Myakka River State Park can be found just east of Sarasota and lies between Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The park is one of the oldest and largest parks in the state covering 37,000 acres. There is plenty to do with hiking, camping, paddling, birding, and more all along the Myakka River.
Paddling
With 12 miles of river to explore, the Myakka River is perfect for your next paddling adventure. We did not see anyone paddling during our visit because the water was so low. The park also offers a boat tour, but because of the dry conditions, they were not operating.
Hiking
A major draw to the park is the hiking at Myakka River State Park. The Myakka Trail is a 38.9-mile loop around the park but there are plenty of shorter hikes to explore as well. The main drive through the park will take you to multiple trailheads for people to get out and hike. Some of the trails at the park allow for horseback riding and biking.
Canopy Walkway
The most popular hike is the Canopy Walkway, home of America’s first public treetop trail. The walkway is a suspension bridge 25 feet in the air that spans 100 feet. At the exit of the bridge, you can climb up the tower to 74 feet and take in the view of the park from above the treetops.
The Canopy Walkway trail connects to the Nature Walk – a short look through the palms of Florida. We decided to take the hike but unfortunately due to damage from Hurricane Ian, the walkway is closed which was a big disappointment at the time of my visit.
Biking
Biking is a popular option as there are many bike trails throughout Myakka River State Park.
Camping
Myakka River State Park has three campgrounds to choose from complete with electricity and water. There is also primitive camping available if you prefer fewer amenities. All campgrounds do have restrooms with showers available. All campsites must be reserved in advance through the ranger station.
Wildflowers
If you visit the park in May and June, the yellow flowers will be in full bloom covering the meadows and forest floors. As a matter of fact, that was the highlight of the visit for us. Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is the official state of Florida Wildflower. As the dry season gives way to the summer storms, Coreopsis covers the rolling field with bright yellow blossoms.
The Coreopsis bloom is a beautiful sight to see. Park Rangers say they have many requests for photo shoots for weddings and senior high school pictures.
Wildlife
Wildlife is abundant at Myakka River State Park. The Myakka River connects two bodies of water and is home to many alligators.
If you are a wildlife photographer, you will not have a hard time finding a subject. Whether you are hiking, paddling, or simply driving your car through the park, you are sure to see plenty of wildlife in its natural habitat.
Bird Watching
Take a stroll down the Myakka Birdwalk. There are informative signs about common birds and wildlife that help with identifying species. Learn about the local and migratory birds that visit the Myakka River State Park.
Don’t forget to bring your binoculars or just bring some quarters to look through the spotting scope. You might even get lucky and spot the local alligators while you’re there.
Myakka River State Park is just east of Sarasota on Highway 72. The parks offer the nature lover a break from city life for a day. filled with adventure and education.
Entrance Fee: $6 per vehicle
Address: 13208 State Road 72
Sarasota FL
Another State Park to check out is Jonathan Dickinson State Park on Florida’s East Coast. The Loxahatchee River, Florida’s first federally designated “Wild and Scenic River,” winds its way through the park under a canopy of cypress trees.
