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J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

This 7,600-acre wildlife refuge is home to 51 types of reptiles and amphibians, 32 mammal species, more than 245 species of birds. Paddling, hiking/biking trails, observation towers and a four-mile scenic drive (drive closed Fri.) Indigo Trail opens daily leading to the Wildlife Education Boardwalk's scat and tracks replications. Free hands-on Visitor & Education Center open daily with free seasonal programs and...

This 7,600-acre wildlife refuge is home to 51 types of reptiles and amphibians, 32 mammal species, more than 245 species of birds. Paddling, hiking/biking trails, observation towers and a four-mile scenic drive (drive closed Fri.) Indigo Trail opens daily leading to the Wildlife Education Boardwalk's scat and tracks replications. Free hands-on Visitor & Education Center open daily with free seasonal programs and tours. Year-round guided tram, boat and paddling tours (Tarpon Bay Explorers 239-472-8900). Bailey Tract offers more hiking, biking, and wildlife watching

 

Key Features

Things to Do

Attractions

Marine Attractions

Beaches, Parks & Nature

Beaches

Outdoor Activities & Sports

Bicycle Trails

Hiking/Nature Trails

Tours & Transportation

Tours

Boat Tours

Scenic Highway/Byway

Sightseeing Tours

Self-Guided Tours

Live Camera

Amenities

Location

Island

Suitable for Ages

All Ages

Time to Experience Activity

1 - 2 Hours, 2 - 3 Hours, Half Day

Closest Airport

RSW

Disabled Traveler Information

ADA Compliant, Wheelchair-Friendly

Pet Information

Pet Friendly

Pet Types Allowed

dogs on leashes

Activities

Back Bay Fishing, Bicycling, Birding, Boating, Children's Programs, Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Kayaking, Light Tackle Fishing, Natural Wildlife Viewing, Saltwater Fishing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Rentals

Watersport - Motorized, Pontoon, Kayak, Watersport - Non-Motorized, Bicycles, Boat, Fishing

Shopping Type

Specialty Shop, Jewelry, Books, Gifts

Category

Nature Interpretive Center, Nature Preserve, Protected Species Habitat, Scenic Waterway, Sightseeing Tours, National Park, Sunset Cruise, Water Recreation, Wildlife Management Area, Museum Science, Bicycle Trails, Boat Tours, Hiking/Nature Trails, Marine Attractions, Marker/Interpretive Station, Museum

Discounts

Other Discount

Tour Information

Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours

Tour Duration

1-4 hrs

Tour Schedule

Tram tours available - call for schedule

Key Features

Things to Do

Attractions

Marine Attractions

Beaches, Parks & Nature

Beaches

Outdoor Activities & Sports

Bicycle Trails

Hiking/Nature Trails

Tours & Transportation

Tours

Boat Tours

Scenic Highway/Byway

Sightseeing Tours

Self-Guided Tours

Live Camera

What's Nearby

The Timbers Restaurant is the award-winning dinner-house. The menu features the largest selection of fresh fish and...

The Official Concessionaire to the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Beginning February 1st, Tarpon Bay Explorers will reopen with limited hours of operation and offerings. Please check...

SCCF's mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida's coastal ecosystems through its focus on Water Quality...