myakka wildlife tours tours

• Camping & Lodging

Wildlife Tours

Wildlife Tour Provider

• Contact number: 941-923-0220
• [email protected]
• Ticket booth open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Boat tours run every day, weather permitting.
• 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

On busy days, boats will run every hour, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• The tram runs every day, weather permitting.
• 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

High water levels may prohibit tram tours, especially during summer.

Cost  

• Cash and credit/debit cards (except for American Express) are accepted.
• There is a 10% discount for military (full-term service or current) and first responders (law enforcement, fire, EMS) with photo ID - single ticket only.

General Information

• Tours last about 45-60 minutes.
• Tours are first-come, first-served only.
• No reservations are taken on the phone or online.
• Tours are ADA-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
• They are weather dependent, and they will not run within 30 minutes of thunder/lightning. 
• Minimum size for a group is 25 people.
• All groups should call 941-923-0220 to make arrangements.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

Myakka River State Park Guide — Canopy Walkway, Tours, and More

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

762 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3075 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Where Is Myakka River State Park?

Myakka river state park opening hours and seasons, nearest airports to myakka river state park, driving to myakka river state park, taking the train to myakka river state park, taking the bus to myakka river state park, getting around myakka river state park, canopy walkway, historic sites, horseback riding, visitor center, wildlife viewing, best time to visit myakka river state park for ideal weather, best time to visit myakka river state park to avoid the crowds, best time to visit myakka river state park for wildlife, cheapest time to visit myakka river state park, annual events in myakka river state park, inside the park, towns near myakka river state park, pink gator cafe, siegfried’s restaurant, myakka river state park facts, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Myakka River State Park is a unique natural wonder that features Florida’s first state-designated “Wild and Scenic River.” The park offers diverse landscapes, including prairies, wetlands, and pinelands. You can explore this ecosystem’s natural and cultural history, hike, fish, take boat tours, and enjoy wildlife viewing.

With over 300,000 visitors each year, this park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Florida’s natural wonders.

How To Get to Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park is situated in both Sarasota and Manatee counties. It is a vast area stretching over 37,000 acres. The park is 9 miles east of Interstate 75, making it easily accessible for visitors. 

This park is an amazing destination that remains open throughout the year, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to explore and appreciate its natural beauty, regardless of the season. The park operates from 8 a.m. until sunset, so you can plan your visit accordingly and maximize your time here.

If you intend to take part in a boat tour, keep in mind that the concessionaires have different hours from the park.

The most convenient airport for reaching Myakka River State Park is Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), around 30 minutes away.

This airport provides numerous nonstop flights to various destinations, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, New York City, and Toronto. Many well-known airlines offer services at this airport, such as Air Canada, Allegiant, American, Breeze, JetBlue, Southwest, and Sun Country.

Travelers can enjoy the airport’s convenient location, shorter check-in lines, spacious terminal, and a wide range of services.

To reach the breathtaking Myakka River State Park, you can take the main route, I-75. Once you’re on the highway, take exit 205 and then drive 9 miles towards the east on SR 72 . Keep an eye out for the park entrance on the left-hand side of the road. 

There is no train service to Myakka River State Park.

No bus goes directly to this park, but you can take a Greyhound bus to Sarasota . From the station, it’s approximately a 25-minute drive to the park. You can easily organize a ride-sharing service or rent a car from here to get to the park.

There are multiple ways to explore Myakka River State Park. You can drive along the park road, which offers various spots to park and enjoy the scenic views. Another option is to paddle through the park’s waterways. You can also opt for hiking along the numerous trails that meander through the park.

What To See and Do in Myakka River State Park

This park offers a vast array of activities for visitors to indulge in. The park is a nature lover’s paradise, from hiking and biking to kayaking and wildlife spotting. You can also take an airboat ride, go fishing, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

This state park is a paradise for biking enthusiasts . With 7 miles of winding paved roads, the park offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty of the region’s natural wonders. You’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of shady hammocks, luscious greenery, and the sparkling waters of Upper Myakka Lake. 

