Bonita Nature Place
Discover serene, shaded trails and abundant wildlife at Bonita Nature Place, a peaceful natural escape in Bonita Springs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Learning Center & Butterfly Garden open
Bonita Nature Place
Best Time
Learning Center & Butterfly Garden open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover serene, shaded trails and abundant wildlife at Bonita Nature Place, a peaceful natural escape in Bonita Springs.
"A nice primitive Trail very shaded connect us with the shell trail at Cullum's."
🐾 No Dogs Allowed
Remember to leave your furry friends at home, as pets are not permitted in the nature place.
🦋 Butterfly Garden Blooms
Visit between January and May for the best chance to see the Butterfly Garden in full bloom.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Butterfly Garden
A vibrant sanctuary buzzing with life, showcasing native butterflies and flora. A peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Tortoise Preserve
Observe gopher tortoises in their natural habitat. A unique opportunity to see these fascinating creatures up close.
Imperial River Trails
Shaded walking paths along the Imperial River, offering serene views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Live Bee Hive Exhibit
Witness the fascinating world of bees at work in a safe, educational exhibit. Learn about their vital role in the ecosystem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Learning Center
Embrace the Trails, Leave Pets at Home
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 No Dogs Allowed
Remember to leave your furry friends at home, as pets are not permitted in the nature place.
🦋 Butterfly Garden Blooms
Visit between January and May for the best chance to see the Butterfly Garden in full bloom.
🐢 Tortoise Sightings
Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises near their burrows, especially in the mornings.
🚶♀️ Shaded Trails
Enjoy a relaxing walk on the well-shaded trails, perfect for escaping the Florida heat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 No Dogs Allowed
Remember to leave your furry friends at home, as pets are not permitted in the nature place.
🦋 Butterfly Garden Blooms
Visit between January and May for the best chance to see the Butterfly Garden in full bloom.
🐢 Tortoise Sightings
Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises near their burrows, especially in the mornings.
🚶♀️ Shaded Trails
Enjoy a relaxing walk on the well-shaded trails, perfect for escaping the Florida heat.
🐝 Bee Hive Wonders
Don't miss the live bee hive exhibit for an educational and fascinating glimpse into the world of bees.
💧 Water Education
Consider an educational tour with Bonita Springs Utilities to learn about local water sources.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bonita Nature Place for its peaceful, shaded trails and abundant wildlife, including gopher tortoises and butterflies. While the Learning Center has limited hours and dogs are not permitted, the natural beauty and educational exhibits make it a worthwhile stop for a few hours of outdoor enjoyment.
"No dogs are allowed, but the area is full of wildlife and quiet beauty. The Learning Center has a restroom and was open when we visited. We met a man named Stan who was super friendly and full of knowledge. The center is only open January through May, Tuesday to Thursday. There’s a Butterfly Garden, a Tortoise Preserve, Kayak Lanuch and nature trails that follow along the Imperial River. We hiked about a mile and a half. It took us around 40 minutes at a a relaxed pace. Plenty of shaded areas, lots of native plants, and even a few animal sightings — including a squirrel and a heron. If you’re in the area and looking for a peaceful walk, this spot is worth the stop."
Brandy D
"We arrived after it closed but the park and nature trails were open. The butterfly garden wasn’t blooming but we saw some butterflies. We saw 2 gopher tortoises hanging outside their holes. There were lots of chairs and benches. Looked like a nice place to relax but we were there for the nature trail."
Darla Dume
"We found this nice little trail and it was great, as we were not looking to walk hours and hours… we started at the Nature Place park and ended in the Bonita Nature Place. Te weather was great and still with so many trees I’d didn’t feel hot at all on March 31, 2024 , yeah, Easter!! Is nice if you want to be in the outdoors for just a couple of hours. There are picnic tables and lot of grass for kids to play too. We were able to see the Bee Hive House, so cool to see how bees work!!"
Alicia Galarza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bonita Nature Place is located in Bonita Springs, Florida. It's accessible by car, and there's a parking area available. It's also connected to Cullum's Trail, offering multiple access points for exploration.
Yes, Bonita Nature Place is located in Bonita Springs, which is part of the greater Naples area in Southwest Florida. It's a great option for those looking for untouched nature near Naples.
While specific driving directions can vary, it's generally located off of Imperial River Road in Bonita Springs. Using a GPS with 'Bonita Nature Place' or 'Cullum's Trail' should guide you there.
Information on direct public transportation to Bonita Nature Place is limited. It's best to plan for travel by car or rideshare service.
Bonita Nature Place is approximately a two-hour drive from Miami, making it a feasible day trip or a stop on a longer Florida road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the nature trails and outdoor areas of Bonita Nature Place is generally free. However, the Learning Center has specific operating hours.
The nature trails are typically open even after the Learning Center closes. The Learning Center itself is open January through May, Tuesday to Thursday.
Admission to the outdoor areas, including the Butterfly Garden and Tortoise Preserve, is generally free.
While the nature trails are accessible daily, the Learning Center is only open Tuesday through Thursday.
There are no age restrictions for visiting the nature trails. It's a family-friendly environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore shaded nature trails, visit the Butterfly Garden and Tortoise Preserve, observe a live bee hive, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance along the Imperial River.
No, dogs are not allowed at Bonita Nature Place to protect the wildlife and natural environment.
Visitors often spot squirrels, herons, butterflies, and gopher tortoises. It's a great spot for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
Yes, it's a great place for families. The trails are not overly strenuous, and there are picnic tables and grassy areas for kids to play.
Yes, the Learning Center has a restroom, which is open during its operating hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Bonita Nature Place itself. It's a nature preserve focused on natural beauty.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.
Bonita Springs offers various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, just a short drive away from the nature place.
You'll find several cafes and coffee shops in the town of Bonita Springs, a few minutes' drive from the nature preserve.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during their visit, especially at the designated picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The Butterfly Garden, the Imperial River banks, and the Tortoise Preserve offer excellent opportunities for nature photography. The shaded trails also provide beautiful light.
Absolutely! With opportunities to see butterflies, tortoises, and various bird species, it's a fantastic location for wildlife photographers.
Yes, you can take photos of the live bee hive exhibit, but be respectful of the bees and maintain a safe distance.
Typically, drones are not permitted in nature preserves to avoid disturbing wildlife. It's best to check local regulations or signage.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Wildlife
Key Takeaway: The shaded trails and abundant wildlife make Bonita Nature Place an ideal spot for a relaxed nature walk. Remember to bring your binoculars for better wildlife viewing!
Wildlife Viewing Tips
To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, visit during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Be quiet and observant, and you might be rewarded with sightings of the local fauna. The Butterfly Garden is particularly active during its blooming season.
The Learning Center and Educational Exhibits
Beyond the bee hive, the center also highlights the importance of water conservation through educational tours offered by Bonita Springs Utilities.
While the Butterfly Garden may not always be in full bloom, it's designed to attract various butterfly species, and the Tortoise Preserve is a dedicated area for observing gopher tortoises. Community Insight: Visitors appreciate the educational aspect of the nature place, with one reviewer mentioning meeting a friendly man named Stan who was full of knowledge about the area.
Connecting with Nature and Water
This place is ideal for a few hours of outdoor enjoyment, offering a break from the hustle and bustle. With picnic tables and open grassy areas, it's a perfect spot for a relaxed family outing or a peaceful solo retreat.
Traveler Tip: Even if the Learning Center is closed, the nature trails remain open, allowing for exploration and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit