Florida Scrub Jay

Oscar Scherer State Park

A hidden nature preserve for imperiled species, surrounded by urban sprawl

Partial Closure of Kayak Trail

The kayak / canoe trail at Oscar Scherer will be partially closed during construction of the campground bridge. Boat rentals will continue to be available and the South Creek remains open. There will be no access beyond the campground vehicle bridge in order to allow construction crews to work safely.

Dump Station Closure

The dump station, located in the campground, will be closed during the bridge replacement. It is scheduled to be completed by November 22, 2019, however please check back in the event that we're able to open ahead of schedule.

Campground Closure

Oscar Scherer is in the process of replacing the campground bridge. This bridge is the only way to access the campground for campers, and as a result, the campground will be closed. 

We hope to open the campground before November 22, 2019, but we would rather provide a large window for the contractor if issues arise. Bridge work may be completed early so check Reserve America periodically for reservation opportunities.

 

Hours

8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Fees

$5 per vehicle

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Location

1843 South Tamiami Tr.
Osprey FL 34229

Get directions

Contact Info

941-483-5956

Welcome to Oscar Scherer State Park

Surrounded by urban sprawl, Oscar Scherer State Park is an unexpected oasis providing visitors with a refreshing escape into natural Florida.

Oscar Scherer is a hidden gem surrounded by housing developments and major highways, and the park plays an invaluable role in the preservation of Florida scrub-jay habitat. Bald eagles nest here in the winter and in the summer Lake Osprey attracts anglers, swimmers and kayakers.

Fifteen miles of trails provide solitude, beauty, challenge and a healthy adventure for everyone. The park is a popular stopover for bicyclists and walkers on the Legacy Trail, making Oscar Scherer an important place for the surrounding community and a worthwhile stop for travelers.

Plan Your Visit

Tony Clements, Park Manager
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Manager's Message

Welcome to Oscar Scherer State Park, we look forward to your visit with us. If you’re looking for an adventure or just a place to recharge your batteries we’ve got it all
ADA launch
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Canoeing and Kayaking

Enjoy the quiet beauty of nature as you take a serene paddle down South Creek. This tidal estuary is a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Legacy Trail Bridge
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Best of Both Worlds

This is what people say when camping or visiting Oscar Scherer State Park. With 1400 acres, 15 miles of trails and close proximity to shops, it’s easy to leave your troubles at the park gate and get away from it all.
A view of South Creek.
Service

Guided Paddle Along South Creek

South Creeks guided paddle takes you on a journey as you wind through the park. Learn about the estuarine critters, mangroves and the parks history along the way.
A view of a Florida Scrub Jay.
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Sunday Scrub Jay Walk

Take a guided walk in the parks scrubby flatwoods, home to the native Florida Scrub Jay. Learn about this unique bird, their habitat and its family dynamics. See why resource management is so important in preserving Sarasota County’s largest scrub habitat.
A view of the tram.
Service

Green Trail Tram Tours

Sit back and relax as you tour the park's Green Trail. Watch for The Florida Scrub Jay, gopher tortoises and the seasonal wildflowers in bloom.

Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling
Birding
Birding
Camping
Camping
Camping, Primitive Group
Camping, Primitive Group
Fishing
Fishing
Geo-Seeking
Geo-Seeking
Hiking
Hiking
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Roller Blading
Roller Blading
Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Swimming
Swimming
Tours
Tours
Walking and Running
Walking and Running
Weddings
Weddings
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities
Beach
Beach
Campfire Circles
Campfire Circles
Campgrounds
Campgrounds
Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Laundry
Laundry
Parking
Parking
Pets
Pets
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Playground
Playground
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities
RV
RV
Shower Station
Shower Station
Visitor Center
Visitor Center

Oscar Scherer State Park Photo Gallery

Kayakers at Oscar Scherer State Park
Boardwalk at Oscar Scherer State Park
Big Lake Restoration Project

Big Lake Restoration Project

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Information
Haunted Trails

Come and get a little spooky with the Haunted Trails during the month of October.

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Information
Scrub Jay Run

Help support the endangered Florida Scrub Jay and participate in the 5-k run.

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Information
Oscar Scherer Perspective
South Creek Nature Trail
Lake Osprey Beach Pavilion
Florida Scrub Jay
Learn

Florida Scrub Jay

It’s the state’s only endemic bird, which means the Florida scrub-jay is found nowhere else, and its need for a specific habitat is one reason why scrub-jay numbers are declining. The only bird species that requires a sandy, scrubby habitat to survive is the Florida scrub-jay.
A view of Lake Osprey with people dotted along the shore.
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Lake Osprey and the Scrubby Flatlands

Lake Osprey is a manmade lake that attracts thousands of people throughout the year, and the only freshwater swimming lake in Sarasota County and serves as the centerpiece for a variety of unique ecosystems and natural habitats.

Upcoming Events

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Event

7th Annual Haunted Trails

Fri, Oct 25, 2019 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm EDT

A frightfully fun family event featuring a Haunted Trail, Haunted House, Lil Monster Manor, kids crafts and games, Trick or Treat trail, and much more. Tickets sold online only; not available at door.
Oscar Scherer

Osprey, FL

Event

7th Annual Haunted Trails

Sat, Oct 26, 2019 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm EDT

A frightfully fun family event featuring a Haunted Trail, Haunted House, Lil Monster Manor, kids crafts and games, Trick or Treat trail, and much more. Tickets sold online only; not available at door.
Oscar Scherer

Osprey, FL

Event

Audubon Society Guided Bird Walk

Thu, Nov 7, 2019 8:30 am - 10:00 am EST

Guided Bird walk led by Venice or Sarasota Audubon volunteers. View the parks resident and migrating birds during your walk along the park's trails.
Oscar Scherer

Osprey, FL

People Make the Parks

Diana Stinson, smiling at the camera, wearing her ranger uniform.

Staff Spotlight

Diana Stinson loves the opportunity to share the value of protecting and preserving Oscar Scherer State Park with others.
Francis Folkers, smiling at the camera.

Volunteer Spotlight

Francis Folkers has worked it all, from the office to the outdoors. Through her many years of volunteering, she has had the opportunity to learn something new every day, while protecting and preserving the precious resources.
Friends of Oscar Scherer State Park

Friends of Oscar Scherer State Park

Friends Groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

Park Map

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