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.
These wetlands 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.
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.

The Blair Visitor Center offers exhibits, bird-friendly gardens, and access to our iconic 2.25-mile boardwalk.

Keith Laakkonen
Sanctuary Director

Shawn Clem, PhD
Director of Conservation

Gio D'Archiardi
Facilities Manager

Keith Laakkonen
Sanctuary Director

Steve Nellis
Board Chair

Joe Ambrozy
Board Chair Emeritus
Dan Ault
Board Member

Deb Carrier
Board Member

Lois Kelley
Board Member

Gerry Manning
Board Member

Bruce McEver
Board Member

Brian Miller
Board Member

Mike Rohavsky
Board Member

Sharon Stilwell
Board Member
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