Myakka is a staggering representation of the diverse ecosystems found throughout the state of Florida. Myakka is large conservation area in eastern Manatee and Sarasota counties. The Myakka River is the main artery that feeds the preservation. The river begins east of Bradenton, then flows southwest to Lake Myakka in Myakka River State Park southeast of Sarasota. It then turns south just to the east of Venice, winds through the Myakka State Forest, before spilling into Charlotte Harbor. It was also Florida’s first designated wild and scenic river.
Also referred to as the Myakka Island, the preservation ranges from lowland marshes to vast flat prairies covered with saw palmettos, oak hammocks and longleaf pines.
History
The Myakka River has been the life blood of this area for thousands of years. The river snakes it way southwest through the three counties toward Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. The river was first discovered along with the Peace River by Ponce De Leon. The Spanish explorer did not give either river their current name, but historical records indicate he made port in Charlotte Harbor during his first visit to Florida in search of gold and the legendary Fountain of Youth.
Some believe a spring near the City of North Port called Warm Mineral Springs might be the legend De Leon was searching for and that the Myakka River was the river that would have taken him to it. There is no evidence he ever visited the spring or even voyaged far enough up the river to have found it, but there is archaeological evidence ancient Paleo Indians buried their dead in the area of the spring some ten thousand years ago. Perhaps they believed the water had healing or rejuvenating powers and that’s how the legend began?
The term Myakka is believed to have come from the Seminole term Miarca which means big water. This should be no surprise! Those who live in southern Florida know the Myakka River is one of the first rivers to flood during periods of heavy rain.
Myakka River State Park
Probably the most popular place to access the river and explore the Myakka basin is Myakka River State Park off SR 72 near Sarasota. Think of the 37,000-acre park as a gateway from Central to South Florida. The Myakka River meanders southwest through the park. The real highlight is Lake Myakka on the northern boundary.
Deer is common all around the lake especially at dusk. A Bird walk extends well out into the lake where you are sure to see representations of both native and migrating birds depending on the time of year. The bird walk is very popular among professional photographers as well. Alligators can be spotted relaxing in the shallows, but also keep an eye to the sky. Bald Eagles often soar above the lake in search of an easy meal. Armadillo and wild pigs have scurried across the hiking trails right in front of me.
There are miles of these hiking trails throughout the park where you might encounter a busy armadillo or even a wild pig.39 miles of the Florida National Scenic Trail traverses the park. Rent a canoe or kayak from the Outpost. Take a boat or tram tour of the park. Grab a snack. There are plenty of picnic areas. Boating, fishing, horseback riding, and camping, Myakka River State Park has it all for the adventurer who dares to pay the $6.00 per vehicle entrance fee.
The one thing that is not recommend, however, is swimming. The park has a heavy population of alligators. Remember, always be alert around any body of fresh water in Florida. Obey signs that designate no fishing or swimming. They’re there for your safety. Above all, never feed the alligators. That’s for everyone else’s safety!
Myakka State Forest
For an experience without the crowds of the state park, head further south on I-75 to the Myakka State Forest near North Port. There is a parking lot off River Road where you can access two loop trails: the 6-mile north loop and 7.4-mile south loop. These are excellent easy hikes for introducing the kids to the hiking experience. Depending on your pace you can accomplish either loop in under three hours. The trails are wide, and the terrain is flat dominated by open prairie, saw palmettos and long leaf pine. The hum of the wind cutting through the palm prongs creates a sense of true isolation in the Myakka forest. Definitely wear a hat and sunscreen regardless of the time of year. With the terrain being so open, the trails are exposed to the elements. Both loops are part of the Florida Trailwalker Program.
Florida is known for slow-moving winding rivers that traverse the state connecting lakes and tributaries that all end up in either the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean. It all culminates the further south you go with the ultimate slow-moving river, the Florida Everglades. Myakka is where these two worlds meet. Life flourishes here whether it’s a prehistoric alligator or a tiny sparrow. People have thrived in Myakka for ten thousand years. In many areas the land remains the way it has been for centuries, a gateway to the watery wilderness of the Everglades. The big waters of Myakka play as big a role as any in the survival of such a treasured place. When the floods come, it’s just the voices of the past reminding us of that. It’s definitely worth the visit.
Visit the Myakka Island
Get Directions
Access the state park off FL-72 about 9 miles east of I-75. To get to the Myakka State Forest take I-75 to River Road near Englewood, then head south for about 9 miles. The entrance road is accross for the Myakka Pines Golf Club. There is a parking lot near both loop trail kiosks.
Snook Haven is perfect for a quick bite, good music and all-around good time just off I-75 near Venice right on the Myakka River!
