Discover

Parks

Parks, preserves, trails and outdoor spaces.

Know before you go

· Every freshwater pond can have an alligator. Keep kids and dogs away from the edge.
· Go to remote preserves in daylight and with someone.
· Carry water; shade is limited at most preserves.

Rotary Park

~20 min

Easy WalksCape Coral

Why go · Best all-around Cape park; trails, butterfly house, environmental center, dog park, playground.

Hours: Environmental center Mon–Fri 8–4 (city website); check before you go

Last checked Sep 26Verify before going

Map

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve

~35 min

Easy WalksFort MyersTop pick

Why go · Shaded boardwalk, gators, wading birds, turtles.

Hours: Daylight hours; free entry, small parking fee

Last checked Sep 26Verify before going

Map

Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve (East)

~25 min

Dog-FriendlyNorth Fort Myers

Why go · Dog-friendly trails and boardwalk, fern-lined paths.

Heads up · Bring bug spray; can be wet after rain.

Hours: Daylight hours

Last checked Sep 26Verify before going

Map

Prairie Pines Preserve

~30 min

Remote/HikingNorth Fort Myers

Why go · Large trail network (short loops up to ~15 mi), restrooms, water fountains, dogs and horses allowed.

Hours: Daylight hours

Last checked Sep 26Verify before going

Map

Galt Preserve

~35 min

WildlifeSt. James City (Pine Island)

Why go · Quiet trails and boardwalk, eagles. Pair with lunch at Tarpon Lodge.

Hours: Daylight hours

Last checked Sep 26Verify before going

Map

Yellow Fever Creek Preserve

~15 min

Remote/HikingCape Coral

Why go · Truly natural scrub trails.

Heads up · No restrooms, very limited parking, unmarked trails, rattlesnakes reported, can feel isolated. Go with someone, in daylight. Floods in rainy season.

Hours: Dawn to dusk (Lee County) — go with someone

Last checked Sep 26Verify before going

Map

Wildlife, water and weather hazards → Danger Zone

Places change — verify hours before you go. In an emergency, call 911.