You can bring your bike or rent one from a nearby concessionaire, but be sure to pack a helmet, as they are required by Florida law. 

This park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise, boasting an awe-inspiring variety of wading birds, songbirds, raptors, ducks, and migratory birds that make their home here at different times of the year.

This park is a birder’s dream come true, from the majestic bald eagle to the pink roseate spoonbills. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced birdwatcher, you’ll be captivated by the unique sights and sounds of this incredible sanctuary.

Be sure to explore the Wings Over Florida program during your visit, which allows visitors to discover the park’s diverse bird species through self-guided tours and informative bird lists. If you’re lucky enough to be here between November and mid-April, you can meet with a bird naturalist at the Birdwalk most days of the week to learn even more about the fascinating world of birds.

The park offers visitors a chance to take a boat tour around Upper Myakka Lake aboard flat-bottomed vessels, with an opportunity to witness the wildlife up close and appreciate the park’s rich history.

These tours occur daily, with departures scheduled every 2 hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with no prior reservations required. Each tour has a duration of 45 to 60 minutes.

The serene waters of Upper Myakka Lake serve as a habitat for a variety of species, including alligators, turtles, and various bird species. Knowledgeable tour guides provide a wealth of information on the park’s natural environment and history, allowing visitors to engage with the tour on a deeper level.

This tour provides a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Upper Myakka Lake, with ample time to capture stunning photographs and admire the breathtaking scenery.

The Canopy Walkway is an incredible experience for those who visit Myakka River State Park. This attraction not only offers a chance to explore the treetops but also provides a unique opportunity to observe the wildlife that lives in the canopy. The walkway is an outdoor laboratory that serves both research and educational purposes.

The walkway is suspended 25 feet above the ground and extends for 100 feet through the hammock canopy. Visitors can easily explore the treetops and observe the canopy inhabitants up close. Moreover, the walkway provides a great vantage point for birdwatching and photography.

In addition to the walkway, there is a 74-foot tower that provides a panoramic view of the park. This tower is an absolute must-visit attraction for tourists, as it offers an unmatched view of the treetops, wetlands, prairies, and hammocks. Visitors can see the park’s natural beauty in all its glory from the top of the tower.

Canopy Walkway is an attraction you won’t want to miss during your visit. The walkway and tower are truly unique and offer a fascinating glimpse into the park’s beauty.

The park is a great destination for fishing enthusiasts with a Florida freshwater fishing license . Visitors are permitted to fish in both Upper Myakka Lake and the Myakka River. The park offers a variety of excellent fishing spots, including the South Pavilion, Log Pavilion, and Clay Gully Pavilion. Fishing from the bridge is also allowed for those looking for a unique experience, but it’s important to exercise caution due to traffic conditions.

The fish species you can catch in the park are diverse and abundant. Some of the most common catches include largemouth bass, tilapia, tarpon, gar, and several types of panfish. Myakka River State Park is the perfect place to cast your line and reel in some of the best catches.

Nestled within the park’s lush greenery lies the Myakka Trail , a 39-mile hiking loop trail that is sure to take your breath away. The trail offers diverse terrain, including wetlands, prairies, and dense forests, providing hikers with an exhilarating adventure through the park’s natural wonders. 

The Myakka Trail is well-marked and maintained, making it accessible to hikers of all levels. Along the way, hikers can take in stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, spot wildlife such as alligators and deer, and even catch a glimpse of the park’s famed Canopy Walkway. 

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, the Myakka Trail is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the park. Pack your hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and get ready to experience the beauty of the Myakka Trail.

The Myakka River Valley was developed into a park by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. Today, visitors can explore several sites within the park, such as the visitor center, South Pavilion, Log Pavilion, boat basin, weir, and 5 cabins. These sites offer a variety of activities, including picnicking, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Myakka River State Park boasts a vast network of trails, and 12 of these trails, totaling 15 miles, are specifically designated for horses , providing riders with a unique opportunity to explore the park’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or a beginner, the park’s horse trails offer a thrilling adventure for all skill levels.

