Experience one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks!
Myakka State Park sits just outside of Sarasota near Florida’s gulf coast, tucked along the 72-mile-long Myakka River. This prime location offers visitors an opportunity to experience nature at its finest thanks to a diverse expanse of unspoiled land. Designated as one of Florida’s first state parks in the 1930’s, the history of this area dates back long before when the Seminole Indian tribe inhabited this region.
The park contains several different ecosystems including prairies, marshes, pine woodlands, oak hammocks, tropical palms, rivers, and wetlands. From hiking trails to campgrounds, Myakka caters to all visitors with various interests and skill levels. Read on for the best things to do in Myakka River State Park!
Where is Myakka State Park?
Myakka River State Park is located in Sarasota County, Florida. The park spans over 58 square miles and is situated in the subtropical region of southwest Florida, providing a year-round warm climate. Easily accessible from the I-75 highway, the nearest major cities are Sarasota and Venice, which are approximately 20 miles west of the park.
The best time to visit Myakka State Park
If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the winter months when the weather is typically mild and pleasant. On the other hand, if you are interested in birding or wildflowers then the spring and fall seasons might be the best time to visit Myakka State Park. This is also when the wildlife is most evident.
Note: The summer months are very hot and humid, and because of the substantial alligator population there are no swimming areas inside the park to cool off.
The Best Things to do in Myakka State Park
From casual strolls along boardwalks with binoculars to paddling and bicycling, this park has something for every activity level and age.
1. Take a Scenic Boat Tour
Take a ride on a flat-bottomed boat around the Upper Myakka Lake to see wildlife up close and learn about the Myakka River State Park. You can buy tickets on the spot (no reservations are taken due to daily weather changes) and the tour lasts around 45 to 60 minutes. The seating is covered but not enclosed, so be prepared to be outside for that time (i.e. sunscreen!). And remember to bring your camera!
Current Myakka Boat Tour Prices:
- $20 for adults
- $12 for children ages 3 to 12
- Free for children 2 and under
2. Go For a Hike
The Myakka Trail includes 39 miles of loop trails maintained by the Florida Trail Association. Various backcountry roads cross the main trail which allows hikers to begin and end the trail at shorter intervals. Live oaks, palm hammocks, pine woods, dry prairies, wetlands and marshes are all identified along the diverse trails.
July 2023 update: The park is still cleaning up after a devastating hurricane season in 2022. Hurricane Ian in particular did major damage to the southern west coast of Florida, and there is evidence still of this destruction in the form of fallen trees and construction currently in sections of the park. Some trails may be closed or blocked until this is resolved.
3. Get a Bird's Eye View from the Canopy Walkway
Step onto the Myakka Canopy Walkway and experience life from a whole new perspective! As North America’s first public treetop trail, this structure was built in 2000 as a new way to connect with nature.
Suspended 25 feet above the ground, visitors have the opportunity to observe the lush hammock canopy as it extends 100 feet, and climb even higher to the soaring 74-foot tower for a breathtaking view of the surrounding wetlands, prairies, and tree hammocks. From this unique vantage point you’ll be able to spot majestic eagles, hawks, and vultures, as well as the tops of live oak and sabal palm trees.
Note: As of July 2023, due to hurricane damage the canopy walkway is being repaired. Stay tuned for opening dates!
4. Take a Day Trip to Venice Beach
Less than 30 minutes from the state park lies the glistening shores of the Gulf of Mexico, offering plenty of opportunities to relax on sandy beaches and soak up some sun. Whether you prefer the pristine shores of Siesta Key or the peace and quiet of Venice Beach, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your preference. Venturing to the Gulf is a fantastic way to make some unforgettable memories and creates the perfect excuse to take a day trip to the beach.
From Myakka, head out to the Venice Fishing Pier to find hidden treasures that wait to be discovered. With every step you could stumble upon precious shells and fossilized shark teeth that line this section of Florida’s west coast. The thrill of the hunt will keep you motivated and eager to see what you will find next. You never know what hidden gems you may discover!
5. Look for Wildlife
Myakka River State Park is most known for the plentiful alligators that call it home… there is an estimated 4,000 of these prehistoric creatures lurking in the dark waters of the Myakka River. The best place to spot an alligator in Myakka is off the bridge that overlooks a wide section of water right along the 7-mile scenic drive running through the park.
Note: These reptiles are among the largest in the world and deserve the caution warranted when nearing one – typically however if you don’t bother them, they won’t bother you. A heads up though, there is no swimming in the state park because of the abundance of gators. So if you are wanting to cool off in the warm Florida water head to the gulf coast beaches!
Another great gator viewing spot is via the Deep Hole Trail in the park. This lesser-known location requires a 4.4 mile round-trip trek so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and bring water and bug spray. Only 30 visitors are allowed per day and a permit is required. The permits are first-come first-served so it’s important to get to the ranger’s station early.
