Picayune Strand State Forest

Picayune Strand State Forest is a large protected area in Collier County comprising cypress swamps, wet pine flatwoods, and wet prairies. The landscape is crisscrossed by a network of former development roads now used for exploration.

The area was heavily logged for cypress timber in the 1940s before developers attempted to build a residential subdivision. The project failed due to the water conditions and the land was later preserved as a protected forest.

The forest is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail system and draws bird watchers who come to observe native species in their natural habitat. Marked trails like the Sabal Palm Trail allow visitors to explore the local wildlife and vegetation in an organized way.

A day-use fee of $2.00 is collected at self-service stations throughout the forest. Visitors should bring plenty of water and be prepared for insects and wet conditions, especially during the rainy season.

The forest serves as a critical refuge for threatened species like Florida panthers and black bears that hunt and breed in these wet habitats. Rare birds such as red-cockaded woodpeckers also find the undisturbed conditions they need to thrive here.