Get Out(side)!

Blackburn Point Park Factoids: 11.4 acres of water access spread across 3 sections Acquired in 2006 Owned and managed by Sarasota County Access to Little Sarasota Bay Unpaved trails Rules and Regulations: Hours: 6 AM - midnight (parking area); 6 AM - 10 PM (facility) Dogs must be kept on a hand-held, maximum 6-foot leash Amenities: Boat ramp Canoe/kayak launch Fishing Pier Picnicking Restroom Rowing facility Pavilion Insider Tips: The park is in 3 narrow sections with  no set trail. Easy to investigate on foot. Check out the swing bridge - maybe you'll get lucky and see it in action. What to Expect: Scenery Wildlife Boardwalk, pavilion, canoe/kayak launch,  fishing and picnicking facilities The historic swing bridge, constructed by  Champion Bridge Company and opened to traffic in December, 1926. Added to the National Register March 29, 2001. The tallest and leanest Great Blue Heron I have ever seen.

Carlton Reserve Factoids: 24,565 acres 100 miles of trails (hiking, biking and equestrian) Acquired in 1984 Named after former Sarasota County Commisioner, Mabry Carlton Jr., a 5th generation cattleman who focused on conservation Composed of pine flatwoods, freshwater wetlands, oak hammocks and dry prairie Bordered by Myakka River State Park to the north and the Myakka River to the west Sarasota County's largest well field is located within the Reserve  Trail Map:  https://www.scgov.net/Home/ShowDocument?id=30004 Rules and Regulations: Hour: 6 AM - sunset No soliciting No open fires No glass No animals No motorized vehicles Leave all natural features, plants and animals undisturbed Carry in and out - water, snacks, toilet paper, sanitizer Amenities: Accessible partially 15 miles of bicycle Trails Canoe/kayak launch  Horse stables and trailer access Picnic pavilion (reservations 941-861-7275)  Picnic tables and grills Primitive campin