Manatee Park in Fort Myers is More than Just Grass and Trees

Manatee Park in Fort Myers is managed by the Lee County Parks and Recreation Department. First opened in 1996, it measures 17 acres in size and is seasonably staffed by county employees as well as volunteers who serve as interpretive naturalists, trained by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Native plant habitats and gardens at Manatee Park have been planted and are maintained by the \n _blank Coccoloba Chapter ofthe Florida Native Plant Society .

According to the park service, Manatee Park attracts about 100,000 visitors annually. Most head to this park to view its most intriguing residents - the endangered Florida manatee. The best time to observe these giant animals, also known as sea cows, is between the months of November and March, when they are most abundant. Manatees do not generally hang around the park in the hot summer months in Fort Myers but can be quite plentiful during the rest of the year. Manatee Park is also home to an extensive butterfly garden that can be explored by park visitors all year long.

Nearby picnic tables and shelters are also available on a first come, first serve basis for those who wish to partake of a meal inside the park or shelters may be rented from the Lee County Parks and Recreation and reserved in advance. A tropical-style Chickee Hut may also be reserved for private use.

In addition, the Orange River is located near Manatee Park and provides several opportunities for recreation for those visiting the park. Fishing is available from the pier and a local outfitter rents kayaks for those who wish to paddle along this gentle river. Several times each week, Orange River guided kayak trips depart from the park and include a brief instructional clinic and all equipment needed for the tour. Some guided trips head to the Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve, where paddlers will enjoy a short nature walk and then head back to the park. Some paddling experienced is required for the Caloosahatchee Creeks trip. Pre-registration is required for all trips and clinics.

For walkers and hikers, a boardwalk leads through various habitats and nature study areas including mangrove, hardwood, pine flatwoods, Florida oak groves, and a wetlands area. Additional paved walkways are also suitable for walking or jogging.

A small visitor's center provides basic information about the park, with a playground for children located nearby. In addition, the onsite Live Oak Amphitheater is where park staff present daily informational sessions about the Florida manatee and the park's resident butterflies. The kayaking clinics are also held at the amphitheatre as are other occasional special programs.

Manatee Park in Fort Myers, located near exit 141 of Interstate 75, is open year round from 8 am until sunset. Restrooms are available and a gift shop offers manatee-related souvenirs as well as books and other gifts.