LAKES REGIONAL PARK |
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| Address | Contact Information | Other Information | |
| 7330 Gladiolus Drive Fort Myers, FL 33908 |
Christine Bailey (239) 533-7581 cbailey@leegov.com |
Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation |
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| Directions | Staff | Events | |
| Google Map/Directions | Staff allocated to facility's budget | Events Calendar | |
| Hours | |||
7:00AM to Dusk
Open seven days a week. No Alcohol, Pets, or Electric / Motorized Vehicles at any time.
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| Information | |||
 Click here to find out about the grand opening of the Community Garden at Lakes Park ALL SHELTER RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL PARKS AND RECREATION ADMINISTRATION 533-7275 MON- FRI 8:30AM-4:30PM, or ESTERO RECREATION CENTER 498-0415 MON-SUN 7AM-7PM, or CLICK HERE. This 279 acre facility features 158 acres of freshwater quarry lake. The lake, with depths ranging from a few inches to 20 feet, boasts good fishing for bass, bream and other fresh and saltwater species. The lake also supports an array of wildlife, including the American Alligator. A variety of birds including Ibis, Egrets, Herons, Cormorants and Anhingas will offer good bird watching and photographic opportunities. Pavilion rentals range from $15.00 - $50.00 depending on the day and size of pavilion. All pavilions have electricity, picnic tables, water, BBQ grills and ceiling fans. We also rent a screened in Lodge for $125.00 per day and a $250.00 deposit which will be refunded to you 3-6 weeks after your event if there is no damage. The lodge features bathrooms, kitchen (refrigerator, Freezer, stove, sinks, microwave and ice machine), ceiling fans and cafeteria style tables with chairs attached. You can also rent our wedding Gazebo or Amphitheater. YOU CAN NOT RESERVE BOTH THESE ON LINE YOU MUST CALL THE PARK FIRST (239) 533-7575. All rentals are for PRIVATE PARTIES ONLY. If you are planning on an event such as a walk, run, fundraiser or community event please contact park (239) 533-7575 before reserving any pavilion/lodge. IF YOU DO NOT CONTACT PARK OFFICIALS YOUR EVENT WILL BE CANCELLED OR POSTPONED THE DAY OF. The park contains approximately 2.5 miles of paved or natural paths for walking, jogging, biking, and most other non-motorized activities. Lakes Park has also been designated by the American Heart Association as an official "Smart! Walking Path!" We have three on site vendors Throughout the park the exotic vegetation such as Australian Pine, Brazilian Pepper and Melaleuca have been removed and replanted with native species that will attract and support a more diverse population of wildlife. We welcome people with disabilities and will comply with the American Disabilities Act (ADA). For further information regarding our accommodations and inclusion, please contact Amanda Gutierrez (239) 267-2181. |
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| History | |||
Lakes Park began as a man-made area where rock was quarried during the 1960's. The water comes from groundwater influx, surface water run-off and rainfall. The depth varies from a few inches to over 20 feet. It covers 158 acres of the 279 acre facility. It was purchased by the County in 1978. In 1982 ground was broken and it was developed for recreational use with the official "Grand Opening" on April 21, 1984. The basic facility has remained relatively unchanged since then with a few exceptions. In 1991 the "Fragrance Garden" was introduced and has grown from a small area of fragrant herbs, flowers and plants to a botanical type status with wide variety of plants, trees, shrubs and ground cover. In addition to this a "Memory Lane" was also started. This is achieved by monetary donations which dedicates Trees, shrubs, plants or benches to the memory of loved ones that are designated by plaques. The Lakes Park Botanic Garden is in the conceptual phase. Fred Johnson, Planning Manager for Lee County Parks, and Greg Diserio, Partner at David Jones Jr. and Associates, collaborated on the project. A presentation meeting was held on March 19th at Lakes Park. The concept plan will be available to view soon. In 1992 the re-alignment of Gladiolus Drive brought changes to the entrance of the facility and initiated the process of exotic vegetation removal and the replanting of native species, which continues today. In 1995 the "Miniature Railroad" opened for business. This is a scale model railroad that offers a 15 minute ride through the northern areas of the park. The ride runs beside the lake, through a tunnel and past several displays, such as scale villages, towns and natural areas. In 2004 the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation a 501.C3 non for profit group was formed. This organization is organized by Lee County business leaders along with dedicated citizens who recognize Lakes Park as an extremely important green area in Lee County. This foundation is dedicated to helping restore Lakes Lark to a native Florida wildlife environment through assisting Lee County Parks & Recreation with the implementation of its Master Plan. The plan includes themed areas of native vegetation, additional meandering boardwalks, paths and nature trails through the Lakes preserve and new park amenities. Overall, the future restoration and enhancements will create an even more attractive wildlife environment for the community to enjoy. If you are interested in being a member of this group to help restore and preserve this beautiful park please call 533-7575 or visit the foundation website at www.lakesparkenrichmentfoundation.org. |
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