This 7,600-acre wildlife refuge is home to 51 types of reptiles and amphibians, 32 mammal species, more than 230 species of birds. Paddling, hiking/biking trails, observation towers and a four-mile scenic drive (drive closed Fri.) Indigo Trail opens daily leading to the Wildlife Education Boardwalk's scat and tracks replications. Free hands-on Visitor & Education Center open daily with free seasonal programs and tours. Year-round guided tram, boat and paddling tours (Tarpon Bay Explorers 239-472-8900). Bailey Tract offers more hiking, biking, and wildlife watching

Overview

General Information: Open Year-Round

Location: Island, Waterfront

Suitable for Ages: All Ages

Time To Experience Activity: 1 - 2 Hours, 2 - 3 Hours, Half Day

Hours: Wildlife Drive: hours vary, call for times; Visitor & Education Center daily 9-4

Dates Closed: Wildlife Drive is closed every Friday, Education Center times vary

Closest Airport: RSW

Driving Time to Nearby Lodging: 5 minutes

Disabled Traveler Information: ADA Compliant, Wheelchair-Friendly

Guest Information: Family Friendly

Pet Information: Pet Friendly

Pet Types Allowed: dogs on leashes

Activities: Back Bay Fishing, Bicycling, Birding, Boating, Children's Programs, Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Kayaking, Light Tackle Fishing, Natural Wildlife Viewing, Saltwater Fishing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Facility Amenities: Bus Parking, Canoe/Kayak Launch, Gift Shop, Instruction Available, Interpretive Displays, Marina, Parking, Recreational Area

Information/Services: Brochures, Maps

Rentals: Bicycle Rental, Boat Rental, Fishing Rental, Kayak Rental, Pontoon Rental, Watersport Rentals - Motorized, Watersport Rentals - Non-Motorized

Shopping Type: Books, Gifts, Jewelry, Specialty Shop

Category: Bicycle Trails, Boat Tours, Hiking/Nature Trails, Marine Attractions, Marker/Interpretive Station, Museum, Museum Science, National Park, Nature Interpretive Center, Nature Preserve, Protected Species Habitat, Scenic Highway/Byway, Scenic Waterway, Sightseeing Tours, Sunset Cruise, Water Recreation, Wildlife Management Area

Tour Information: Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours