Visitor Use

Leave No Trace - Guidelines to Protect Wilderness and Wildlife
The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve encourages visitors to utilize Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines. These guidelines provide a set of “outdoor good manners” to protect wildlands from unintended abuse by outdoor enthusiasts.

Originally established by the National Outdoor Leadership School, the first guidelines were intended for backpackers and mountain campers. Due to rapid population growth in southwest Florida, the need for an outdoor etiquette for boaters, birders, beach enthusiasts and recreational fishermen has increased.

The Reserve recommends the following guidelines to ensure your visit to this pristine estuary will... leave no trace.
 
Responsible Boating
Operate boats safely and courteously.

Manatee Zone Observe manatee slow zones

Manatees are hard to spot. The greatest mortality among these endangered mammals is due to boat impacts.

Avoid prop dredging

Many of the inshore waters in Collier County have average depths less than three feet. Scars which result from boat props cutting through the bottom in shallow water is detrimental to the dwindling seagrass habitat throughout the Reserve.

Watch your wake

Small boats or canoes may be easily over turned by the wake of large speeding vessels.
 
Rediscover Florida
Rediscover Florida

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection launched Rediscover Florida - 100 ways in 100 days, to encourage all Floridians to explore the natural, cultural and historic treasures that exist throughout the state.
 
Sustainable Fishing Practices
Sport fishing is a popular pastime within the boundaries of Rookery Bay. Proper fish handling and compliance with state and federal regulations helps ensure Florida's fisheries remain healthy and productive. Find the most up to date information on research-based catch and release practices from Florida Sea Grant to help protect and conserve our marine fisheries.
 
Kayaking at Rookery Bay
Kayaking at Rookery Bay

Join a Rookery Bay naturalist for a guided exploration of the bays and mangrove forests of Rookery Bay. Discover the unique plants and animals that make this coastal ecosystem so valuable. Tours are offered Wednesdays and Fridays. Tour times, distances, and skill level vary. Check calendar for details. Trip limited to 10 participants age 12+. Cost $35.00/2 hour trip, $45/3 hour trip ($5 discount FORB Members) Pre-registration required: register here or call 239-417-6310, ext 401..
 
Protect Wilderness
Avoid building campfires.
Aside from the obvious wildfire threat, campfire scars are very unsightly and long lasting. Carefully use cookstoves and lanterns instead.

Use designated trails.
Off-trail excursions destroy native vegetation and cause dune erosion.

Take your trash with you.
  • Garbage of any sort is unsightly and ruins the aesthetic experience of enjoying the wilderness of the Rookery Bay Reserve.
  • Glass bottles are a safety hazard to visitors and wildlife.
  • Plastic wraps and bags pose serious threats to wildlife.
  • Monofilament fishing line is deadly to birds and many other forms of wildlife.
 
Protect Wildlife


All plants and animals are protected.

Take no live shells.

Respect areas closed for nesting birds.
Shorebirds typically nest on beaches from April to August. Some wading birds use mangrove rookeries all year round.

Stay far enough away from resting birds so they do not flush.
Coastal development has resulted in the loss of habitat needed by shorebirds for foraging and resting. Flushed birds expend valuable energy needed for survival.
 


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Beach Conditions

Giant Hermit Crab

Southwest Florida Beach Conditions:

For the latest beach conditions in Southwest Florida and Collier County, check out the new beach reporting system. Updates include wind direction, surf conditions, the presence of Red Tide and more.
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Visitor Use



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Recommended Activities:
Sunbathing
Wildlife viewing
Nature photography
Camping (in designated areas)
Fishing

Fishing Licenses

Do you need a Saltwater Fishing License?
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Prohibited Activities
As part of the Wilderness Area Practice “Leave No Trace” guidelines, the following activities are prohibited.
  • Unleashed pets
  • Unattended fires
  • Hunting, harassing or possessing wildlife
  • Use of firearms or weapons
  • Removal or disturbance of natural or cultural resources
  • Pollution or destruction of property
  • Live shelling is prohibited throughout Collier County
Rule 18-23.007
Florida Administrative Code Chapter 253 Florida Statutes

To Report Violations
Call 1-888-404-FWCC
or (239) 938-1800 for DEP Park Patrol