Babcock Ranch

Courtesy of Babcock Ranch

To experience the best nature has to offer, take a day and visit two parks approximately an hour north of Lovers Key - the Babcock Wilderness Ranch and Manatee Park.

Courtesy of Babcock Ranch

The Babcock Wilderness Ranch is a 90,000 acre working ranch in both Lee and Charlotte counties. Guest's board a custom made swamp buggy that will take you through unspoiled pinewoods, fresh water marsh and sections of the Telegraph Cypress Swamp. While touring the ranch, experienced tour guides will give detailed descriptions of the various plants and birds you'll see as well as the Florida cracker cattle and horses raised on the ranch. Keep your eyes open you'll more than likely see some wild animals like boar, turkeys and of course an alligator or two. The ranch even offers an area where you will observe Florida panthers in the wild. You won't be disappointed taking this tour. There may be even a surprise or two during your journey. 

On your way back to the resort, stop by Manatee Park to view the endangered Florida manatee in its natural environment. During the winter months of November thru March, manatees leave the cooler gulf water and swim up to the Orange River. Many would migrate to the warm water around the Florida Power & Light (FPL) facility. In 1996, a 17 acre regional park was built near the facility through cooperative efforts of several organizations and sponsors such as FPL, Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau, and more. There are picnic areas, shelters, fishing cove, pier, kayak rentals and butterfly garden. It's a great way to end your day after your visit to the Babcock Ranch. 

Attraction Information:

Babcock Ranch
All Tours by Reservation Only
Hours: November thru May 9am thru 3pm
Location: 8000 State Road 31, Punta Gorda
Phone: 800-500-5583

Manatee Park
Hours: 8am-sunset Daily (view Manatees from November thru March)
Location: 10901 State Road 80, Fort Myers
Phone: 239-694-3537