There’s always something to do at Oscar Scherer State Park.
‘Voted America’s Best State Park’
A large acreage of scrubby flatwoods makes Oscar Scherer park one of the best places to see Florida scrub-jays, a threatened species found only in Florida.
The park also protects scrubby and pine flatwoods that were once widespread throughout Sarasota County.
Fifteen miles of trails through these beautiful natural areas provide opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and wildlife viewing.
Kayakers and canoe enthusiasts can paddle along South Creek, a blackwater stream that flows to the Gulf of Mexico. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, but motorized boats are not permitted in the park boundaries.
Freshwater and saltwater fishing are available along the creek. Anglers can fish along the shores of Lake Osprey, which is also the park´s swimming destination.
Picnic areas along South Creek are equipped with grills; pavilions can be reserved for a fee.
The park has full-facility campsites and a youth/group campground. The Oscar Scherer Nature Center has exhibits and videos about the park´s natural communities.
Oscar Scherer State Park is located on U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail).
Address: 1843 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, Florida 34229 Phone: (941) 483-5956
Directions: Oscar Scherer State Park is located on U.S.41, six miles south of Sarasota. Heading south on I-75 take exit 200. Heading north on I-75 take exit 195.
The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.
Admission Fee: $5.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle. $4.00 Single occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass. $4.00 Sunset Entrance.
Oscar Scherer Park is Pet-Friendly (though pets are restricted from some designated areas)
