A Day of Discovery at Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
If there’s one thing that 2024 taught me, it’s that an adventure in wild Florida is always a good idea, even if it’s just for a few hours. Case in point – while paddling across the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia was undoubtedly my biggest swamp adventure of the year, it wasn’t my only one. Late last summer, I found myself immersed in the magic of Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Naples and it was nothing short of spectacular.
Words and Photographs by Sara Sheehy
Live Wildly Lead Adventurist
This adventure was only a few hours, but Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was the perfect spot to connect with a landscape that is part of Florida’s wild soul. I had the pleasure of exploring the sanctuary alongside Live Wildly project manager Halle Goldstein, and together, we wandered through this incredible cypress swamp, taking in all the beauty of this wild place.
If you’re already planning your next big nature outing, put Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary on your 2025 bucket list. There’s something here for everyone—whether you’re an avid explorer or a family seeking some low-stress fun in nature. To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve pulled together my personal insights and tips so you’ll be ready to step into this swampy wonderland.
A Walk Among Giants
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary’s 2.25-mile boardwalk winds through pristine swampland, offering a gentle and accessible way to experience this incredible ecosystem. Here, you’ll walk amongst ancient bald cypress trees, some over 500 years old, their massive trunks entrenched in the water and their crowns soaring to the sky.
Along the way, you’ll see so much wild that I found it hard to take in. I love looking for the small moments of beauty, but you can also soak in the grand scale of the place and simply enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of a swamp teeming with life.
Pro Tip: Wear Comfortable, Sturdy Shoes
Even though the boardwalk offers an easy walk, the wood planks can be damp from rainfall or the swamp’s constant humidity. Wear footwear with a good grip—your favorite comfy sneakers or hiking shoes should do the trick. The entire boardwalk is wheelchair friendly, too.
Perfect for Families and Little Adventurers
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary isn’t just for solo wanderers or nature photographers; it’s a fantastic experience for families, too. If you’re bringing little explorers along, don’t miss the fun activities available on the sanctuary’s website. Download a scavenger hunt activity sheet beforehand, and turn your walk into a memorable family adventure. Kids will light up with excitement as they check off all the swamp creatures they spot.
Shortcut for Tired Legs
If the littlest legs in your group can’t make it through the full 2.25 miles, don’t worry—the trail has a shortcut in the middle that’ll take you back to the visitor center. The boardwalk is also great for strollers and has plentiful benches for sitting and taking a rest.
Bring Your Binoculars
One of the highlights of visiting Corkscrew is its abundance of wildlife. From herons to owls to baby alligators, the animals in this sanctuary bring the place to life. For the best views, don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars. Spotting an elusive painted bunting or a blooming ghost orchid is an experience you won’t want to miss. If you don’t have your own, the sanctuary visitor center offers rentals, though I recommend bringing your own pair if possible.
Plan Ahead
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary welcomes visitors year-round, but it’s important to plan your trip carefully to have the best experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Buy Tickets in Advance: Winter is the sanctuary’s busy season, and walk-in tickets often sell out. I recommend that you book your ticket online, which ensures that you’ll be granted entry when you arrive.
- Check Seasonal Hours: Opening hours vary between summer and winter, with longer hours in the winter months. Keep in mind that the last admission is two hours before closing time, so be sure to plan your arrival accordingly.
- Stay Hydrated: Even in the cooler months, the swamp is warm and humid. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated as you enjoy your walk. There are water refill stations by the bathrooms near the entrance.
The Magic of Connection
Beyond its beauty, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary inspires something deeper—a connection to the natural world. Walking through its cypress forest and listening to the sound of the swamp felt alive to me in a way that was both rare and precious. It’s a chance not just to see nature but to feel part of it, a brief moment where the hustle of modern life disappears.
Lace up your shoes, fill your water bottle, grab your binoculars, and go discover the magic for yourself. Who knows? This might just be the start of your next big swamp adventure.
