| POINTS OF
INTEREST
Blackburn Point Park
800 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey. This park has a
launch point and offers fishing, picnicking, and
nearby restaurants. Bait shop in the area.
941-861-5000.
Oscar Scherer
State Park
1843 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey. A 1,384-acre park
that has a brackish water tidal creek running
through it. The park offers bicycle trails, camping,
nature trails, fishing, picnic areas, and a swimming
area. The park is pet friendly, and has phones, and
restrooms. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, 8
a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. There is a ranger-led paddle
program (entrance fee and rental fee apply). Inquire
at the ranger’s office at the entrance. There is an
entry fee per vehicle, per day.
For camping reservations call: 1-800-326-3521.
For information call: 941-483-5956 or
www.floridastateparks.org/oscarscherer
Palmer Point Park
Located between Siesta Key and Casey Key. A secluded
bay to beach park that is not accessible by car.
Excellent for fishing and observing nature. |
MAP
South
Creek Trail
ROUTE
This trail follows the coast along the barrier island of Casey
Key. Paddling up South Creek will take you into the lush
vegetation of Oscar Scherer State Park.
NAVIGATIONAL NOTES
When launching at Blackburn Point Park be aware that this area
can have heavy boat traffic. As you paddle into the bay from
South Creek also beware of the boat traffic.
SHORT TRIPS
Blackburn Point Park to South
Creek
This is a 4-mile loop. As you leave the launch at Blackburn
Point Park, paddle south under the swing bridge. Approximately
one mile into the route you will see the opening to South Creek
on the east side of the bay. Take a trip down this quiet trail
that winds its way into Oscar Scherer State Park.
Blackburn Point Park to Osprey Fishing Pier
This is a perfect route to include a stop for refreshments. At
both ends of the loop you can enjoy a waterfront restaurant. It
is a 2-mile loop within Little Sarasota Bay. Use caution when
crossing the Intracoastal Waterway.
LAUNCH POINTS
Blackburn Point Park
At the intersection of U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail) and Blackburn Pt.
Road, turn west toward Casey Key. Immediately after crossing the
Blackburn Point Historic Bridge the park and launch area is
located to the right.
Shoreland Park
Traveling south on U.S. 41 to Osprey, continue south
approximately
two miles, turn right onto Shoreland Drive The park is on the
left as you take the curve in the road. Limited parking.
Oscar Scherer State Park
From Osprey continue south on U.S. 41 approximately two miles.
The entrance to the park is on the left. (Note: There is an
entry fee per vehicle per day.) Drive approximately 1/2 mile and
take the first right after entering the park to reach the launch
point. |
