Florida Guide > State Parks
Visiting Myakka.
Myakka State Park is situated in Sarasota on the S. R. 72. This park covers 58 square miles of natural prairie and encompasses The Myakka River.
This area was once occupied by the Seminole Indians and it was they who named the river Myakka. The lands were dotted with cattle. By 1900 it had become a ranch and The Parks Department purchased the lands from the ranch owners. You get a real feeling here of many centuries of times past.
The park was developed from 1934 in a joint initiative by the Civilian Conservation Corps and The State Parks department. It then opened to the public in 1942.
Here you can see many of the original buildings and enjoy boating, hiking, biking and fishing.
One of the best things to do is to take an air boat ride accessing some of the areas only negotiated in such a way. Afterwards you could catch a tram safari which reaches 7 miles into the back woods of the prairie.
The nature trail takes you through the tree tops to a tower which stands some 74 feet where the view is breathtaking. The park concession holders can rent you a canoe to explore the waterways.
Another great way to see the park is by cycle and you can rent one from $15 for 2 hours. You can also hire a quad bike which costs from $35 per hour.
THe Rangers hold an extensive programme of special events from ' Whats that bird? ' to ' An evening with Grammy' who serves you crackers and juice while telling her (sometimes) tall tales. If you have children with you these will prove to be especially popular.
This a great State Park which is sure to entertain you for a full day Do take sun screen, a sunhat and insect repellant during the hotter months.
Park Fees
Admission Fees $5. 00 per vehicle for up to 8 people.
Bus Tour Fee (less than 40 people; per person) $1. 00
Family / per vehicle (4 person maximum) $14. 00
Daily Concession Tours
Airboat & Tram Tours Adult $10. 00
Children 6 to 12 $5. 00 (Children 5 & under free in adult´s lap)
Daily Concession Rental Fees
Canoe rental: 0-2 hrs $15. 00; 2-4 hrs $25. 00; 4hrs c
Kayak rental: a half day $25. 00; Full day $50. 00
Bicycle rental: 0-2hrs $10. 00; 2-4hrs $20. 00;
Myakka River State Park
13208 S. R. 72
Sarasota, Florida 34241
Phone: 941-361-6511
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Visitor Service Provider
Myakka Outpost, Inc. 13207 State Road 72 Sarasota, FL 34241 (941) 923-1120
Visitor Service Provider
Myakka Wildlife Tours 10151 Sommers Road Sarasota, FL 34240 (941) 377-5797
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