Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Park Wetland sanctuary protecting old-growth bald cypress forest
A cypress swamp preserve near Naples, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary protects boardwalk access through wetlands; visitors come for the elevated trail, birdwatching, alligators and guided nature programs.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a protected wetland and wildlife refuge in southwest Florida managed by the National Audubon Society, known for its old-growth bald cypress forest and extensive wetland habitats. It is a regional centre for birdwatching and wetland conservation.
Established and managed by Audubon to conserve one of the region’s significant old-growth cypress stands and associated wetland habitats, the sanctuary supports research, education and species protection programs. Land acquisition and habitat management have focused on protecting the swamp from drainage and development.
Located in Collier County in southwest Florida, the sanctuary lies inland from the Gulf Coast near the Naples region within the broader Big Cypress and Everglades watershed.
- Boardwalk length: Includes a 2.25-mile (about 3.6 km) raised boardwalk that gives close access to old-growth bald cypress stands and wetland wildlife without disturbing sensitive ground vegetation.
- Management and birding: Managed by the National Audubon Society, the sanctuary is a prime location for birdwatching with seasonal concentrations of wading birds and migratory species.
What to See #
- Boardwalk: A raised boardwalk that runs through old-growth bald cypress and wetland habitats, providing elevated, year-round access to interior swamp environments and wildlife viewing points.
How to Get to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary #
From Naples, drive east on Corkscrew Road (County Road 850) and follow signs to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary at 375 Sanctuary Road West. The site has a visitor centre with parking.
Tips for Visiting Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary #
- Walk the 2.25-mile boardwalk early morning for quiet and the best alligator and bird sightings.
- Ask at the visitor centre about guided tours - volunteers often know exact resident alligator locations.
- Bring polarized sunglasses to see through water glare on the swamp's tannin-stained pools.
Best Time to Visit Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary #
Winter and spring are best for birds and comfortable visiting; summers are hot and wet but biologically lively.
Weather & Climate near Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary #
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 12°C to 33°C. Abundant rainfall (1328 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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February
February is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 22°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (236 mm).
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July
July is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 22°C. Heavy rain (205 mm).
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 23°C. Heavy rain (222 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (185 mm).
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October
October is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 20°C. Moderate rainfall (77 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm).