Otter Mound Preserve
Otter Mound Preserve is a hidden gem tucked away in the Indian Hills section of Marco Island, protecting just under 2.5 acres of rare tropical hardwood hammock and ancient history. The site is built upon a massive shell midden created by the Calusa people between 700 and 1200 AD, which provides elevated, alkaline soil that supports a lush canopy of gumbo limbo trees and strangler figs. Named after Ernest Otter, who lived on the property in the mid-20th century, the preserve is famous for the intricate, hand-built whelk shell terraces and walls he constructed to line his gardens.
Visitors can explore the preserve via a short, 0.1-mile mulched loop trail that winds past historic artifacts, including a pioneer-era wooden outhouse and interpretive signs detailing the area's rich archaeological past. Located at 1831 Addison Court, the preserve is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and features a small three-car parking lot and a bike rack.
Entry and parking at Otter Mound Preserve is free.
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