Ever wished you could just disappear for a while? Perhaps you wished you were in a place where you could bask in the sight of crystal-clear waters, towering trees, and the sweet sound of nature.
Believe it or not, this paradise is closer than you think. Sarasota and Manatee counties hide some amazing state parks, right in our own backyard.
Here are the top options in our counties:
Myakka River State Park
The park’s story begins in the 1930s when local folks realized the Myakka River Valley was something special. They wanted to protect it, so they worked hard to create one of Florida’s first state parks.
With help from a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps, and some folks from the National Park Service, the park started to take shape between 1934 and 1941. They erected several structures and many of those old buildings are still there today.
The park finally opened its doors in 1942. There’s no swimming in the park because of the alligators. But don’t worry, there’s plenty to do. You can explore on two wheels, thanks to the bike trails. If you prefer water, there’s a boat ramp and a place to launch your canoe.
One thing you’ll definitely want to do is pack a picnic. Myakka has spots set aside just for that. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash. If you get hungry while you’re there, check out the Pink Gator Cafe. It’s inside the park and serves up some tasty treats, including alligator!
- Location: 13208 SR 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
- Fees: The admission fees range from $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 per single-occupant vehicle to $2 per pedestrian.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April.
Oscar Scherer State Park
The story of Oscar Scherer State Park starts with a woman named Elsa Scherer Burrows. She loved this land so much that when she died, she gave it to the state in memory of her dad, Oscar Scherer, known for his groundbreaking invention in 1872 (a process for dyeing leather).
One of the coolest things about Oscar Scherer is the birds. Bald eagles love to hang out there in the winter, and you might even see one soaring through the sky. But the real stars of the show are the Florida scrub jays.
These little birds are super rare, and this park is one of the few places where they can live safely. The park workers work really hard to make sure the scrub jays have a happy home by planting the right plants and even starting some controlled fires.
The park has everything you need to have a great time. There are places to eat, places to stay, and even a playground for the kids. You can bike, birdwatch, go boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and even horseback riding.
If you love the water, you can canoe, kayak, or go swimming. And when you’re tired from all the fun, you can relax with a picnic or just enjoy the peace and quiet.
- Location: 1843 S Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
- Fees: The entrance fees are $5 per car (covering up to eight people), $4 for a single driver, and $2 per pedestrian, cyclist, or extra passenger. If you arrive within an hour before sunset, the fee is $4 per car.
- Best Time to Visit: November to March.
Lake Manatee State Park
Lake Manatee State Park is centered around the serene Lake Manatee, which came into being in the mid-1960s when a dam was constructed across the Manatee River. This human-made lake was originally designed to provide drinking water to nearby communities.
For those who want to holiday in this park, there’s a 60-site campground, complete with water and 30-amp electricity at each site. The campground is within walking distance of the beach and fishing areas.
If you’re in the mood to do some hiking, you can explore the park’s 4.5 miles of trails, where you’ll wander through a variety of habitats, from flatwoods to marshes, and catch glimpses of Florida’s native wildlife. Make sure to stay on designated trails, carry plenty of water, and let someone know your hiking plans, as the park is quite remote.
- Location: 20007 FL-64, Bradenton, FL 34212
- Fees: Admission to the park costs $5 per vehicle for two to eight people, $4 for a single occupant, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, or extra passengers. Camping fees are $22 per night, plus tax, with an additional nonrefundable $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee for RVs, cabins, and other units
- Best Time to Visit: Any time of year!
Exploring the state parks in Sarasota and Manatee counties is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, watching wildlife, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic, these parks offer something for everyone. So, next time you’re looking for a local adventure, remember that paradise is just a short drive away.