This park is an idyllic destination for visitors who cherish the tranquility of paddling. The Myakka River and 2 picturesque lakes within the park’s boundaries offer an awe-inspiring backdrop and an array of aquatic activities , including canoeing and kayaking. Whether you are an experienced paddler or a novice seeking an adventure, there are countless opportunities to paddle through this park.

The Myakka River State Park’s visitor center is the perfect starting point to embark on your adventures. The Civilian Conservation Corps originally built this facility and offers interactive displays about the park’s flora, fauna, and resources. During the busy season, a knowledgeable volunteer is on hand to help you plan your day.

The visitor center also provides a fun activity for children called the Visitor Center Scavenger Hunt. It will inspire and educate them about Florida’s wildlife. 

Spread across an expansive 58 square miles of natural terrain, the park is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife thriving in their natural habitat. The park boasts stunning vistas of untamed beauty, with lush greenery, pristine waterways, and captivating wildlife sightings.

From the formidable alligators sunbathing by the water to the elusive bobcats stalking their prey, the playful otters frolicking in the water, and the melodious tunes of over 100 bird species filling the air, the park is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors and marvel at the stunning beauty of the natural world.

Best Times To Visit Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park is a fantastic destination that you can visit any time of the year. However, some seasons may offer better experiences than others, depending on what you’re looking for.

When planning a trip, it’s always a good idea to research the weather of your destination since it can greatly impact your experience. The best time to come for ideal weather is November. During this month, there are usually only a few days of precipitation, and the temperatures range from the low 60s to the upper 70s, making it a pleasant time to visit.

Many visitors are interested in visiting Myakka River State Park when the number of tourists is low. September is the best time of the year to visit the park and avoid large crowds. During this month, you can explore the park at your own pace without dealing with long queues, traffic, and crowds.

January is the perfect time to visit Myakka River State Park for an unforgettable wildlife experience. The park offers an array of exciting activities, from hiking to picnicking, but what sets it apart is the chance to witness the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. During this month, the water levels are lower than usual, which creates the perfect opportunity to observe the fish in the lake up close.

Saving money while traveling may seem daunting, but it is possible with proper planning and research. One of the best ways to save money while visiting a park is to plan your trip in early September. During this time, flight rates and accommodations in nearby towns are at their lowest, making it an ideal time to travel.

Visitors can save hundreds of dollars on travel expenses by visiting in early September.

Myakka River State Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The park organizes some of these events, while others are hosted by nonprofit organizations that collaborate with the park.

Cache Myakka Funcoast Bash

The Cache Myakka! Funcoast Bash is an annual event that takes place every February. The Friends of Myakka River organizes it, and it is a day of geocaching fun.

The night before the event, 200 caches are released for participants to find. Additionally, there is a poker run consisting of 7 caches and a per-chance drawing where participants can win geocaching supplies, tools, and swag.

This event is suitable for people with different levels of experience, including beginners who can join the game with a Geo Buddy and learn the ropes of geocaching. Free snacks, fun games, and prizes are provided to make the event more enjoyable.

First Day Hike

The First Day Hike is an invigorating annual event that takes place on January 1. It is a unique opportunity for visitors to join a knowledgeable park ranger on a guided hike around the park. During the hike, participants will learn about the park’s natural and cultural history and discover hidden gems they may have overlooked. 

This exciting event is an excellent way to start the new year and stay active. The guided hike provides a great workout, while the stunning scenery and fresh air offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Don’t miss this chance to kick off the new year with a memorable adventure in the great outdoors.

Where To Stay in Myakka River State Park

Determining where you will stay during a trip is the first order of business when planning a vacation. Thanks to the incredible location of Myakka River State Park, there are plenty of options for accommodations both in and near the park.

Multiple accommodation options are available for those who wish to stay within the park’s boundaries during their visit. You can choose from historic cabins or any of the 3 campgrounds.

There are 5 cabins available at Myakka River State Park, constructed between 1934 and 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Each log cabin features a fully equipped kitchen, a full bathroom, and a large common room. The porch and fireplace add a cozy touch to your stay. These cabins can accommodate up to 6 guests.

