The Myakka "Wild and Scenic River" flows through the western portion of the park and its two lakes and floodplain marshes are a haven for wading birds and waterfowl. The scenic drive winds through shady hammocks, verdant marshes and along the Upper Myakka Lakeshore. Airboat tours, tram rides, and ranger-led walks provide insight into one of Florida's last remaining wildernesses.

These air-powered vessels venture into the shallow, grassy areas where traditional crafts of such size wouldn't dare to go. The leisurely ride is so safe and smooth you'll have no problem taking photographs to bring home.

You don't have to "rough it" to take Myakka Wildlife Tours' special "Tram Safari" into the back country of Myakka River State Park. Discover what life in old Florida was like as you see it through the eyes of the early settlers. Learn to detect clues of the presence of resident wildlife as you pass through shady hammocks, majestic pine flatwoods, fertile marshes and sunny prairies. If you want to gain an understanding of the intricate workings of a natural ecosystem in progress, you have to experience it for yourself.

BIRDING PARADISE
Myakka offers birders an exciting lineup of birding experiences. Diversity of habitat is responsible for the variety of birds that can be seen in a day. Herons and ibis feed in shallow lakes and fertile marshes; eagles nest in pine flatwoods and steal fish from successful ospreys; and the calls of meadowlarks and bobwhite echo through the prairies.

Winter and spring bring flocks of ducks, warblers, wading birds and hawks. It is a time when the waters of the Myakka River and Upper and Lower Myakka Lakes are at their lowest. The shallow waters often entice large flocks of wading birds into a feeding frenzy.

Park Rangers offer Beginning Birding classes at 9:00 a.m. on Sundays from Thanksgiving to Easter. New birders learn to use field guides and binoculars, then go out into the field to discover the pleasures of birding.

Myakka River--Wild & Scenic
Because of strong citizen interest in protecting its scenic qualities, the Myakka was declared an official Florida Wild and Scenic River by State Legislature in 1985.

When development threatened and adjoining the park in 1992, thousands of Floridians wrote to legislators petitioning for its protection. The campaign was a success. The land was purchased with Preservation 2000 funds and now the park manages an additional 8,249 acres.

THE CABINS AT MYAKKA RIVER
The five palm log cabins were built by the men of the Civilian Conservation Corps. They include an air conditioner, electric stove & refrigerator and hot water showers.

CABIN RENTAL:
$55 per night for up to 4 people

$5 each additional person

$3 extra vehicle

There is no extra charge for children under 6 years or members of the same immediate family (parents and dependent children). Maximum Occupancy 6 persons. Rental Deposit required.

Check in: 4 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.

Reservations
Reservations are accepted by phone or in person. Call (941) 361-6511

Call up to 11 months in advance to reserve cabins for 2 to 14 nights. One night reservations are accepted up to 30 days in advance for Sunday through Thursday nights (except holidays). Cabins may be rented for one night on weekends or holidays when available.

Special Notation:
Cabins are very popular and often are completely booked for weekends, months in advance. Holidays are often booked 11 months in advance. If you are unable to reserve cabins for the days you need them, there is a private campground on the Myakka River that also rents cabins. Contact Venice Campground for information.

Cabin Refund Policy
Reservation deposit fee, less handling fee, will be refunded from Tallahassee if the reservation is canceled at least 14 days prior to check in date.

Cancellations received later than 14 days prior to the scheduled check-in date or after arrival at the park: (reservation fee, less handling fee), will be refunded from Tallahassee if the cabin can be rented for the remainder of the nights reserved.

Sorry, no pets allowed in the campgrounds.

Cabins at other locations:
Venice Campground is a private campground on the Myakka River (south of Sarasota) that offers camping and cabins.

Fourteen miles of the Myakka Wild and Scenic river flows through the park. Bring your own canoe or rent from Myakka River Outpost. A boat ramp on the Upper Myakka Lake provides access to the river and both lakes. Additional canoe launch locations are at picnic areas along the main drive. During periods of low water (winter and spring) it is necessary to portage around the weir at the south end of the Upper Myakka Lake. It may also be necessary to portage along shallow portions of the river or when blockages of water hyacinths occur.

Rental Prices at Canoe Outpost
Deposit Required: $30 + Driver's License

0 - 2 hours	$10
2 - 4 hours	$18
4 hours - All Day	$25

Rates: Dec-April $15 per night; May - Nov $11 per night. Electricity $2 per night. Extra person & extra car rates may also apply.

Six primitive campsites are located along a 39-mile hiking trail. Hike through oak-palm forest, dry prairie, pine flatwoods and wetlands. Shortest hike to a campground is 2 1/2 miles. Shaded campsites have pitcher pumps but water must be treated. Reservations are taken up to 11 months in advance. $3 per person per night for adults. Children under 18 are $2.

Three group camp sites are available for organized groups such as church groups, scouts and civic clubs. Reservations are taken by phone up to 11 months in advance. Tents only, no electric available. Bathrooms have showers with hot water. Each site has tables and grills and accommodates up to 20 persons. Adults $3 per night. Children under 18 are $2.