Down the Myakka River We Go

Map of Myakka River State Park
Photo Credit: Florida State Parks

One of the oldest and largest state parks, the Myakka River State Park is a breathtaking nature area that is the quintessential region of Florida's beautiful environment.  Just as gorgeous as the Sarasota beaches, the Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks and pinelands.  The park's river and two lakes offers gusts to participate in various water activities such as:

• canoeing
• kayaking
• boating (there is boat ramp to access the Upper Myakka Lake)
• freshwater fishing

Visitors can enjoy viewing wildlife and the water out on a boardwalk that extends over the Upper Myakka Lake, and then take a stroll along the canopy walk up high in the treetops. Hikers can also enjoy exploring trails that cross large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie.  

Visitors can take scenic lake tours on the world's two largest airboats.  From mid-December through May, safari tram tours of the park's back country are offered, and make sure to have your camera ready because you never know what Florida animals you may spot along the journey.  

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Panagopoulos, a Sarasota native

Full-facility campgrounds and primitive campsites are available for those who want to experience the the natural beauty of the park for more than just a day,  There are also five palm log cabins available to house in that have been modernized for comfort and durability for overnight guests.  

Guests can either visit Myakka River State Park for just the day or stay overnight on the property to experience day and night time activities and spot the stars, animals and life of the park. The park also allows visitors to partake in various outdoor activities on the water, in the treetops, or along the nature trails,  

For more information about the park and the activities, please visit: Myakka River State Park Website

How to get there: Driving Directions

What would you want to do at Myakka River State Park? Comment below with your answer. 

All About the Area

Sarasota is more than just a town where senior citizens retire and slow down.  It is an exciting city filled beach life, outdoor activities, art and performing events and shows, night life, and delicious cuisine offered at unique restaurants.  While all of those topics will be posted about later in detail, here are just a few facts about the basic aspects of Sarasota County that makes it a special place to be visiting.

• The average air temperature year round is 72.6 degrees Fahrenheit
• There are 35 miles of soft, white sand, and 13 public beaches to bury your toes into the warm sand

Siesta Key Beach

• There are 1,000 public, semi-private, and private golf courses in the area to score that hole-in-one while enjoying the nice weather outside
• 42.58% of the county area is water, so outdoor activities on a boat is a must
• The Myakka River offers 58 miles of water based hobbies such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing

Myakka River State Park

 

• According to the United States Census Bureau in 2014, the population in this county is 396,962 people
• This area has been ranked by Money Magazine as the best small city in the United States

Do these facts already interest you to come to Sarasota for a future vacation?  Well stay tuned for more information about this relaxing, fun, and one of a kind west Florida town.

Source: Fun Facts About Sunny Sarasota