Naples, Florida Best Kept Secrets

Some of Naples most beautiful, pristine spots are found in the nature reserves. Often overlooked by visitors, here are some parks and picnic spots that you should make time for.

Corkscrew Swamp

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is open for visitors every day of the year except during violent weather. Wildlife sightings vary depending on the time of year, the weather, and even the time of day. Birds, reptiles, mammals, insects, and a variety of native plants including wild orchids may be seen from the boardwalk.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
375 Sanctuary Road West
Naples, FL 34120
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Big Cypress National Preserve

Although the Big Cypress National Preserve is contiguous with Everglades National Park to the south and east, it is floristically much different. Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to a diversity of wildlife, including the elusive Florida Panther. The freshwaters of the Big Cypress Swamp, essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades, support the rich marine estuaries along Florida’s southwest coast.

Big Cypress National Preserve is located in Southwest Florida between the cities of Miami and Naples. Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley) and U. S. Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) are the main roads that traverse the site.
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Best Place to Picnic

Lowdermilk Park

Not only a great kid friendly park, but this beach park is great for picnics. The kids will enjoy the nice sand beach, play area and volleyball courts, and everyone will appreciate the gazebos, picnic areas and concessions. Nearby sandwich shops and restaurants provides easy access to a wide variety of eateries. Complete with restrooms, benches and even a cafe, this park is ready for warm sunset dinners.

Click here for Google directions.