Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Naples

On the eastern edge of Collier County, skirting the fringes of the Everglades plain, lies the largest ancient cypress forest in existence — the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Spanning 13,000 acres, it is part of the larger Corkscrew Watershed in Southwest Florida. This sanctuary represents a piece of old Florida like no other place on Earth.

The History of Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

By the late 19th century, fashion was a fickle mistress. Women adorned themselves with feathered hats, vying for the most extravagant displays. To meet this insatiable demand, hunters ventured deep into the Florida frontier. They stumbled upon a vast cypress swamp, slaughtering thousands of valuable birds and decimating massive nesting colonies. Initially targeting the fauna, they soon turned their destruction towards the flora. Lumberjacks systematically felled cypress trees across South Florida, putting the very existence of this magnificent site in jeopardy.

In 2014, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary celebrated its 60th anniversary. A visit to the sanctuary offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about the natural history of the region, gain a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem, and appreciate the significance of the watershed.

What is interesting reserve

Exploring Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary presents a journey like no other, across a 2.5-mile boardwalk meandering above the marshland. Along the way, informational signs and placards offer insights into the natural splendors of this locale. Additionally, volunteers roam the path, eager to point out the diverse species of wild flora.

The boardwalk guides visitors through four distinct habitats:

• Pine flatwoods;
• Wet prairies;
• Marshes;
• Ancient bald cypress forests.

With a keen eye, one may spot raccoons, otters, alligators, and a plethora of birds. Snowy, tricolored, and great blue herons, roseate spoonbills, anhingas, owls, and many more flock to this slice of paradise, making it a must-visit for any birdwatcher. The area is also home to an abundance of local plants and trees: orchids, pines, palms, and the sabal palmetto. Floating water lettuce provides cover for fish, turtles, and alligators, creating a thriving ecosystem within this unique sanctuary.

Visiting the Sanctuary

Things to do in Corkscrew Swamp

Exploring Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers an array of activities to immerse oneself in the natural and historical essence of this ancient land. Here are the highlights for visitors:

• Blair Audubon Center
  A must-visit starting point for newcomers, this center brims with educational exhibits and displays. It provides an insightful introduction to the sanctuary's history and the critical ecosystem it protects. Visitors can watch a short film for a virtual tour of the area. The center's lobby also serves as an art gallery showcasing local artists, with new exhibitions every two months.
• Early Bird Walk
  From 8 AM to 11 AM, a naturalist leads an exploration into the avian world of Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, home to over 200 bird species. This walk offers a unique opportunity to observe the diverse birdlife up close.
• Walking with Giants
  For those interested in delving deeper into the history and ecology of the ancient forest, this guided tour is perfect. With the purchase of an admission ticket, guests can join a naturalist for a three-hour trek, highlighting significant sites and sharing their stories.
• After Hours
  The Ghost Orchid serves as a prime example of an extremely rare plant that blooms over a dozen times a year. Typically hard to spot because it grows on tree trunks without leaves and its flowers blend with the bark, visitors have a special chance to view this elusive orchid from the boardwalk, albeit with binoculars.

These activities provide a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors, allowing them to connect with the sanctuary's rich biodiversity and historical significance.