Yours to Explore, Enjoy, and Protect
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve stretches across 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forest, uplands and protected waters, encompassing 40% of Collier County coastline. The Reserve is committed to preservation through research, education, and land protection.
The Reserve's Impact Since 2000
36257
COLLIER COUNTY STUDENTS TAUGHT ON FIELD TRIPS
2130
SHARKS TAGGED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY
1816
SEA TURTLE NESTS PROTECTED
6964
PROFESSIONALS RECEIVED SCIENCE-BASED TRAINING
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
One of 29 Protected Reserves in the United States
Managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in partnership with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration and Florida International University, the Reserve stretches from Gordon Pass in Naples to the western Everglades and is supported by the non-profit Friends of Rookery Bay.
Calendar of Events
Explore
Where Education Meets Recreation
The Rookery Bay Environmental Education Center is currently closed. The Education Department has created many free virtual programs and activities for all ages.
Discover Your Rookery Bay
Rookery Bay Research Reserve is yours to explore and enjoy. Recreational opportunities abound for kayakers & boaters, campers, anglers & shellers, beachgoers, nature photographers, birdwatchers and more!
Adventure
Guided Nature Tours
Explore the unique ecosystem of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve via boat and daily kayak tours that offer an up-close and personal experience in nature. Private tours available upon request.
Book Your Tour Now
When you choose to spend the day at Rookery Bay, know that you are exploring one of the last and largest remaining undisturbed mangrove habitats in North America.
Friends of Rookery Bay
A Public-Private Partnership
Friends of Rookery Bay help Reserve staff address many challenges in managing our coastal lands and waters. We connect people to Southwest Florida’s coastal environment in support of Rookery Bay Research Reserve through an active volunteer recruitment program, outreach efforts, advocacy, and fundraising activities.
Our members, volunteers and donors enable us to be a reliable partner to the Reserve and an advocate for preservation and coastal protection. Join us!
Stay Connected with Us!
E-Newsletter
Keep up-to-date on the latest news, events, research, and fun happenings at Rookery Bay!