Parks and Recreation...The beaches, parks, trails, and recreation facilities are in demand.Sarasota County contains more than 200 parks, 109 athletic fields, 16 recreation and community centers, miles of soft, sandy beaches and more than 2000 acres of open space parkland!Facilities are available for private events and functions and are the meeting places for a variety of athletic, educational and recreational programs.Visit the link below for current activities, facility reservations, times and locations!
Oscar Scherer State Park...more than two square miles of preserved nature in a rapidly developing area. This state park provides resource-based recreation for over 130,000 visitors annually. A large acreage of scrubby flatwoods makes this park one of the best places to see Florida scrub-jays, a threatened species found only in Florida. The park protects scrubby and pine flatwoods that were once widespread throughout Sarasota County. Fifteen miles of trails through these beautiful natural areas provide opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and wildlife viewing. Wildlife viewing is great during the cooler months. When looking for animals, early and late in the day are the best times to be here and they can be seen in abundance. Canoeists and kayakers can paddle along South Creek, a blackwater stream that flows to the Gulf of Mexico. Canoe and kayak rentals are available in the park. Oscar Scherer State Park is open 365 days a year from 8am until sundown. Campers are welcome to stay overnight after completing the proper check-in steps.
Oscar Scherer State Park is located on U.S.41, six miles south of Sarasota. Heading south on I-75 take exit 200. Heading north on I-75 take exit 195.
Myakka River State Park...one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks. The "Florida Wild and Scenic Myakka River" flows through 57 square miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands. This beautiful setting and Florida's pleasurable climate makes Myakka a popular destination for hiking, fishing, camping, and canoeing wildlife observation. Enjoy the scenic airboat ride on the "Gator Gal" or rent a canoe and view nature up close and personal. The park is open everyday, 8:00 AM until Sunset. Enjoy your camping experience in your own tent, camper, or renting one of the log cabins. Campers are welcome to stay overnight after completing the proper check-in steps. Entrance fees are $5.00 per vehicle for 2 to 8 people and go towards maintaining this natural treasure. Be sure to walk the "Canopy Walkway," a nature walk through the treetops, 35 feet in the air.
The park is located 9 miles E of I-75 at 13208 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL USA 34241 E-mail: Biology@MyakkaRiver.org (941) 361-6511
Woodmere Paw Park...Fun for pups from dawn ‘til dusk! Located off of Jacaranda Blvd, this dog park has plenty of space for dogs of all sizes to run and play. A large fence runs around the play area with the entrance and exit double-gated for the pups' protection. Waste bags are provided for your convenience. Picnic tables and large shade trees are scattered throughout and it is a wonderful place to relax with a book or watch your furry friend play!
3951 Merewood Blvd, at Alligator Creek, off Woodmere
