Myakka River State Park at a glance
Myakka River State Park is a large state park inland from Sarasota, where the Myakka River widens into lakes and marsh. The main entrance is at 13207 State Road 72. The park is open daily from 8:00 until sunset. The North Gate opens only on Saturdays, Sundays and state holidays, from 8:00 to 17:00.
It is a good change from beach days: shade, palms, oak hammocks and a lot of wildlife, including alligators. Bring water, because the park's drinking water is currently unavailable. Free bottled water is offered at the ranger station from 8:00 until sunset.
Canopy Walkway at Myakka
The best known stop in the park. It costs nothing beyond the park entry.
The structure
A suspension bridge 100 feet (30.5 m) long and 25 feet (7.6 m) above the ground leads to a viewing tower 74 feet (22.6 m) high with 112 steps.
Getting there
The William Boylston Nature Trail is 0.8 mile (1.3 km) long, and a shorter way to the walkway also exists. Ordinary pets are not allowed on the walkway. Service animals are.
Before you walk
Maintenance can close the walkway for a time, so check its status at the entrance station or ranger station when you arrive.
Boats on the Myakka River
Guided boat rides on the river depend on water level and season. Check the current schedule at the park before you plan a day around one. If a boat trip is the main goal, Siesta Key boat tours with dolphin, sunset and kayak options leave from the island itself.
You can also paddle on your own. Canoes and single kayaks rent for $20 for up to one hour, plus $5 for each extra hour, as of 2026. Launching a motorboat costs $4, and a no-wake rule applies. The ramp can close at low water. South of State Road 72 you need a Wilderness Preserve permit, and this permit is not a ticket for a guided tour.
Our pick: e-bike safari in the park
Our take: an e-bike lets you cover more of the park than on foot, and the helmet and water bottle are included.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Tours near Siesta Key and Sarasota
Kayak trips, dolphin cruises and day tours from the Sarasota area, with live prices and availability. Check what each option includes before you book.
Myakka River State Park fees at a glance
Prices for 2026. Camping fees add tax.
| Item | Price 2026 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle with 2–8 people | $6 | Per vehicle, not per adult |
| One person in a vehicle | $4 | Single occupant |
| Pedestrian or cyclist | $2 | Also extra passengers where the tariff applies |
| Canopy Walkway | $0 | Included with park entry |
| Motorboat launch | $4 | No-wake rule; ramp can close at low water |
| Canoe or single kayak | $20 per hour, then $5 | Up to 1 hour, then each extra hour |
| Camping | $26 per night | Plus tax and a $6.70 non-refundable booking fee |
| RV or cabin utility fee | $7 per night | Tents are exempt |
For most day visitors the answer is simple: one car, $6, and a picnic with your own water. Florida residents aged 65 or older, and visitors with certain disability proof, get 50 percent off the base camping fee, but not off the add-ons.
Alligators and wildlife safety
Alligators live in the river, the lakes and the marsh, and you may well see one. Keep a good distance, never feed them and keep pets away from the water's edge. Swim only in areas the park marks for swimming, and only during the day. Follow the signs and any advice from rangers on the day.
The same rule applies to all wildlife: watch from a distance and do not approach. Cooler, drier months are often easier for walking, while summer brings heat and rain. The weather page shows the monthly averages.
What to bring to Myakka
A short list for a day in the park.
Water and food
Bring all the drinking water you need. Free bottled water is offered at the ranger station, but do not rely on it for a long hike. Pack a picnic.
Sun and bugs
Much of the park is open marsh and prairie with little shade. Bring a hat, sun protection and insect repellent.
Camping
Camping costs $26 per night plus tax and a $6.70 non-refundable booking fee. RV and cabin stays add $7 per night for utilities. Tents are exempt from that fee.
Pets
Ordinary pets are not allowed on the Canopy Walkway, and they should stay away from the water's edge because of alligators. Service animals are allowed on the walkway.
Myakka River State Park: frequently asked questions
How much does Myakka River State Park cost?
In 2026 the fee is $6 per vehicle with 2 to 8 people, $4 for one person in a vehicle and $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. The Canopy Walkway adds nothing.
What are the opening hours?
The park is open daily from 8:00 until sunset. The North Gate is open only on Saturdays, Sundays and state holidays, from 8:00 to 17:00.
Is there drinking water in the park?
Drinking water is currently unavailable. Bring your own. Free bottled water is offered at the ranger station from 8:00 until sunset.
Can I swim in the Myakka River?
Only in the swimming areas the park marks, and only in daylight. Alligators live in the river and lakes, so keep away from the shore elsewhere.
Can I rent a kayak or canoe?
Yes. A canoe or single kayak costs $20 for up to one hour and $5 for each extra hour in 2026. Water levels affect conditions on the day.
Is this the official Myakka River State Park website?
No. This is an independent travel guide for Siesta Key and the area. It is not run by or connected with the park or the state, so check current conditions and fees with the park itself.