Myakka River State Park

See

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.

See 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.

Checked Apr 2023

Maps☆ Want to go

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

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.