Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve features one of the last undisturbed mangrove estuaries on the continent of North America and can be found on the gulf coast of Florida. Rookery Bay Reserve started in 1964 when a group of concerned citizens blocked the road to nowhere and formed the Collier County Conservancy.

  • What is the history of Rookery Bay?
    • The group began raising funds and purchasing the Rookery Bay properties in 1965, partnering with the National Audubon Society with community support. Over half a million dollars was raised to purchase 3,000 acres that became the Rookery Bay Sanctuary.
    • By 1971, another $800,000 was raised for additional land purchases, including Shell Point. In 1977, Rookery Bay was designated as a National Estuarine Research Reserve, and in 1988, Cannon Island was acquired through conservation efforts.
    • Today, Rookery Bay spans 110,000 acres, consisting of 70,000 acres of open waters and 40,000 acres of mangroves, marshes, and upland habitats.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Rookery Bay?
    • Rookery Bay offers a variety of outdoor recreation, including kayaking, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
    • Educational opportunities include guided nature tours through the mangroves, interactive exhibits at the Environmental Learning Center, and special programs for students and researchers.
  • What is the Environmental Learning Center?
    • The Environmental Learning Center features 4 research labs, classrooms, an auditorium, an interactive exhibit hall, a 2,300-gallon aquarium, a nature store, an art gallery, and a picnic area.
    • The center offers daily themed programs led by naturalists, guided tours for groups, and event hosting for conferences, weddings, and meetings.
  • What are the rules for visiting Rookery Bay?
    • Visitors must leave no trace and respect the protected environment.
    • All pets must be leashed.
    • Fires must not be left unattended.
    • Hunting and harassing wildlife are strictly prohibited.
    • Firearms and weapons are not allowed.
    • Removing, polluting, or disturbing the natural surroundings is prohibited.
  • What educational opportunities are available?
    • Amazing Adventures: A winter lecture series with narrated presentations on travel, natural history, and destination ideas.
    • Lunch and Learn: Monthly lunch sessions featuring environmental research discussions (registration required).
    • Student Programs: Educational workshops, hands-on investigations, and structured learning experiences for 4th grade through college students, as well as homeschool groups.
  • What is Isles of Capri Paddlecraft Park?
    • This park provides access to a shallow mangrove bay for paddleboats and canoes. The park features a launch ramp, picnic areas, and restrooms.

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 300 Tower Road Naples, Florida 34113, Phone: 239-530-5940

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