No televisions, phones, or Wi-Fi are available, providing a primitive atmosphere. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.

There are 3 beautiful campgrounds at this state park, offering a total of 90 spacious and well-maintained campsites. Each campsite is equipped with essential amenities like electric and water connections and a fire ring and picnic table for your convenience.

After a day of exploring the park’s natural wonders, you can unwind and freshen up in one of the nearby restrooms, which boast hot showers and clean facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, Myakka River State Park’s campgrounds have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

You’ll be pleased to know that many accommodation options are available in the nearby popular towns. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious resort, you’ll find a range of accommodation choices that cater to every taste and budget.

Fruitville, Florida

Fruitville is a charming town that is a mere 14 miles from Myakka River State Park. Fruitville is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a convenient and comfortable home base close to the park. 

The town boasts a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts, where you can relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. The town also has a diverse selection of restaurants catering to all tastes, serving everything from juicy steaks to fresh seafood.

Fruitville’s location is perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, with numerous parks, beaches, and museums within easy reach.

Sarasota Springs, Florida

Sarasota Springs is a picturesque town with an excellent location for visitors exploring Myakka River State Park. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, a wide array of accommodation options are available to suit your needs and budget. From cozy Airbnbs to luxurious hotels and budget-friendly motels, the town has something to offer for everyone.

One of the highlights of this town is its diverse and delightful restaurant scene. You’ll find a plethora of options ranging from casual bars and grills to cozy cafes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, delicious barbecue, or exotic international cuisine, you’ll find it all here.

Aside from its fantastic dining scene, Sarasota Springs offers plenty of recreational activities to entertain you. You can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting one of the many museums in the area or exploring the beautiful parks and beaches nearby. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful town.

Where To Eat in Myakka River State Park

There is only 1 place to eat within the park’s boundaries, but you will find numerous dining options just a short distance away. When you feel hungry during your park visit, you can easily find the food of your choice just down the road.

Pink Gator Cafe is the sole eatery situated within the boundaries of Myakka River State Park. It offers lunch, dessert, craft beer, and breathtaking views of Upper Myakka Lake.

The cafe’s menu includes sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, wraps, jalapeno poppers, and onion rings. The Pink Gator Cafe is an ideal spot to recharge after your park expeditions and continue your explorations.

Siegfried’s Restaurant is a highly rated 5-star eatery in Sarasota, just a short 18-mile drive from the park. The restaurant is known for its authentic German cuisine that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The restaurant also boasts a fantastic biergarten where you can enjoy your meals and drinks alfresco. 

The menu at Siegfried’s is impressive, with a variety of dishes that will satisfy any appetite. Siegfried’s Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal after a long day exploring the beautiful Myakka River State Park.

1. A New State Park Established

The official dedication ceremony for this park took place in 1941, marking its opening to the public.

2. The One and Only

The Myakka River is the only river in Florida with a “Wild and Scenic River” designation, ensuring preservation for future generations.

3. A Woman with a Plan

Bertha Palmer was a pioneering businesswoman from Chicago. In 1910, she came to Sarasota and purchased a large area of land. She intended to try her hand at cattle and swine ranching. She named her ranch Meadow Sweet Pastures, and it was situated near the Myakka River. Bertha Palmer introduced fencing and dip vats to Florida ranching, making it more efficient.

4. What’s in a Name?

A Seminole Indian supposedly told a surveyor in the 1850s that the river was called Myakka. The word Myakka has no known translation.

5. Deep Hole

Deep Hole is at the southern end of Myakka Lake, a 140-foot sinkhole known for its alligator sightings and popularity among anglers.

Myakka State Park is a stunning natural wonderland that offers a range of activities such as bird watching, hiking, kayaking, and nature walks. Visitors can enjoy observing the diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitats, including alligators, snakes, and various bird species. Book your trip today and explore what Myakka State Park offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit myakka river state park.

The vehicle entry fee is $6 for 2 to 8 guests. Cyclists and individuals pay $2 to $4.

How much time should I plan to visit Myakka River State Park?

