The shores of Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park have a rich history dating back to the time of the Calusa Indians who once thrived on the abundant resources of the Gulf and bay waters. The Calusa built villages, raised mounds, and dug canals for their boats along these very shores.

Fast forward to the late 1800s, and we find Joe Wiggins making his mark on this land. The first homesteader, Wiggins, operated an apiary and trading post where he engaged in commerce with Seminole Indians and other settlers, eventually lending his name to the pass.

Eventually, through the generous contributions of Lester J. and Dellora A. Norris, Collier County acquired this land, giving rise to the ‘Delnor’ namesake. It was in 1970 when the state of Florida stepped in, purchasing the land from Collier County and transforming it into the beloved state park we know today, which officially opened its gates in 1976.