Myakka River — Flatford Swamp

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.

Park Details

Street Address

39450 Taylor Road
Myakka City, FL 34251
United States

Size
2357 Acres
Hours of Operation
Daily from sunrise to sunset.

Site Features

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Term

Fishing

Recreation Description

Recreation Term

Hiking

Recreation Description
  • Approximately 2 mile of trails.
  • Prepare for wet hiking; some trails are excessively wet during certain times of year.

Additional Information

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-through entrance at intersection of Taylor and Wauchula roads; parking to accommodate a limited number of visitors to property.
  • Walk-through 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.

Restrooms and Water
  • No restrooms or water available.
Location
  • Eastern Manatee County, north of Myakka City
For more Information
  • Land Resources, Southwest Florida Water Management District, 1-800-423-1476 (FL only) or (352) 796-7211, ext. 4470