Lovers Key State Park Kicks Off October Nature Programs This Week

Starting this week, visitors can join outdoor activities at Lovers Key State Park. The Fort Myers Beach site will host workshops, walks, and cleanups from Oct. 15 to Oct. 25.

On Oct. 15, Bob and Valerie share their fishing know-how at the Welcome and Discovery Center. This free workshop runs from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. They'll teach local catch rules and show what gear works best in Southwest Florida waters.

Two days later, Ranger Mitch leads a trek starting at Black Island Trail Head from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Walkers will stop at a butterfly garden and learn about the wild plants and creatures living in the maritime hammock.

Kids can take part in a Junior Ranger session on Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. They'll study nature, history, fun activities, and ways to help the park. After finishing, young rangers earn special passport stamps.

Ranger Sarah talks all things manatee on Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. She'll share facts and protection efforts, though no live animals will be present.

The final event brings folks to North Beach on Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Staff will give out supplies while volunteers clean the shore. Data from collected trash helps shape how the park talks about keeping beaches clean.

Sign-ups are open now on the park's Eventbrite site. Contact Ursula Gibbons at the main office if you have any questions.

Bring water to each event. For the nature walk, wear shoes that cover your toes and pack insect spray. 

The park is located at 8700 Estero Blvd. Most events have regular entry fees, but beach cleanup volunteers get in free.