Nature Parks and Preserves
Four Mile Cove Preserve
At 365 acres, Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is the second largest preserved green space in Cape Coral. Located just north of Veteran's Parkway, Four Mile Cove, “Eco Park” is a brackish water wetland area that features a walking trail, visitor center, and seasonal kayak rentals. Pristine canoe and kayak waterways through mangroves & marshes, picnic area, and possible wildlife sightings.
East end of Southeast 23rd Terrace, Cape Coral
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Journey into a 3,500-acre wetland ecosystem on a mile-long boardwalk trail. Enjoy overlooks, plants and a myriad of wildlife and free guided walks year-round. Group programs/tours by reservation only.
7791 Penzance Crossing, Fort Myers
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
This 7,600-acre wildlife refuge is home to 272 bird species, 60 types of reptiles, 35 mammal species, paddling, hiking/biking trails and a four-mile scenic drive
One Wildlife Drive, Sanibel Island
Lakes Regional Park
Visitors can relax, exercise and explore. The park boasts several miles of paved and unpaved trails and boardwalks. Water activities include canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Picnicking and bird watching are also popular activities.
The park features a freshwater lake, miniature train rides, playgrounds, water-feature playgrounds, food concession, bike/boat rentals and picnic pavilions.
7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
Visit this 105-acre natural oasis. Stroll on their boardwalks through pine flat woods and cypress wetlands. Visit the aviary, home to permanently injured hawks, owls and eagles. Have a close and personal encounter with rattlesnakes, non-venomous reptiles and live insect collection in the exciting museum. Calusa Nature Center Planetarium is the only planetarium in SWFL.
3450 Ortiz Avenue, Fort Myers
Manatee Park
Manatee Park is a non-captive warm water refuge for the Florida Manatee. Optimum viewing months are late December, January, and February when the gulf temperature is below 68F. Manatees are generally not present during the warm summer months. The park has an extensive butterfly garden, boardwalk, kayak rentals, hiking trails, and food concessions.
10901 State Road 80, Fort Myers