Robinson Nature Preserve: A Tranquil Florida Escape

If you are looking for something different to do on Florida’s Gulf Coast besides beaches, boat tours, and water-sports, then you may want to check out one of the numerous beautiful parks and preserves found scattered throughout the area. I really love the park system around the Bay; nearly every weekend, I am out and about looking for gators, enjoying a nature hike, and/or birdwatching.

All too often, both tourists and locals skip the beautiful, quaint Florida parks, which offer a wonderful glimpse into the native plants and wildlife found in the region, in favor of theme parks and other pricey tourist activities. I love the theme parks too, but there is another side of the state worth checking out that many miss out on.

One of the many great preserves I recommend adding to your bucket list is Robinson Nature Preserve. Not only is it a free experience, but parking is such a breeze compared to the busy beaches. You will get in a healthy workout, enjoy great views of the iconic Sunshine bridge, and get the opportunity to do all sorts of bird and wildlife watching. I’ve been to a lot of preserves and this one definitely has that rustic vibe going for it; I definitely feel lost in nature as soon as I arrive.

A bird watching oasis

Birdwatching is very popular at this preserve and really most others in the region. This is one of just hundreds of sites located along the Great Florida Birding trail, which are basically sites known for their many birding opportunities. Florida in general is a dream destination for anyone who loves birds.

We saw many birds, including a Bald Eagle, unfortunately we did not get in the camera out in time. We did end up seeing the nest later on during our return hike. White pelicans, spoonbills, ospreys, and great horned owls are also commonly sighted.

A quiet oasis away from the tourists

Robinson is one of the nicest parks in the Tampa Bay region. Unlike many other parks, it is located in a quiet residential area, far away from any highway noise and congestion. Walking around on a cool, cloudy day, I almost felt as if I was not in Florida (as a native of the Midwest, this is sometimes a good thing!).

The serene views of the Bay, absence of crowds, and ability to connect with nature in such a quiet setting was a great opportunity, one that unfortunately does not come along all too often in this busy touristy section of the state.

The observation tower

The major highlight of a visit to the preserve is enjoying the magnificent views of the Bay via a 40 foot observation tower. The beautiful trees surrounding the preserve make for some pretty nice photo opportunities.

From here, you can see all the way to the mesmerizing Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This iconic bridge was first built in 1954. Portions of the bridge collapsed in 1980 following a severe thunderstorm and it was later rebuilt in 1987. Today, it operates as the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. It’s the longest fishing pier in the world. You can learn more about fees and species of fish commonly caught on the Florida State Parks website.

Why you should visit this great preserve

It’s a welcome escape for Pinellas and Hillsborough County residents seeking a quiet oasis from the crowds, strips malls, and traffic that encompass the area. For anyone looking for a low-key park, it’s worth the drive. The beautiful mangrove forests and salt marshes provide a picturesque setting for any outdoor activity, whether it be walking a nature trail or kayaking. I would think birdwatchers would be the most impressed as it is one of the best spots on the Great Florida Birding trail.

I urge all locals to get out there once in a while and explore the natural side of this state. Too often we get caught up in the daily grind and forget about the hidden pockets of beauty found all around us. Tourists as well can easily incorporate a trip here into any vacation itinerary. Even if you only have time for the 1/2 mile walk to the tower and back, a quick visit is worth it for the views alone. In addition to the tower trail, a 2 mile fitness walk and several loops around the water are available.

In my opinion, a walk around the tranquil trails here is time more well spent than any made made tourist attraction or overcrowded, hot beach. If you have lived here for a while (or vacationed more than once), you know how crowded the beaches can get. So grab your gym shoes and enjoy a little bit of true Florida beauty (before it’s all gone!).

Things to Know

• The trails do not offer much shade. Wear sunblock and a hat. Avoid hot summer afternoons. I would recommend a fall or winter visit when the sunny skies will be more enjoyable.
• Try to plan your visit in the morning hours to avoid the harsh afternoon sun. Even if the actual temperature is not that hot, the blaring sun can feel much hotter in Florida. To me, 60 degrees feels like at least 80! Preferably, try to schedule your visit on a cloudy day.
• Bring a full water bottle. Walking in the intense heat with high humidity and no shade really makes you work up a sweat. I often bring gatorade too.
• Wear comfortable gym shoes, not sandals.
• Kayak and paddleboard rentals available. Advance registration required. Personally, I would never kayak in an area known for gators: too scary and risk in my opinion. I don’t know how anyone does it!
• Consider bringing with a bicycle. Biking the trails allows you to see much more, in a shorter time period. It’s just as great a workout as walking, only less time consuming.
• Leased pets are okay.
• Give yourself plenty of time. Park hours vary throughout the year. Check the posted sign for daily closing times and adjust your mileage accordingly.

Location: 1704 99th Street Northwest, Bradenton, FL 34209. Parking is free.