The Perfect Time of Year to Get Outside , Explore and Enjoy Nature at Rookery Bay Research Reserve

There is no better time of the year than February to experience all Rookery Bay Research Reserve has to offer! The weather is dry, the temperature is perfect and the activities at the Reserve are endless. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Naples, Rookery Bay Research Reserve encompasses 40% of Collier County’s most beautiful, naturally preserved coastline and includes 110,000 acres of land and water. Visitors can explore on foot, by boat and kayak or with a visit to the state-of-the-art Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, filled with interesting and interactive coastal and natural history exhibits.

At the Center, guests can learn about the waters, birds and animal life of the reserve as well as experience it hands-on with educators at the Estuary Encounter Touch Tank. Guests are encouraged to look, touch or hold a sea star, sea urchin, giant conch snail or pistol shrimp.

For hikers and explorers, a scenic overlook bridge is directly behind the Center and leads to three loops of nature trails. While crossing the bridge, visitors can often spot manatees, dolphins and
numerous types of bird life! A shaded picnic area and butterfly garden are also just out on the back patio and offer a beautiful space for quiet contemplation or lunch surrounded by the natural
beauty of the Reserve waters and sub-tropical foliage.

UPCOMING EVENTS
2022 Photography Reception
February 3, 2022
5:30 – 7 pm
FREE
Registration is required

Join exhibiting photographers and jurors for our Annual Photography Art Reception. Local photographers submitted works that reflect Florida’s flora and fauna. Three winners will be selected by and announced during the evening festivities. Rookery Bay Science Nites -Hurricanes in South Florida Mangroves February 24, 2022 5:30 – 7:30 pm $10 Registration is required

Why not shake up your after work or dinner routine and come on out to one of Rookery Bay’s Science Nites for a little science and interesting information while you socialize? At our 2022 series of Science Nites, well-known area experts will treat you to a presentation and fun facts about some of Southwest Florida’s most interesting habitats and wildlife.

SIMS – Spring Institute for Marine Science Day Camp March 15, 16 or 17 (Choose entire week or individual days) 9 am – 1 pm $75 per day Registration is required

A perfect half-day camp for 8th, 9th and 10th graders interested in marine sciences. Family Camp Out March 19-20, 2022 $35 per campsite Registration is required

Grab your friends and family and camp out under the stars with Rookery Bay educators. Enjoy nature activities, stargazing and beautiful lush green space. Access to indoor restrooms included.

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
300 Tower Road, Naples, FL 34113
RookeryBay.org
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 4 pm
Guided Kayak and Boat Tours:
(239) 530-5972
visit www.rookerybay.org