated kayak launching facilities.

**Access & Fees:** A Refuge Daily Pass is required to launch at most sites and can be purchased on an honor system (cash or check only) at the Visitor Center or at individual boat ramps. Beacon 42 charges a $10 parking fee. An entrance fee to Canaveral National Seashore may also apply depending on your specific launch location and activities. Additional passes and camping options are available through Recreation.gov, and the America the Beautiful annual pass is accepted.

**Conditions & Tips:** Mosquito Lagoon features tidal waters with easy to moderate paddling difficulty. The area is best visited November through April to avoid summer heat and insects. Check current manatee protection zones before paddling, and be aware of fishing and limited hunting seasons. The refuge includes access to Playalinda Beach and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities—bring binoculars and a camera for bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, and alligators.

Overview
Canaveral National Seashore is located midway along Florida's east coast where warm waters and a temperate climate meet to host species as diverse as bald eagles and alligators or bromeliads and mangroves. The national seashore was designated in 1975 to preserve and protect this special area. Visitors to the seashore will discover its rich and diverse history, from its fertile estuaries...

Overview
Canaveral National Seashore is located midway along Florida's east coast where warm waters and a temperate climate meet to host species as diverse as bald eagles and alligators or bromeliads and mangroves. The national seashore was designated in 1975 to preserve and protect this special area. Visitors to the seashore will discover its rich and diverse history, from its fertile estuaries once supporting Timucuan Indian populations to the area's first orange groves in the 1830s. Today, Canaveral National Seashore offers an inviting place to relax along the shores of the Atlantic, fish in an open lagoon, enjoy a self-guided hike, watch for wildlife like the West Indian manatee or even participate in a guided sea turtle tour.
Backcountry Camping on the Islands For visitors wishing to backcountry camp in the seashore, primitive camping is available on designated islands throughout the Intracoastal Waterway and Mosquito Lagoon. These campsites are available by reservation only and require a permit. You may reserve campsites for $25 per night and up to six months in advance. RV or vehicle camping is not permitted within the seashore.   
Fourteen island campsites are available for reservation and include both natural island and spoil island campsites. All fourteen island campsites are accessible by campers with their own watercraft, such as a motor boat, kayak, or canoe. Canoe rentals are available (weather permitting) for campsites #1 - #5 only. Canoe rentals are $25 per night for individuals 18 years and older. Canoe capacity is two adults per canoe, plus gear. For canoe rentals, please inquire at the Apollo Beach Visitor Center or call (386) 428-3384, ext. 0 for more information.
Campsites - Group Size (# of People):
Orange Island - 6, 
Homestead - 8,
Shipyard - 10, 
Headwinds - 10, 
Government Cut - 20, 
Jones Canal - 20, 
Brickhouse Cove - 60, 
Bissette Bay - 15, 
Middle Dredge - 25, 
South Middle Dredge - 25, 
Scout Island - 20, 
South Dredge - 40, 
East Winds - 20, and 
County Line - 20. 
Reservations. Begin booking on-line by selecting 'Build Itinerary' at the top right. 
Charges & Cancellations
Backcountry Overnight Primtive Island Camping Fees: $25 per nightIsland Capacities vary from 6-60 people.
Refund and Cancellation PolicyReservations cancelled prior to 12:00 am ET the day before the reservation start date will be refunded all fees paid minus a $10 cancellation fee. Reservations cancelled after 12:00 am ET the day before the reservation start date will forfeit the first night's fees plus a $10 cancellation fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation).
Full refunds will only be given in the event of park closure due to inclement weather or administrative purposes.  
Reservation Changes:Once your permit is printed no changes are allowed. Changes in the number of people with the same dates and campsites are allowed when available and completed prior to printing your permit. Changing the date of entry requires a new reservation. Cancel your current permit and reserve a new permit.No-Shows:No refunds will be given in the event of a no-show.

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