Myakka River State Park, Florida, United States

4Greg2hike 5:00 PM Feb 15, 2023

Alligators, spoonbills, herons, oh my!
Wonderful little state park with lots of alligators and birds. We visit whenever we get close to Sarasota for a view of the river and lake and a hike or two. This trip, we saw 25 alligators sunning at the southwest side of Upper Myakka Lake with a couple dozen roseate spoonbill cranes and multiple other birds. Close to the northern bird walk, we saw ten huge white pelicans. Close to the northern backcountry trailhead, we saw two sandhill cranes close to a marsh accompanied by a whooping crane! And as always, the bridge toward the ranger station was good for viewing another six alligators, two wood storks, a dozen wild turkeys, ibis, egret and herons, all at the same time. The hiking trails are somewhat unadventurous as most in central Florida, but a good way to stretch the legs. All quite a bargain for $6 a carload.

4Elfma 5:00 PM Feb 7, 2023

Best Birding
As of Feb '23 the park is still recovering from the aftermath of the hurricane, but still a spectacular place to visit. The Birdwalk boardwalk and platform is inaccessible but the view from the adjacent field is breathtaking. Boat tour was not running, but trolley tours were available. Bike rentals were available. Restrooms were available. Gift shop is open, food concession is serviced by a mobile truck (and very pricey). Many picnic tables available. Fun to watch the gators sunbathing. Even midday birding yielded a list of 30 species without too much effort ..limpkins,white ibis, roseate spoonbills, white pelicans, black skimmers and on and on. Really magical.