The Latest Updates
COVID-19
"Ding" Darling Day @ Lakes Park has been postponed until Spring 2022. Stay tuned for more details.
Current Refuge Mask Policy as of August 2021
In areas of substantial or high community transmission, agencies must require all federal employees, onsite contractors, and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask inside of federal buildings. COVID data is rising sharply in Lee and Collier counties, according to CDC data tracker. "Ding" Darling is, therefore, in an area of "high community transmission."
OPEN
"Ding" Darling Visitor & Education Center open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Front Desk only; exhibits closed)
The Center will close on Fridays and Sundays until further notice.
The Nature Store flagship open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Nature Store2 at 2250 Periwinkle Way open Tuesday-Saturday 1- a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wildlife Drive (7:00-5:30 Saturday through Thursday - closed Friday); new entrance fees in effect.
"America's Best Restrooms" and the water bottle fill station daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Trails at Bailey Tract open daily sunrise to sunset
Tarpon Bay Explorers, the Refuge's recreation concession: rentals, tram tours (at 50% capacity), paddling tours, boat tours, fishing charters, boat ramp, and gift shop are open. Call 239-472-8900 for the latest information and reservations.
All Refuge tours and Tarpon Bay Explorers tours remain limited and distanced.
Stay tuned to this site for more news of changes and reopenings.