Also, the alligators are most likely to be active in the early and later parts of the day, not typically during the mid-afternoon heat. Don’t forget your camera or phone, and a telephoto lens is preferred. Be sure to maintain your distance so you don’t get too close to the wildlife!
Along with the alligators, Myakka State Park boasts an incredible variety of wildlife that never ceases to amaze visitors. An abundance of wild animals call this park home, from smaller furry mammals such as raccoons and bobcats to larger black bears and panthers, graceful deer and goofy armadillos. There’s always a chance to spot something exciting on your hike or nature stroll.
6. Enjoy a Florida Draft Beer
The Pink Gator Café located inside the park along the Upper Myakka Lake is a fantastic spot to grab a tasty lunch, dessert, or even a cold draft beer. The second-story balcony offers spectacular views of the lake and serves homemade entrees including alligator stew, seafood gumbo, and other sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. The café also offers local Florida craft beers from Tampa, Fort Pierce, and the Florida Keys on tap, which is rare for a state park!
7. Take Kayaks Out on the Water
Neighboring the café is the Myakka Outpost, where guests of the park can rent bicycles (single or tandem bikes), canoes, and kayaks. There is also a gift shop at the Outpost selling Florida souvenirs, and a camp store for any camping supplies you may need including ice and firewood.
Visitors can choose to rent single kayaks or canoes which can hold 3 adults (or 2 adults with 2 children). Alternatively, bring your own vessel and launch at the Outpost. The Myakka River is 66 miles long, with 14 of these miles flowing through the state park. Paddlers will see a myriad of wetland creatures including water birds, reptiles big and small, fish, and even the occasional manatee.
Another launching point is at the bridge located one mile into the park, which allows paddlers direct access to the Myakka River. This is a popular spot for anglers of all types to fish for tarpon, gar, largemouth bass, and tilapia. Fishing supplies can be found at the Outpost.
8. Go Camping in the State Park
The park features 90 campsites spread out over three campgrounds, each equipped with 20/30/50 amp electrical service and water. The only sites with sewer hook-ups are in Palmetto Ridge. Laundry facilities are available to all campers. The sites are large, some are shaded, and the entire park is clean and well-kept.
The Big Flats Campground is located near the Upper Myakka Lake by the Outpost. Old Prairie and Palmetto Ridge campgrounds are located near the State Road 72 park entrance. Bonus, pets are welcome in these three campgrounds!
Alternatively, stay the night in a historic log cabin! Built in the 1930’s, each of the palm log cabins includes a bathroom, shower, fully-equipped kitchen, and sleeps up to six guests. From the welcoming front porch to the inside fireplace, these cabins offer a bit of rustic charm to your stay in Myakka State Park.
Note: These cabins are meant to be a relaxing experience, so there is no wifi or television to be found.
9. Ride Along the Biking Trails
Myakka State Park offers seven miles of paved roads perfect for biking enthusiasts. Pedal through serene hammocks, past, grassy marshes, and along he stunning Upper Myakka Lake shoreline. For less traffic, head to the North Drive over the main drive to enjoy a tranquil ride.
Or if you’re feeling adventurous, head to the dirt roads in the backcountry north of State Road 72. Be aware that some of these roads are a bit more challenging with sand, mud, or even damage caused by feral pigs! Also, keep in mind that the roads may be flooded during the rainy summer months.
10. Look for Bigfoot
Rumors are that a “skunk ape” (AKA bigfoot or sasquatch) has been inhabiting the areas in and surrounding the state park! There have been multiple sightings and records of this foul-smelling cryptid dating back as far as when early Europeans settled in this region. Seminole and Miccosukee tribes even includes stories of a foul-smelling, powerful, secretive creature called Esti Capcaki, roughly translating to “Furry Tall Man” or “Hairy Giant”.
Apparently the skunk ape has been spotted all over the state of Florida as far south as the Florida Keys. More recently, this mysterious creature has been supposedly caught on film by visitors and has been featured on movies and shows including Animal Planet’s Finding Bigfoot. This “Florida Bigfoot” has become an unofficial mascot for the state and signifies the Florida wilderness.
11. Go Bird-Watching
Experience the park’s impressive bird population, with majestic animals inhabiting the park year-round. Guests can often spot bald eagles, ospreys, anhingas, ibises, sandhill cranes, and herons. During winter, migratory birds such as white pelicans and roseate spoonbills will appear.
Walk along the bird boardwalk and enjoy the peaceful and expansive view of the surrounding marshes, wetlands, and waterways. Recently reopened following hurricane damage, the “birdwalk” takes you closer to the Myakka River so you can easily spot the birds and other wildlife.
There are so many fun, unique, and adventurous things to do in Myakka River State Park. We spent the weekend camping, relaxing, hiking, and even got a beach trip in. This state park is one of Florida’s natural wonders and truly embodies the “Old Florida” experience!
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Happy Travels!
can we do jeep ride tour in the park
The park offers guided boat tours, and you can drive through the park yourself but there is not an actual guided tour. There are several nice scenic drives through the park. Myakka also has ATV trails and guided E-bike tours.