Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Naples

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida stands as a leading environmental organization dedicated to protecting the region’s water, land, and wildlife. Established in 1964 by a group of concerned citizens who successfully halted the construction of a roadway through Rookery Bay, the Conservancy has since played a vital role in safeguarding Southwest Florida’s delicate ecosystems through policy advocacy, scientific research, education, and wildlife rehabilitation.

Located on 21 acres in Naples, south of the Naples Zoo, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is both a center for environmental advocacy and a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. Its efforts extend across five Southwest Florida counties: Collier, Charlotte, Lee, Hendry, and Glades, ensuring a broad impact in preserving the region’s natural heritage.

The Nature Center, built in 1981 and renovated in 2013, features LEED-certified buildings and eco-friendly infrastructure. It includes the Von Arx Wildlife Hospital, rehabilitating 3,300+ animals annually; Dalton Discovery Center, with live exhibits, a 5,000-gallon aquarium, and a touch tank; Ferguson Learning Lab, a STEM hub with a Hall of Invasive Species; Eaton Conservation Hall, home to the Jeannie Meg Smith Theater for educational programs; and Little Explorer Play Zone, an interactive space for kids under 5.

Beyond the educational exhibits, visitors can explore the Conservancy’s natural surroundings through walking trails, filter marshes, and the Allyn Family Dock and Lagoon, home to a fleet of electric tour boats for guided excursions along the Gordon River. Adventurous visitors can also rent kayaks to explore the local waterways at their own pace. The Conservancy is also designated on the Great Florida Birding Trail, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

For over 60 years, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has remained a pillar of environmental stewardship, working with community leaders, businesses, and partner agencies to balance regional growth with ecological preservation. With its commitment to scientific research, policy advocacy, and education, the Conservancy continues to shape a future where land, water, and wildlife thrive for generations to come.