Bee Island

About this site

Bee Island is one of six primitive campsites in Myakka River State Park, spots where you'll find a fire ring, space for a tent and little else. Bee Island doesn’t look like an island. There’s no water in sight. But back when Myakka River State Park was just one massive grassy cattle pasture, this stretch of elevated ground was home to the only trees in sight, a grove of longleaf pines. The “island” of trees got its name from the swarms of bees that once lived there, producing palmetto honey that sweetened the lives of settlers. It’s a 5.4-mile hike to Bee Island (or you can use the Ranch House Road shortcut). Wherever you camp, you must bring everything with you. There’s no drinkable water, no bathrooms, no pre-cut firewood.

Amenities & access

Contact

• https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/myakka-river-state-park

Location

27.252543, -82.253168