Myakka River State Park

Explore The Florida Wilderness!

While exploring Myakka River State Park one gets the definite sense that this is a very delicate ecosystem. Various forms of wildlife co-exist in this subtropical environment, sometimes peacefully and gracefully, sometimes violently, but there’s always something new to learn and witness on a trip through this wilderness.

This just so happens to be one of my favorite places to visit in the Sarasota area and in all of southwest Florida, for that matter. It’s not just an attraction. It’s real Florida, real wild!

The park, which was created and developed in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is comprised of wetlands, acres of prairies, 39 miles of hiking trails and subtropical forests. In a word, it's spectacular.

• The level of comfort you will have while in the park depends on the particular weather and season.
  
  
• Summer months become quite subtropical and it’s best to have a cooler along with bottled water or other refreshments, although there is food and drink available at the Myakka Outpost.
  
  
• Dress for the temperature and conditions you anticipate. I’ve never gone to Myakka in anything other than shorts and cool t-shirts and a hat to shade the sun. But if you’re going to be hiking through brush and prairies you’ll want to protect your legs from scratches.
  
  
• Most of Myakka can be experienced in light weight clothes and shoes during the warmer months. Other times of the year it may pay to take along a sweatshirt or jacket and long pants, especially over the fall and winter season, when it can get chilly at Myakka.
  
  
• Stop by the visitor center upon entering the park to find out information about special programs, guided tours or activities the park may be sponsoring, such as nature walks, bird watching, campfire programs and more.
  
  
• Many activities are accessible to visitors with disabilities. If you need assistance you may contact the park office at: (941) 361-6511.
  
  
• Admission to the park: $5 per vehicle for up to 8 people and the park is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to sundown.
  
  
  Directions: To get to Myakka River State Park from the Sarasota area simply follow S.R. 72 (Clark Road) east approximately 9 miles to the park entrance. You can get to S.R. 72 from I-75 and from U.S. Rt. 41. Both run through the Sarasota area.
  
  

  So, if you’d like, come along with me now on a cyber-tour through Myakka River State Park. Just click on the links below:
  
  
  

  Highlights of Myakka River State Park:

  
  

  The Myakka River State Park Nature Trail

  You’ll discover a peaceful connection between yourself and nature as you leisurely stroll through the shady oak-palm hammocks that border the Myakka River, along the Nature Trail. With lush greens, light colored sand and sunlight sparkling through the palm fronds, you’ll think you’re in paradise. It's only about a 40 minute walk through the trail. Click here to see pictures and read more about the Myakka River State Park Nature Trail.
  
  

  The Myakka Canopy Walkway and Observation Tower

  Ever wondered what it would be like to be a bird and live in the tree tops? Well, the next best thing is having the ability to watch the birds and other creatures in the tree tops. This is what you can do when you walk through the Myakka Canopy Walkway, some 25 feet off the ground, high in the tree tops. Then, if you dare, you can walk up to the top of the Observation Tower and look out over one of the most beautiful of Florida State Parks. See more about the Myakka Canopy Walk and Observation Tower.
  
  

  The Myakka State Park Birdwalk

  From Eagles to Osprey, to Herons, Northern Harriers, Vultures, Egrets, Red Tail Hawks and many more, don't miss stopping at the Myakka State Park Birdwalk. It's peaceful, quiet and serene, yet you can see all the "live action" of nature right before your eyes. You may enjoy this part of the park so much that it'll be hard to pull yourself away. Here's more on the Myakka State Park Birdwalk.
  
  

  The Myakka River State Park Airboat Guided Tour

  Take a ride and guided tour on one of two of the world's largest airboats, the "Gator Gal" or the "Myakka Maiden." This one-hour guided tour is a great way to see the Myakka Lake and park right from the water and learn some interesting facts about the park's history and wildlife. Often times on this tour you'll cross paths with wildlife such as alligators, birds and turtles. Click here and learn more about these guided tours.
  
  

  The Alligators of Myakka River State Park

  Alligators can be found in all waters of Myakka River State Park therefore you should use extreme caution when near them. The number of gator sightings depends on the time of the year. During summer months higher temperatures keep the alligators under water most of the time. But you can never be sure of where or when you might see a gator, since there are hundreds. Learn more about the American Alligator of Myakka River State Park.
  
  

  Florida Camping at Myakka River State Park

  What type of camping do you like to do? Do you prefer the comfort of RV camping or sleeping in a travel trailer or log cabin? Or are you the really rugged type who likes to sleep in a tent, or in primitive camping conditions. Whatever your "camping comfort level" is, a great Florida camping adventure can be had in the outdoors at Myakka River State Park, one of the best camping spots in Florida. Here's more about your next Florida camping adventure.
  
  
  

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