About Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Discover the rugged beauty of this natural area on the sanctuary's famous boardwalk—a 2.25-mile adventure through an enchanting wilderness and the largest old-growth bald cypress forest in North America.

Located about 30 minutes northeast of Naples, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is home to alligators, otters, white-tailed deer, and red-bellied turtles. A wide variety of wading birds, songbirds, and raptors can be seen throughout the year, while the fabulous Painted Bunting is one of many winter visitors.

In addition to being listed as a Ramsar Convention Wetland of International Importance, the Sanctuary is recognized as a Wetland of Distinction by the Society of Wetland Scientists and is a National Natural Landmark. The wetlands here filter water as it slowly flows across the land, refilling local aquifers, improving resilience against catastrophic wildfires, and improving water quality for the estuaries and beaches along the coastlines of Naples and Bonita Springs. 

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was established in 1954. Learn more about our legacy in our 70th Anniversary Retrospective magazine.

Our mission is to preserve Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and support the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems throughout the Western Everglades. We use science-driven land management and education to protect birds, other wildlife, and people.