Florida Scrub Jay

Oscar Scherer State Park

A hidden nature preserve for imperiled species surrounded by busy urban areas

Burn ban in effect

Effective April 1, 2025: Sarasota County has issued a recreational burn ban. All fires except for the use of liquified petroleum gas devices. This ban will be lifted by Sarasota County when drought conditions reach a predetermined level. 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Effective March 1, 2025: Road paving will be underway at Oscar Scherer State Park. Expect road closures and delays.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Effective Jan. 21, 2025: The Orange Trail at Oscar Scherer State Park is temporarily closed for maintenance.

Hours

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

Fees

$5 per vehicle

See all fees

Location

1843 S. Tamiami Trail
Osprey FL 34229

Get directions

Contact Info

941-483-5956

Welcome to Oscar Scherer State Park

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


A hidden gem surrounded by housing developments and major highways, Oscar Scherer 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 and swimmers.

South Creek attracts anglers, canoers and kayakers. 

With 15 miles of trails, this park provides solitude, beauty, challenge and a healthy adventure for everyone. Oscar Sherer is a popular stopover for bicyclists and walkers on the Legacy Trail, making this an important place for the surrounding community and a worthwhile stop for travelers.

Plan Your Visit

Park Manager Matt Kruse
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Manager's Message

Welcome to Oscar Scherer State Park. We are committed to offering visitors an escape from daily life by welcoming you back to nature.
Glamping at Oscar Scherer State Park
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Glamping at Oscar Scherer

Stay cozy, reserve your Glampsite today!
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 1,400 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 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.
The Nature Center at Oscar Scherer State Park.
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Explore the Nature Center

The Nature Center offers interactive ways to learn about park programs, history and wildlife.

Experiences

Bicycling
Bicycling
Birding
Birding
Camping
Camping
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
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.
Learn

Lake Osprey and the Scrubby Flatlands

Lake Osprey is a human-made lake that attracts thousands of people throughout the year, and it's the only freshwater swimming lake in Sarasota County.

People Make the Parks

Diana kneels to take a photo.

Staff Spotlight

Diana Stinson has received the District 4 Joe Kenner Award for Interpreter of the Year.
Volunteer Banner

Volunteer Spotlight

Meet the recipients of the 2023 Volunteer Awards for 2023
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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