Exploring this state park thoroughly requires at least a full day.

Will I see manatees at Myakka River State Park?

When you visit this state park, there is a small possibility that you may come across manatees.

Can I swim at Myakka River State Park?

Swimming is prohibited in all bodies of water within this state park.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

Myakka Wildlife Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Myakka Wildlife Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Myakka Wildlife Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Myakka Wildlife Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Myakka Wildlife Tours

Myakka River State Park

One of the oldest and largest Florida State Parks, Myakka River State Park offers a wide variety of activities and experiences that are sure to be an adventure. Just south of Tampa in Sarasota, this surprisingly wild park is just miles away from some of Florida’s best beaches. Alligators, birds, deer, otter, and more can be seen at the park.

Activities at Myakka River State Park

Canopy walk and observation tower.

The Canopy Walk is one of the most unique features of Myakka River, and the reason why many visitors come to the park. The Canopy Walk is a suspension bridge about 25 feet up in the air. Although it’s fairly short, it’s so fun to walk. You only walk across one-way, and sometimes there is a short line of people waiting to walk across. The 76 foot observation tower is connected to the Canopy Walk, so you can continue on up the steps to the top. You’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding prairie and the tree tops. The tower does shake a little in the wind!

The Canopy Walk and Observation is just a short walk from parking area. The parking area is fairly close to the park entrance, past the bridge, on the right hand side. You are able to park on the side of the road if the spots are full.

Note that both the Canopy Walkway and Observation Tower require climbing up many stairs. If your anyone in your group can’t or doesn’t want to climb up, there are several benches at the bottom with informational signs about the flora and fauna of the park.

There are many, many miles of hiking trails at Myakka totaling well over 40 miles. Hike by the Myakka River and observe huge alligators sunning on the banks. Wind through wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. This park is great for backpacking and primitive camping because there are so many miles trails and several primitive camping sites.

Deep Hole Hike

Deep Hole is a sink hole that is filled with alligators. It’s not really known why they congregate here, but on a good day, you’ll see dozens of giant gators. The Deep Hole Trail is restricted and you’ll have to obtain a permit from the rangers station to hike it. Only 30 permits are given out each day on a first-come-first-serve basis, so you’ll need to get there early.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katie (@photography_by_katieson)

Tram & Boat Tours

If you’d prefer not to hike around the park, Myakka also offers tram and boat tours for an additional fee.

Tram: Learn about wildlife and history of the area on the 40- to 60-minute tram tour. Tours run daily at various times. Tickets are first-come-first-serve. Ticket prices: adults, $20; ages 3-6, $12

Boat: Take a 45- to 60-minute covered pontoon boat tour of the upper Myakka Lake. Tours run daily at various times. No reservations, tickets are sold first-come-first-serve. Ticket prices: adults, $20; ages 3-6, $12

Paddling & Rentals

14 miles of the Florida Wild and Scenic Myakka River flow through the park. You can bring your own vessel or rent from the park . Rentals are on a first-come-first-serve basis. Canoes and single kayaks are available. Note that water levels change depending on the season and paddlers should check weather conditions before heading out.

Gift Shop & Concessions

Enjoy lunch, snacks, dessert, or craft beer at Pink Gator Cafe! We enjoyed a post hike ice cream sundae. There’s also a gift shop with lots of souvenirs.

Other Activities

Biking: bikes are permitted on the 7 miles of paved main roads of the park and a few unpaved trails. Grab a map from the ranger station. You can also rent bikes from the park.

Camping: the park features a large campground with 90 sites. And there are CCC-era cabins available for rent. There are also several primitive campsites throughout the park. Youth/group sites are also available.

Horseback riding: there are up to 15 miles of horseback riding trails at Myakka River. The ranger station will provide gate code access to the horse trails.

Birding: With the variety of habitats and large acreage, Myakka is a great place to see birds of all kinds. We saw roseate spoonbill, limpkin, blue heron, wood stork, and many more. A great place to look is the canal right outside the concession shop where the boat tour departs. You can also walk on the Birdwalk, which is a boardwalk out into the wetlands where you’ll have a great chance to see birds and other wildlife.

