4.8 / 5
Moderate
Full Day
Fall & Winter
Amenities & Activities
Fun Facts
At 58 square miles, Myakka River State Park is one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks.
The park's Canopy Walkway is one of the longest and highest treetop walks in the US, at 100 feet long and 25 feet above the ground.
The Myakka River is one of Florida's two state-designated Wild and Scenic Rivers.
Over 1,000 alligators call the park home — the concentration at Upper Myakka Lake in winter is one of Florida's most extraordinary wildlife spectacles.
The park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s — several original CCC structures are still in use.
Seasonal Events
Alligator Congregation
Hundreds of alligators congregate at Upper Myakka Lake as water levels drop in dry season — one of Florida's most dramatic wildlife events.
Sandhill Crane Migration
Large flocks of sandhill cranes winter in the park's wet prairies and are easily spotted from park roads.
Wildlife
One of the best places in Florida to see American alligators in the wild — hundreds congregate at Upper Myakka Lake in winter. Home to sandhill cranes, Florida scrub-jays, snail kites, roseate spoonbills, river otters, Florida black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Over 270 bird species recorded.
Visitor Tips
The Upper Myakka Lake in winter is one of Florida's most spectacular wildlife scenes — hundreds of alligators in one place. The treetop Canopy Walkway offers a bird's-eye view of the floodplain. Rent a kayak or join the airboat tour to get out on the lake. Book campsites well in advance for winter weekends.
Safety Notes
Maintain a safe distance from alligators at all times — do not feed them. Venomous snakes (pygmy rattlesnake, cottonmouth) are present; stay on trails. During summer, afternoon thunderstorms are frequent — seek shelter immediately. Bring insect repellent.