Myakka River — Flatford Swamp • Eastern Manatee County, north of Myakka City

About Myakka River — Flatford Swamp

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The Flatford Swamp tract encompasses nearly all of the Flatford Swamp wetland ecosystem and is the primary surface water feature in the Upper Myakka River watershed. These wetlands are a part of the headwaters of the Myakka River and have a major influence on the water flow and quality of the river, Upper Myakka Lake and the waters within Myakka River State Park. The upper reaches of the Myakka River flow through the swamp along with other major tributaries, including Long Creek, Sand Slough, Maple Creek, Coker Creek, Youngs Creek, Ogleby Creek and Boggy Creek.

The habitat within the property is mostly bottomland swamp and freshwater marsh. There are rangelands, hardwood forests and pine flatwoods scattered along the periphery of the property.

Recreational Opportunities

Fishing

Contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for license requirements.

Hiking

Narrow flatwoods roads.
Prepare for wet hiking; some trails are excessively wet during certain times of year.
Unmarked trails – use of navigation devices suggested.

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Access and Parking

From I-75; head east on SR 64 to Wauchula Road; head south to the intersection of Wauchula and Taylor roads.
Walk-thru entrance at intersection of Taylor and Wauchula roads; parking to accommodate a limited number of visitors to property.
Walk-thru off Wauchula Road in the southeast portion of property; does not provide parking.

Limited Access Areas

Access is limited because property is generally flooded, which is not conducive to recreational trail development. Wauchula Road is located at the eastern edge of the property and provides the best access. There are narrow flatwoods roads and jeep trails that provide limited access to the central portion of the property but are flooded during the rainy season. Access is only feasible by foot, but those hardy enough to venture out will be rewarded with the uniqueness of unspoiled Florida.