Outdoor Experiences
Nature Trails

Trailheads MapIn addition to the Snail Trail, Catbird Loop and Slash Pine Loop at the Environmental Learning Center, some other short nature trails can be accessed a few miles away, off Shell Island Road.  Number 1 is the former site of the Briggs Nature Center which is now the FWC field office, but a portolet is available for visitor access.  The boardwalk behind the building which belongs to the Conservancy provides views of beautiful scrub habitat and a freshwater pond overlook.  Look for towhees, woodpeckers, armadillo, otters and wading birds.

Trail Through TimeAt the end of the road are a few other short trails, with number 8 bringing you to the monument on Henderson Creek (see Trail through time attachment).  Neither of these trails is very long or strenuous but there is beauty around if you take the time to see it.  Here you might see tortoise, osprey and wading birds.  Please remember to Leave No Trace.
 
Outdoor experiences to enjoy in the Reserve include:

Walking Trails Walking Trails:

The Trails Through Time on Shell Island Road include three trails approximately ¼ mile long each. Botanical signage has been installed along the trails to assist visitors in identifying various native trees.
Canoeing / Kayaking Canoeing/Kayaking:

The Shell Point Canoe Trail was designed to provide quiet enjoyment of up-close wildlife observation opportunities. Markers guide canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts through a watery maze of mangrove tunnels, mud flats, oyster beds and rookery islands. A canoe trail map and guide is available at headquarters.
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Birdwatching Birdwatching:

Taking a leisurely drive down Shell Island Road usually provides viewing of a variety of wildlife, especially birds. On the Briggs’ boardwalk you can enjoy a half-mile loop through rare coastal scrub, pine flatwoods and marsh habitat, where you might see eagles, hawks, warblers and more. Over 150 species of birds can be found throughout the Reserve.
Fishing Fishing:

The quiet backwaters of the Reserve provide recreational anglers an excellent opportunity to catch snook, redfish, mangrove, snapper and tarpon. Anglers must comply with local, state and federal laws.
Boat Ramp Boat Ramp:

A primitive boat ramp is located at the end of Shell Island Road (use at own risk). Other boating access points near the reserve include Bayview Park and the 951 boat ramp, located just north of the Jolley Bridge.

Camping Camping

Primitive camping is permitted in designated areas of the Reserve. Campers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace guidelines.
 


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Prohibited Activities

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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
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

Visitor Use

Giant Hermit Crab

Public Access:

Guidelines, information and maps to assist you in your visit to Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
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Beach Conditions

Southwest Florida Beach Conditions

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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