Fishing: fishing is permitted in the park for those with a fresh water fishing license. There is no designated fishing pier, but fishing is welcome on both the Myakka River and Upper Myakka Lake.

Boating: there is a boat ramp near the concessions area. There are no motor size restrictions, but varying water levels may prevent some motors from operating.

Shop My State Park Must Haves

This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you.

Myakka River State Park Info

Address: 13208 State Road 72, Sarasota FL 34241

Hours: 8 AM – Sunset, 365 days a year

Admission: $6 per vehicle

You might also like:

Best State Parks to Visit in West Central Florida

10 Fun Things to do Around Sarasota

45 Free & Cheap Things to do in Tampa Bay

The information in this post was accurate at the time of publishing to the best of the author’s knowledge. If you are planning to visit Myakka River State Park I recommend checking the most up-to-date information on their website .

Share this:

Related posts, alafia river state park.

Terra Ceia Preserve State Park

10 Fun Things to Do Around Sarasota, Florida

6 thoughts on “Myakka River State Park”

It’s awesome

It’s one of my favorite parks! There is so much to do at Myakka!

How are the ticks?

There were none during my visit in January, but that’s not really tick season. I can imagine there could be some during summer/fall though

Pingback: 10 Fun Things to Do Around Sarasota, Florida - Florida Lives

Pingback: 10 Places to Visit This Summer Near Tampa, FL - Florida Lives

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Myakka Wildlife Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

MYAKKA WILDLIFE TOURS (Sarasota) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Lucy Tobias

Travel, gardens and environment in florida and beyond, myakka river state park has a airboat tour – all aboard.

Don’t let a little mystery keep you from going to Myakka River State Park and  taking a Myakka Wildlife Airboat Tour aboard one of the world’s largest covered airboats.

The mystery? Prior to the 1850’s English maps called the river the Asternal River. Then a Seminole Indian told a surveyor the river’s name was “Myakka”. The name was changed. But no one can figure out how to translate the word “Myakka”. Who knows what it means?

This mystery hardly matters to the steady stream of people eager to take a tram or airboat tour, or both. The first task: search for a parking place near the Tram & Airboat Ticket Booth inside Myakka River State Park near Sarasota.

Airboat Tours at Myakka River State Park fill up fast

Winter airboat tour schedule (Dec. 16-May 3) has boats departing at 10 a.m. 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Arrive 30 minutes ahead of time to, hopefully, be assured of a seat. Ticket sales stop five minutes before departure. Cost is $14 plus tax for an adult $7 plus tax for children ages 6-12. Children under the age of five admitted free in adult’s lap.

In the summer months, airboat rides leave at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Hurricane season is June 1 through Nov. 30 so it is always a good idea to call ahead and see if the weather makes this trip a “go” or “no go”.  Call 941-365-0100  

Be advised the ticket booth is three miles inside the park entrance. After paying the park fee it might seem going three miles on Park Drive will go by quickly. Not so, especially on weekends. A slow speed limit and several congested areas – the Canopy Walkway area and a bridge with sightseers and fishermen on both sides – means reduced driving.

Toss in bicycles on the road and walkers along the sides – you get the message – start out early to arrive on time for a tour.

The two airboats are named “Myakka Maiden” and “Gator Gal.” Ours on a recent Saturday morning was “Gator Gal.”

Myakka Wildlife Airboat Ride surprisingly quiet

I have to confess to being surprised they didn’t hand out earmuffs or earplugs. My only previous airboat ride was in the Everglades aboard a much smaller, uncovered boat with a huge motor on the back that roared at top volume. As we skimmed over the water flocks of birds rose up out of the grass in protest. Alligators slithered down the banks and disappeared into the mud. Truly we were alien invaders.

Not so on this airboat. It is positively quiet. You can hear the guide/captain speaking. No earmuffs needed. The airboat journey goes across the Upper Myakka Lake to see a whole lot of alligators along the shore and then comes back again. Takes about an hour.

