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Exploring Myakka River State Park

Posted by Best Western Siesta Key onSeptember 21, 2021 in Dog Parks, Fishing, Kayaking, Marine Wildlife, Relaxation, Things To Do.

Vacationers who are looking for even more of an escape from their busy daily lives can find peacefulness under the palm and oak trees in Myakka River State Park. The 58 square-mile park proves to be one of the largest and oldest state parks in the sunshine state. As you look to the sky you can catch a glimpse and hear the calls of over 100 bird species, including limpkins and ospreys. Spotted in the Myakka River or on land sunny themselves or scouting out a shady area is a variety of wildlife including alligators, turtles, and otters. From biking and hiking to kayaking and fishing, your friends here at Best Western Siesta Key are diving into some of the fun and popular activities to enjoy in Myakka River State Park. 

Things to Do in Myakka River State Park 

Bird Watching 

Songbirds, migrating birds, ducks, and wading birds only scratch the surface of the numerous types and varieties of birds found in Myakka River State Park. It’s no wonder why this is one of the best locations in Sarasota for bird watching. Before you begin, stop by the ranger’s station to pick up the full list of birds and butterflies you can spot soaring and chirping over the park. In the late fall through early spring, you can even chat with a bird naturalist over at the Birdwalk. 

Fishing

For those with a Florida fishing license, check out some favorite local fishing spots at Upper Myakka Lake and around the Myakka River. Specifically behind the Log Pavilion, South Pavilion, and near the Clay Gully Pavilion, you can have a successful catch. Many people find themselves reeling in largemouth bass, red drum, and common snook. 

Biking

Seven miles of paved road runs through fantastic hammocks and breathtaking grassy marshes along Upper Myakka Lake creating a perfect biking trail. Biking through Myakka River State Park is truly a thrilling way to take in all of nature’s beauty. Although the backcountry roads and Myakka Island Trail are bikeable, you may find them grassy, sandy, muddy, or flooded during the summer months. 

Hiking

The Myakka River State Park is also home to a 38.9-mile hiking loop. Instead of backtracking, hikers who may prefer a shorter loop can opt for one of the roads that crisscross the trail. Hike among live oaks, palms, hammocks, pine flat woods, dry prairies, and marshes, and let’s not forget about the wonderfully inspiring Canopy Walk. This is sure to be one of the most peaceful hikes through nature you can experience, especially in late fall, winter, and early spring. Be sure to always carry water and be prepared for interactions with insects and in the summer, possibly overgrown or flooded paths. 

Boating 

The Myakka River flows 66 miles long, beginning in northeast Manatee County and concluding in Charlotte Harbor, with 14 miles flowing through Myakka River State Park and its two shallow lakes. Along the river, you are sure to spot kayaks, canoes, fishermen, and wildlife observers spying birds and wetland creatures. Please note that kayaking and canoeing south of State Road 72 requires a permit from the Myakka ranger station. You can bring your own kayaks and boats or easily rent from the outpost in the park. 

Can You Bring Dogs To Myakka River State Park? 

Yes! Pets are welcome to enjoy the sites and activities of Myakka State Park with their families, however, it is important that owners and furry friends are respectful and follow the park’s pet rules. Although pets are allowed into the park, they are not allowed to enter buildings, such as bathrooms and cabins, nor are they allowed on structures such as the Canopy Walkway. To ensure your pet’s safety, please keep them on a leash at all times, avoid the water, and refrain from tying them to trees, tables, etc. even if you are present. 

Myakka River State Park is over 365 days per year from 8 AM through sunset. Enjoy the change of scenery as you take a break from the beaches of Siesta Key to experience these pinelands, wild wetlands, and wildflower-covered prairies. Pack a picnic, bring your fishing gear, boats, and bikes, and even your four-legged friends. Plan a memorable and exciting family activity that everyone is sure to love. It can be one of our favorites from above or a unique idea like horseback riding or geo-seeking! However you choose to enjoy Myakka River State Park, be sure to let your friends at Best Western Siesta Key know how your day was.