The refuge was established by President Woodrow Wilson on July 1, 1920, through Executive Order 3299 as a ". . . preserve and breeding ground for native birds" upon the recommendation of Thomas and Mina Edison. Originally, the Caloosahatchee NWR consisted of several mangrove islands. However, shoreline development, dre
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 239-472-1100 · dingdarling@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Joppa Lane, Wildwood Lane, West Marina Drive, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Pine Island National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
