Robinson Preserve near Anna Maria Island

Robinson Preserve on Anna Maria Island is a natural expanse of dense mangroves, tidal marsh, and intricate waterways. If you land in the middle of Robinson Preserve, you may think you have just entered a time capsule to a prehistoric age- alligators and all.

The Basic of Robinson Preserve

Robinson Preserve is an epic protected land, 682 acres of protected wetlands for you to peruse and explore. It is collectively funded by a group of institutions, including the Florida Communities Trust Florida Forever Program, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and more.

This preservation includes the removal of invasive species, the opening up of additional land for new plant growth, and the protection of the intricate waterway systems that are vital to the area’s continued prosperity.

Overall, the preserve has many things to do and sights to see.

Preserve Trails

Robinson Preserve is easily one of the most isolated places to hike in Florida. The preserve has one main paved trail that runs almost the entire length of the area. It begins at the single main entrance and circles the entire preserve, ending back at Manatee Ave. You can walk back from Manatee or take a short drive by cab over to the main entrance once again.

The trail is open to a variety of activities. You can bike, walk, or walk your dog. Leashes are required. Keep in mind, while dogs are allowed in Robinson Preserve and the trails, they are not allowed on the county beaches.

Biking is only allowed on designated paths, which includes the main paved path through the island. Other connected Trailways may not allow for bike access.

The My Manatee county website provides a detailed map of the preserve and its family-friendly nature trails.

Enjoying the Atmosphere

You can sit down and relax at many different points within the preserve. There are about four different picnic sites. They have numerous tables and chairs for your convenience and a pavilion space to safely avoid the sun or rain.

While you can find many Anna Maria wildlife areas just about anywhere in the preserve, there’s one particular spot that takes all the attention. Within the preserve is a brilliant tower overlooking the coastal wetlands. It spins three floors up, ending at a glorious balcony observation platform.

Fishing

Fishing is available at every pier and bridge location in the preserve by rod and reel only. All you have to do is find a nice open spot over the water and toss your lure in. Be aware that leaving any trail is prohibited. Preserve leaders have helped fund a number of dedicated fishing areas for your convenience, with posted signage guiding you to viable fishing locales.

Finally, the preserve is home to animals in the water and in the air. Manatees and dolphins have been known to wander the waterways, while otters, pink flamingos, and a wide range of shorebirds have been spotted in the marshes.

The Robinson Preserve is typically open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with extended seasonal hours to 7:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. during the fall. Access is completely free.

Come to one of the largest and most escapist-oriented areas on the Gulf coast of Florida. See rare wildlife and soak in the sights of a world you may never have seen before. You don’t even need to go far.