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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 



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 camping (permit required)
  • Restrooms
  • Interpretive signage
  • Equestrian trails
  • Unpaved trails
  • Visitor center/historic cabin

Insider Tips:
  • Not recommended to visit during rainy season - parking lot is a mess and many trails are underwater
  • Only take off-road bikes for trail-riding, especially for the challenging BoldlyGo Trail
  • Make sure you have a trail map and compass
  • Wear sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat

What to Expect:
  • Scenery
  • Wildlife
Picnic pavilion (above); picnic table (below left); 
visitor center/historic cabin (below right)


Morning mist on the trail


A runner on the trail just before sunrise


Catbird
Red-shouldered Hawk








Swallow-tailed Kite





 Red-bellied Woodpecker


 Mockingbird

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