Oscar Scherer State Park

Oscar Scherer State Park is a southwest Florida state park, located on U.S. 41, just six miles south of Sarasota. Miles of scenic hiking and off-road bicycling await adventurers at the park. Would you rather take your hike in a kayak or canoe instead? Then put in at the boat ramp and paddle on the non-motorized waterway South Creek and enjoy a day of all water fun. Too much exercise for you? Then kick back on the beach of gorgeous Lake Osprey or enjoy a dip in this cool freshwater Florida lake. With so much to do, you'll probably want to stay over night at the campground. Expect a great Florida family fun adventure whether you stay a week or stay a few hours.

One of the most popular activities at Oscar Scherer State Park is the water. The three acre freshwater Lake Osprey provides swimming and a small beach. A small white sand beach and a roped off section allow swimmers and sun bathers to enjoy the lake.

Anglers will appreciate Oscar Scherer State Park as freshwater fishing on shore or at the dock on Finely Trail provides a great place to drop a line. Bass, bream and bluegill are good small game fish. This lake is stocked with catfish and is a delicious treat when cooked over a campfire. Saltwater angling is also available at South Creek and can be done from the banks of by canoe and kayak.

A Wednesday guided ranger canoe on Lake Osprey is a fantastic way to explore the Lake by boat. You can also launch at the natural boat launch which means it's just a dirt trail leading to the shore of the creek. Canoe rentals from the ranger station are probably the most popular outdoor activity at the park and cost just $5 an hour or $25 for the whole day.

Over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails wind their way through Oscar Scherer State Park and offer visitors a glimpse at the "Oscar Scherer outback" as its referred to by park rangers.

Once you've had your fill of outdoor adventure, spend the night and do it all over again at the parks full-facility campground. Each site is fully equipped with picnic tables, grills, fire ring, water and electricity. So bring your tent or RV for some great Florida camping.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operations or fees, visit the official Oscar Scherer State Park website here.