Size
46,000 acres
Location
Eastern Charlotte County, west of Port Charlotte
About the Property
A joint acquisition effort between the District and the State, the preserve consists of various non-contiguous parcels that partially surround the Charlotte Harbor estuary and its major tributaries. All lands are managed as a state park.
The preserve is regionally important because it provides protection to the Gasparilla Sound/Charlotte Harbor, Cape Haze, Matlacha Pass and Pine Island Sound aquatic preserves. All these surface water features and their tributaries have been designated Outstanding Florida Waters. The preserve protects the water quality and natural resources in these adjacent sensitive areas and creates a continuity of habitats for wildlife.
Property contains vital mangrove and saltmarsh wetlands with portions of freshwater marsh, coastal scrub, tropical hardwood hammocks and pinelands. The outstanding feature is its estuarine environment, which offers rich natural habitat and a diversity of wildlife. The preserve has an inspiring coastline with miles of open bay waters, tidal creeks and segments on the Myakka, Peace and Caloosahatchee rivers. Guided tours within the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center area offered to the public from November to April.
Access and Parking
- Main access to southern public use area in Cape Haze Management Unit of state park is off CR771.
- Access to northern public use area in Punta Gorda Management Unit is off Burnt Store Road (not shown on map).
- Access to state park lands acquired by the District via a walk-thru gate off CR 771 and from the water.
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.
Restrooms and Water
Punta Gorda Management Unit of preserve has restrooms and visitors’ center.
Recreational Opportunities
Boating and Paddling
Available in open bay waters and along the Myakka, Peace and Caloosahatchee rivers.
Fishing
- Boat fishing throughout preserve.
- Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for license requirements.
Hiking
- Extensive trails in Cape Haze Management Unit of preserve.
- Primary hiking trailhead off CR 771 with designated marked foot trail.
- Two designated hiking trails at Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center. One winds through pine flatwoods and one through salt marsh and mangrove forests.
- Contact preserve for trail maps.
Nearby Recreation Lands
- Gasparilla Sound/Charlotte Harbor and Cape Haze aquatic preserves
- Island Bay National Wildlife Refuge
- Pine Island and Matlacha Pass national wildlife refuges
For More Information
Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park, (941) 575-5861
