Robinson Preserve birding guide
680+ acres of restored coastal wetland with an observation tower, a treetop canopy walk, and spoonbills year-round.
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Quick facts
- Where
- 1704 99th St NW, Bradenton, FL 34209 (Northwest Bradenton, Manatee County)
- Hours
- Sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year, with occasional closures for events and projects.
- Fees
- Free.
- Best time
- The preserve is open sunrise to sunset. Mornings are best for birding and for beating the heat.
Overview
Robinson Preserve is a Manatee County coastal preserve of more than 680 acres: mangroves, tidal marsh, and former farmland restored to wetlands between the mouth of the Manatee River, Perico Bayou, and Palma Sola Bay. Manatee County Audubon notes 226 species recorded on eBird.
The preserve has about five miles of paved and unpaved trails, an observation tower, kayak trails, and the NEST nature center with a treetop Canopy Zone.
Birds to expect by season
Late October and November
Migrant ducks and pelicans arrive in fall. The newer expansion and NEST areas are the best places for ducks. The north entrance gives good views of shorebirds, waders, rails, swallows, and raptors.
- American White Pelican
- Northern Shoveler
- American Wigeon
- Blue-winged Teal
- Redhead
- Savannah Sparrow
- swallows
- warblers
- Roseate Spoonbill
- Wood Stork
Year-round regulars
- Roseate Spoonbill
- Wood Stork
- Brown Pelican
- Osprey
- Magnificent Frigatebird
- herons
- egrets
- gulls
- terns
Spring and summer
Migration brings swallows and warblers. Least Tern and Great Crested Flycatcher are also on the preserve's bird list.
Where to park
There are three main lots. The North Entrance (1704 99th St NW) has the Valentine House, restrooms, and trail access to the 40-foot observation tower. The South Entrance at the end of 9th Ave NW (10299 9th Ave NW) serves the expansion, the NEST, and the Canopy Zone. The Winston Tract lot (9800 Manatee Ave) connects to Robinson and Perico Preserves.
Trails and viewing spots
- Observation tower near the North Entrance.
- Expansion ponds and the NEST area, the best spots for ducks.
- Canopy Zone treetop boardwalk loop, with mounted binoculars overlooking wading birds.
- Winston Tract perimeter, via the Manatee Ave walk-through entrance.
Tips
- As of late October 2026, the county lists temporary trail closures for October and November, and tram tours are cancelled because of hurricane damage. Check conditions before you go.
- Stay on designated trails. Most are packed shell.
- Leashed dogs are allowed. Unattended cars left after hours are towed.
Accessibility
One paved trail runs the length of the preserve from the entrance to Manatee Ave, and there is a rubberized pedestrian-only trail. The Canopy Zone's treetop boardwalk loop welcomes all ages and abilities.
FAQ
Is Robinson Preserve free?
Yes. There is no admission fee.
What are Robinson Preserve's hours?
Sunrise to sunset daily, with occasional closures for special events and projects.
Where should birders park at Robinson Preserve?
Use the North Entrance (1704 99th St NW) for the observation tower and marsh, or the South Entrance at 9th Ave NW for the expansion ponds, NEST, and Canopy Zone.
Are there roseate spoonbills at Robinson Preserve?
Manatee County Audubon lists Roseate Spoonbill among the birds you may see year-round.
Sources
Checked 2026-10-29. Hours, fees, and closures change, so confirm with the managing agency before you go.