The scenery is postcard perfect and the narration outstanding (suggestion: do bring money to give the guide a tip at the end, he earns it).

See Alligators on Airboat Tour inside Myakka River State Park

Our guide smoothly says this is a shallow lake, sixteen inches to three feet deep at most. Why we could get out and walk back to shore. Some look over the side at the brown water with relief. If the boat tips over we’re fine, right?

But then he questions if you’d want to get into the water with anywhere from 500 to 1000 alligators who live here. Everyone sits up a little straighter. The boat starts looking pretty good and solid.

I learned more about alligators in one hour than I’ve ever known. Yes, we saw a lot of them both swimming and sunning along the shore. That plus who knew there was a wild hog problem – and a trapper paid to remove pigs, just to keep the population down?

Turns out centuries ago Spanish explorers arrived in ships that had hogs in the hold. They let them go and then did roundups twice a year. Needless to say, some pigs just kept on moving on and now wild hogs are part of the Florida landscape.

Combine being on the water with blue skies, puffy white clouds, balmy breeze, and a sweeping wild Florida shoreline – all that plus great story telling adds up to an awesome airboat tour.

And if you want to know more about walks in the park, here is a review of the park’s famous Canopy Walk by Randy Eady https://www.afar.com/places/myakka-river-state-park-sarasota

More Airboat Tours

Two I’ve taken that were outstanding:

Near DeLand: The Fountain of Youth Eco/History boat tour , leaves from inside De Leon Springs State Park , four times a day and goes through Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge .

Near Ocala: The glass-bottomed boat tour on the Silver River leaves inside Silver Springs State Park . Use the main entrance on Silver Springs Boulevard.

New Facebook Page

I invite you to “LIKE” my new Facebook page – Labyrinth of the week

Walk with me as I travel around Florida walking labyrinths for an upcoming book – and let’s share labyrinth stories!

More to Explore

Go Greek for a day (or two)

Mount Up – Horseback Riding in Florida

Making Mosaics in Barcelona, Spain

• ← Jack Kerouac Slept & Wrote in College Park, Florida
• Flutter with the Butterflies in Fort Myers →

Proxy Error

Reason: Error reading from remote server

Additionally, a 502 Bad Gateway error was encountered while trying to use an ErrorDocument to handle the request.

• TripAdvisor

• Testimonials
• Travel Tips

Moscow Metro

About Me in Short

My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

See you in Moscow!

• View full size
• Owner: Moscow Guide & Driver
• Date: June 3, 2012 06:12:00 am EDT
• File name: ALP-2012-0603-146-Entering-Moscow-Metro-Station-Komsomolskaya.jpg
• Tags: Russia , Moscow Metro , Komsomolskaya , Moscow Highlights , escalators , Moscow Famous Landmarks , underground palace , Moscow

GPS Location of the Photo

Google maps.

• GPS Map of this album
• GPS Map of Moscow Guide & Driver's pictures

Random image

At Sculptures on the artificial Neglinka River

My Dear client Victoria Moran from USA and little Kaitlyn adopted in Russia. The photo was taken near Manezhnaya square in Alexander Upper Garden where in 1996, it was built an artificial pond with fountains and sculptures to represent the bed of Neglinnaya (Neglinka) River.

Featured Tags

• 273 photos are tagged with architecture
• 199 photos are tagged with cathedrals
• 305 photos are tagged with churches
• 294 photos are tagged with Dear Clients
• 260 photos are tagged with lights
• 1875 photos are tagged with Moscow
• 306 photos are tagged with Moscow by Night
• 194 photos are tagged with Moscow cityscapes
• 264 photos are tagged with Moscow Kremlin
• 326 photos are tagged with night moscow
• 426 photos are tagged with Orthodox Churches
• 226 photos are tagged with Red Square
• 2538 photos are tagged with Russia
• 209 photos are tagged with twilights
• 350 photos are tagged with Winter

Take one of these exciting tours:

• Moscow Highlights
• Discovering the Golden Ring of Russia
• Arts & Culture Tours
• Moscow by Night tour