Robinson Preserve consists of 682 acres of preserved mangroves, tidal marshes, and former agricultural lands which have undergone an incredible transformed into coastal wetland habitats.
After Thanksgiving and we were looking for ways to burn off that turkey and stuffing. We found our way to The Robinson Preserve in Bradenton, Florida. It was the perfect way to spend the morning. When the air is crisp as it was in November, it just feels right to be outdoors exploring nature.
The Visitor Center
Transplanted from its original location in Palmetto, the historic Valentine House now sits at the north entrance to Robinson Preserve. The house was moved 8 miles by land and sea from Palmetto. Travel back in time to the area’s farming past. You can stop; here for park information and learn more about the preserve.
Miles of Nature Trails
The most popular activity at the preserve is hiking. There are 7.5 miles of trails in the park. The trails are well-marked and heavily trafficked. If you are walking the trail, you will hear the ching-ching of bicycle bells warning walkers of riders approaching. Don’t worry there is plenty of space to share with bike riders. The trails are very well maintained and well marked with information boards explaining where you are. You can bring your dog but they must be on a leash. There is not much shade on these trails, so bring water, especially on a hot day.
Biking the Trails
Robinson Preserve has become a popular destination for folks peddling two wheels throughout the park. You won’t find any mountain bikers on the trail and cyclists must yield to pedestrians.
Water Activities
If walking or biking the trails is not your preferred method of touring the park, another way is to take to the water in your kayak or canoe. You can bring your own, or rent one at the park although it does require a reservation. You can maneuver the mangroves and see the park from a whole new perspective. The preserve is a salt marsh so watch for jumping mullet and other marine life.
Wildlife
Robinson Preserve includes coastal grasslands, salt, marsh, and mangrove habitat. These systems support a variety of rare wildlife with an opportunity to see roseate spoonbills, wood storks, white pelicans, and bald eagles, in their natural environment.
The Observation Tower
The Observation Tower is a crowd favorite at the park. The five-story tower is 40 feet tall and offers the most amazing views. From the observation tower, you can see four different counties and five bodies of water.
The Preserve consists of 682 acres! It is a coastal wetland habitat with mangroves, grasslands, saltern, and marsh. Robinson Preserve is open daily year-round (365 days per year) from sunrise to sunset. Entrance to the park is free.
We didn’t get a chance to visit this time around but If you are bringing kids, head to the south entrance of the park to visit the Canopy Zone. The zone has rope bridges, climbing nets, and slides and makes you feel as if you are playing high in the trees. The NEST or The center for Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology is located at this entrance.
If you just can’t get enough nature, head over to Emerson Point. Emerson Point Preserve is a 365-acre preserve in Manatee County, Florida, located west of Palmetto. It is where the Manatee River meets the Gulf of Mexico.
