Lovers Key State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lovers Key State Park |
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| Lovers Key Carl E. Johnson State Park | |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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 Lovers Key State Park
Location in Florida
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| Location | Lee County, Florida, United States |
| Nearest city | Bonita Springs, Florida |
| Area | 712 acres (2.88 km2) |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
Lovers Key State Park is a super cool state park in Florida! It's about 712 acres, which is like 540 football fields. This park is special because it's made up of four beautiful islands: Lover's Key, Black Island, Inner Key, and Long Key. You can find it near Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs. It's a great place to explore nature and have fun outdoors.
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Fun Things to Do at Lovers Key
There are tons of exciting activities waiting for you at Lovers Key State Park! You can spend your day searching for pretty seashells, taking a dip in the ocean, or having a yummy picnic with your family and friends.
Water Adventures
If you love the water, you're in luck!
- You can go swimming in the warm Gulf waters.
- Boating is a popular way to see the park from the water.
- Try canoeing or kayaking through the calm waterways. It's a great way to spot wildlife!
Land Exploration
Prefer to stay on land? No problem!
- You can go hiking on the many trails.
- Bicycling is another fun way to explore the park's paths.
- Don't forget to relax and enjoy the sun on the beach!
Amazing Wildlife at the Park
Lovers Key State Park is home to many incredible animals. It's a fantastic place for wildlife viewing! Keep your eyes peeled for these amazing creatures.
Marine Animals
In the waters around the park, you might see:
- Gentle West Indian manatees swimming slowly.
- Playful bottlenose dolphins jumping and playing.
Land Animals and Birds
On the islands and in the sky, you can spot:
- Cute marsh rabbits hopping around.
- Over 40 different kinds of birds!
- Look for bright pink roseate spoonbills.
- Watch majestic osprey soaring overhead.
- Spot elegant snowy egrets wading in the water.
- You might even see a powerful bald eagle!
- Tiny, colorful American kestrels are also here.
- On Black Island, listen for woodpeckers tapping on trees.
- Keep an eye out for different kinds of hawks and owls.
- Small, singing warblers can be found too.
Park Features and Amenities
Lovers Key State Park has everything you need for a great day out.
Beautiful Beach and Trails
- There's a two-mile (3 km) long beach on Lovers Key, perfect for relaxing.
- Black Island has over five miles (8 km) of trails for walking or biking.
Rentals and Picnic Spots
- You can rent bicycles, canoes, and kayaks right at the park.
- There are nice picnic areas where you can eat your lunch.
- A gazebo offers a shady spot to rest.
- There's also a boat ramp if you bring your own boat.
Playgrounds for Kids
- The park has two playgrounds, which are perfect for younger visitors to have fun!
Park Hours
Lovers Key State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM until sundown, all year long.
Images for kids
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The entrance along the Bonita Beach Causeway
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South side of park
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South side of park
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Bayside entrance
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North side of park
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North side of park
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North side of park
