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Nathan Benderson Park
5851 Nathan Benderson Circle
Sarasota, FL  34235


Nathan Benderson Park Factoids:
  • 600 acres incorporating a 400-acre artificial lake
  • Lakes were excavated to provide fill for the construction of Interstate 75
  • Owned by Sarasota County and managed by Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, Inc. (SANCA)
  • A community park, multi-use sports and world-class rowing venue
  • 3.4 mile paved loop trail with another unpaved partial loop in segments

Rules and Regulations:
  • Hours: April-October 6 AM - 8 PM; November-March 6 AM - 6 PM
  • No glass containers
  • No littering or dumping
  • No swimming (unless by special permit)
  • No soliciting
  • No open fires
  • No overnight camping
  • No feeding wildlife
  • Dogs must be kept on a hand-held, maximum 6-foot leash
  • No motored watercraft
  • No fishing from docks
  • Park in designated areas only

Amenities:
  • Accessibility
  • Restrooms
  • Playground
  • Boat ramp for non-motor watercraft, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards
  • Multiple park entrances (mostly on Cattlemen Rd., one on Honore)
  • Ample parking
  • Picnic areas
  • Benches
  • Bicycle racks
  • Bicycle repair station
  • Water bottle refill station

Insider Tips:
  • Go early to avoid crowds on the loop trail
  • Much of the trail is sunny and gets hot and humid early
  • Best wildlife viewing can be found on the 3 artificial lakes on the east side of Cattlemen Rd. near UTC Mall.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat

What to Expect:
  • Scenery
  • Wildlife





Great Blue Herons





Little Blue Herons







Juvenile White Ibis




Great Egret (above with Little Blue Heron, and below)

Limpkin

Anhinga





Black-bellied Whistling Ducks (adults above, juveniles below)



Mottled Ducks (above and below)



Red-winged Blackbird


Red-bellied Woodpecker


Mourning Dove


Common Ground Dove


Grackles (above and below)



Crow


Juvenile Tree Swallow


Killdeer






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