Camping at Myakka River State Park, Sarasota, FL

Savor wildflower covered prairies, wild wetlands and gorgeous pinelands
Join us for a fun-filled weekend of camping and adventurous activities at Myakka River State Park. Since everyone books their own reservations, you can choose the length of your stay. Several of us still work so we understand.

Book your reservation here: https://reserve.floridastateparks.org/Web/#!park/47

The majestic Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of one of Florida’s oldest and largest parks.

In a scene reminiscent of what early Native Americans and Spanish explorers witnessed, arching palm trees and live oaks are reflected on a winding tea-colored stream. The cries of limpkins and osprey pierce the air while alligators and turtles sun lazily on logs and riverbanks.

This is the Myakka River, Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river, and it flows through a vast expanse of unspoiled wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands that make up Myakka River State Park.

BIKING
Myakka offers bicyclists an opportunity to explore diverse Florida ecosystems. Seven miles of paved road wind through shady hammocks, along grassy marshes and the shore of the Upper Myakka Lake. The North Drive often has less traffic than the main drive. Bicycles are permitted on backcountry dirt roads north of State Road 72 and on the Myakka Island Trail to the Carlton Reserve. Some roads are hardpacked and grassed-over; others may be sandy, muddy or dug up by feral pigs. Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists.

HIKING TRAILS
The Myakka Trail includes a 38.9-mile hiking loop trail maintained by the Florida Trail Association. Backcountry roads crisscross the trail, allowing hikers to shorten or lengthen hiking trips. Discover shady live oak/palm hammocks, sandy pine flatwoods, sunny dry prairies, and marshes teeming with life.

Hiking at Myakka offers visitors relief from life's daily hassle and a chance to get away from it all. Late fall, winter and early spring are ideal hiking seasons. Always carry water, a map, and compass or GPS. Wear appropriate sturdy footwear. Maps are available at the ranger station.

EXPERIENCES
Bicycling, Birding, Boat Tours, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Paddling (Canoeing or Kayaking), Photography and Wildlife Viewing

SARASOTA, FL - WEATHER AVERAGES
DEC – 73° AVERAGE HIGH / 64° AVERAGE / 56° AVERAGE LOW

Jennifer: 561-703-1698 (Texting preferred)

This is a joint event with the Outsiders, a camping Meetup group. Check out other events at The Outsiders.