One of the oldest and largest state parks, Myakka protects one of the state´s most diverse natural areas. The Myakka River, designated as a Florida Wild and Scenic River, flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing from a boardwalk that stretches out over the Upper Myakka Lake, then take to the treetops with a stroll along the canopy walkway.

The park´s river and two lakes provide ample opportunities for boating, freshwater fishing, canoeing, and kayaking; a boat ramp provides access to Upper Myakka Lake. Hikers can explore trails that cross large expanses of rare Florida dry prairie. Scenic lake tours are offered daily on the world´s two largest airboats. Safari tram tours of the park´s backcountry are offered from mid-December through May.

Full-facility campgrounds and primitive campsites are available. Five palm log cabins, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, have been modernized for comfortable lodging. The park features two campgrounds with 76 campsites. Each site is equipped with 50 amp electrical service, water, a fire ring and picnic table All campsites are located within 40 yards of restroom facilities with hot showers.

All sites are dirt based and they do not have vegetation buffers. The Big Flats campground is located near the dock where tours are available on the world's largest airboats. The Tram Station, a fishing deck and a concession are also nearby. Located nine miles east of Sarasota on State Road 72.

Information Provided by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.