Amenities

Hiking/walking trails, non-motorized bicycle trails, fishing pier/dock, butterfly garden, picnic shelters, park benches, playground, pet-friendly, limited parking, restrooms coming soon

Experiences

Red Bug Slough Preserve is a remnant piece of natural Florida nestled in the midst of suburban Sarasota. You will want to bring your binoculars, as the preserve is listed as one of Audubon Society’s “Hot Birding Spots” in the County. Hiking and biking trails through the preserve are shaded by pines and palmettos that give way to oaks draped with Spanish moss. Along the way, look for grey squirrels, marsh rabbits, river otters, an occasional alligator, an assortment of song birds and wildflowers, such as partridge pea and frostweed. Before ending your visit, stop to relax on one of the park benches overlooking the lake.

The preserve has several miles of hiking trails. The trails are unpaved but accessible for most visitors. Some trails may flood after heavy rainfall and several may be wet year round where they cross creeks and ditches. Leashed dogs are allowed at the preserve. Water, sun block, a rain jacket, insect repellant and sturdy shoes are recommended for hiking.

History

This 72 acre preserve was purchased in 2000 and 2001 through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program, with funding assistance provided by Florida Communities Trust.

Habitats

Prairie and hydric hammock, mesic flatwoods, hardwood basin swamps and waterways

Acreage

72 acres

Watershed

Sarasota Bay (Phillippi Creek basin)

Who Owns and Maintains

Owned and maintained by Sarasota County

Website

www.scgov.net

SCAT Bus stop and route

Route 6 on Beneva Rd. and route 15 on Clark Rd.