Myakka River State Park is a great place to see wild alligators, forests of trees draped in Spanish moss, and (as a sign proclaims) the "real Florida". Located in Sarasota, Florida of the United States of America, Myakka River State Park is one of the oldest and largest state parks in Florida, and is a short drive from the heart of Sarasota.

One of the oldest and largest state parks, Myakka protects one of the state's most diverse natural areas. The Myakka River, designated as a Florida Wild and Scenic River, flows through 58 square miles (150 square kilometers) of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands.

Understand

To contact the park administration for information, call +1 941-361-6511.

There are well-maintained restrooms at the ranger station on Park Road where you pay the park entry fee, as well as a little further into the park on the righthand side of Park Road.

History

The Florida Park Service was established in 1935 for the preservation of natural areas in the state. The state park has been under management since the 1930s with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC built most of the facilities in the park, including 5 palm log cabins, which have since been renovated for modern use.

Flora and fauna

Hammock (forest) floor in Myakka State Park

The park consists of 58 square miles of rare Florida dry prairie, wetlands, pinelands, and palm hammocks. The Myakka River, Upper, and Lower Myakka Lake, and countless small wetlands provide excellent habitat for nearly 100 species of birds, including anhinga, roseate spoonbill, and wood stork. Alligators are abundant in the park and are often seen basking on the river banks. Snakes and turtles are a bit harder to find but do call the park home. Small lizards are plentiful, and if you come in spring you might see the males puffing out their necks as a mating signal. Mammals such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and bobcats are secretive residents as well.

Get in

Myakka River State Park is on State Road 72, 9 miles east of I-75 in Sarasota. The main entrance is open from 8AM to sunset every day. The north entrance is only open on weekends and holidays from 8AM to sunset.

The back entrance (open fewer hours than main one) is south of SR 70. Go down Vernon Road until it becomes Myakka Road, which turns into Hancock Road. Keep going south and east and you will reach the back entrance.

Fees

The entrance is $6 per vehicle. The camping fee is $26 per night, includes water and electricity.

Get around

There is a paved road that runs from one end of the park to the other. Once you leave your car, you can explore 39 miles on the Florida National Scenic Trail on foot.

Horses are permitted on a 14-mile equestrian trail. Must have proof of a negative Coggins test.

Canoes and kayaks are welcome, and may also be rented at the Myakka River Outpost.

Bicycling is also permitted in the park, and bikes can be rented at Myakka Outpost.

See

Myakka River State Park Canopy Walk

The Visitor Center features short films about the park, nature displays, and brochures/maps. There are plenty of chances for wildlife viewing throughout the park, including a bird walk. An elevated boardwalk in the canopy connects to a 74-foot tower, giving you the chance to get a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

• 1 Alligators. Alligators can be found at multiple places in the park. A particularly good location is the first bridge on Park Road, 1 mile (1.4 km) past the ranger station, where you can see alligators down in the water from the safety of the bridge a few meters above them. You might just see their heads poking up above the surface of the water, or they might be swimming around and sunning themselves on the banks. If you don't see any, try coming back in 15 minutes because they come and go. Just past the bridge is a parking area and a short hiking trail through the woods. (updated Apr 2023)

Do

Educational air boat tours of Upper Myakka Lake are available daily. Just check the tour times at the dock at Myakka Outpost. A Tram Safari also runs through the park, led by knowledgeable guides. Fishing, kayaking/canoeing, and independent hiking and wildlife viewing are also popular. A boat ramp provides access to Upper Myakka Lake.

Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing from a boardwalk that stretches out over the Upper Myakka Lake, then take to the treetops with a stroll along the canopy walkway. Hikers can explore trails that cross large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie.

Signage is clear and abundant throughout the park. Maps are available at the admissions entrance, and the staff is happy to answer your questions.

Buy

Myakka Outpost sells plenty of souvenirs, from nature guides to t-shirts. Fishing gear, ice, firewood, and camping supplies are also available for sale. Open daily 9:30AM–5:30AM.

The ranger station also has a gift shop.

Eat

Myakka Outpost also has a cafe, featuring unique menu items like gator stew. Nearby Sarasota has countless restaurants if you want to explore the area further.

Sleep

Myakka River Sunset

Sarasota offers many hotel and rental options if you do not intend to camp in the park.

Lodging

Rustic log cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1934 and 1941, are available for rent. Cabins are fully equipped with bedding, kitchen utensils/appliances, electricity, and bathrooms. Televisions and phones are not included. Cabins can accommodate up to 6 guests. Pets are not allowed in the cabins. Rentals are $70.00 per night with a two-night minimum stay on weekends. For reservations, call ☏ +1-800-326-3521.

Camping

Full facility and youth campgrounds are all available. Full facility campgrounds include 50-amp electrical service, picnic tables, laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers. For full facility camping reservations, call {{phone|+1-800-326-3521}. The use of youth campgrounds requires that your group is under sponsorship from a recognized entity for a particular outing. Water, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and grills are provided. There is no electricity. For youth camping reservations, call {{phone|+1 941-361-6511}. Pets are not allowed.

Backcountry

Primitive campsites are also available. Water must be brought in with you, so plan your water needs accordingly. For reservations, call ☏ +1 941-361-6511.

Stay safe

Alligators are common in the park.

Alligators are very common in the park. Always use caution when near the water's edge. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed and accompanied at all times. Always use caution while hiking.

Go next

Sarasota, FL is a popular destination for dining, shopping, and beach activities.