Visit Us
While most of the Refuge is closed to public access, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the Refuge via hiking, wildlife photography and observation, and environmental education.
Trails
Open for free, seven days a week, during daylight hours sunrise-sunset, two trails provide visitors with a chance to experience a variety of habitats on Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. The trails and short boardwalk were funded by private donations from Marge Duncan, Safari Club International, and the Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge.
The trails are located about a quarter mile north of the intersection of State Road 29 and I-75. Look for a wide open gate and brown hiking trail signs on the west side of SR29 just past the I-75 junction. Note that the hiking trails and their parking lot are south of the Refuge Headquarters office. No public access is currently offered from the Headquarters location.
Other Facilities in the Complex
Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Southwest Florida Gulf Coast Refuge Complex.
Rules and Policies
To protect the natural resources of Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge and to provide all visitors with a safe and enjoyable wildlife experience, please observe all signs and all regulations in handouts, brochures, and postings.
Please observe the following rules when visiting our refuge:
- Refuge trails and parking lot open at dawn and close at dusk.
- Overnight use and parking are prohibited.
- Keep in mind that all plants and animals are protected.
- Additionally, all government property including natural, historic, and archaeological features are protected.
- Firearms are prohibited. Carry/Conceal permit holders will abide by state law.
- Pets are prohibited. We love all animals; this is for your pet's and wildlife safety.
- Off-road vehicles are prohibited.
- Bicycles and motorized vehicles are prohibited from hiking trails for their sustainable use.
- Please do not litter, and take trash out with you to prevent wildlife conflict issues.
- Nudity is prohibited.
Locations
From Naples Area:
Take I-75 South towards Miami. Get off at Exit 80. Turn left on State Road 29, heading North. The refuge trails will be located on the left-hand side about a half mile down the road. To reach Headquarters, keep driving north on SR29. You will pass the Fire Operations Center and beige housing before arriving at an inset gate on the left. Look for the large wooden sign with a panther walking out of it and street address 12085
From Immokalee Area:
Take State Road 29 South. Headquarters is behind an inset gate on the right, look for the large wooden sign with a panther walking out of it and street address 12085. The refuge trails will be located on the last right-hand side gate right before the on/off ramps for I-75.