Don Pedro Island State Park
Activities
Prepare for your brief island getaway – pack a picnic lunch and binoculars, bird lists, maps, fishing gear, swimsuit and anything else you may need for a few hours of rest and relaxation in this beautiful paradise.And you’ll need to plan ahead since the park is located on Little Gasparilla Island and only accessible by boat. Once you’re there… discover nature and wildlife along Florida’s southwest coast, learn more about the area through one of the ranger-led programs, collect shells and so much more. Here are some of the many activities that you can do during your visit to Don Pedro Island State Park:
Boating at Don Pedro Island State Park
Bring your canoe or kayak and spend the day off the coast of Don Pedro Island State Park. Day use only docks are available on the bay side. For docking access and more information please call 941-964-0375.
Swimming at Don Pedro Island State Park
Swim and snorkel in the clear blue waters, and collect shells while enjoying the beautiful white sandy beach along the Gulf of Mexico. A swimming area is available for guests on the east side of the island. You may also bring your own scuba gear and dive along the beach area.
Hiking at Don Pedro Island State Park
Don Pedro Island State Park has one distinct nature trail that leads the hiker through 11 different natural communities. This trail is considered easy and gives visitors more opportunities to see nature and wildlife inside the park. Keep an eye out for a few of the island’s protected plant species.
Fishing at Don Pedro Island State Park
Pick up a Florida fishing license and pack your angling gear for a relaxing day of fishing inside Don Pedro Island State park. The Intracoastal Waterway and the gulf of Mexico provide ideal conditions for catching whiting, redfish, snook, trout, snapper, flounder, tarpon and sheepshead.
Birding at Don Pedro Island State Park
Many native and migratory birds may be spotted within the park’s 10 natural habitats. Some you may glimpse during your visit are bald eagles, terns, plovers, sandpipers, gulls and the American oystercatcher.
Nature and Wildlife at Don Pedro Island State Park
Beautiful Don Pedro Island State Park is home to many species of wildlife. Many migratory species may be seen here as well. The coastal waterways, grasslands, maritime hammock and slash pine protect such creatures as the West Indian manatee, gopher tortoise, bald eagle, loggerhead sea turtles, rabbits and white-tailed deer.
Pets at Don Pedro Island State Park
Pets are allowed within Don Pedro Island State Park but must be supervised and kept on a hand held leash no longer than 6 feet. Pets are not permitted inside any park buildings or on the beach.
Camping Near Don Pedro Island State Park
Don Pedro Island State Park doesn’t offer overnight accommodations at this time. For visitors hoping to stay over, nearby Cayo Costa State Park is a good option. Cayo Costa State Park, located just 11 miles away in Captiva features 30 primitive tent campsites and 12 rustic cabins. Campsites are located close to the beach in a primitive area and the cabins are nestled in a wooded area near the nature trails. Each campsite has a picnic table, grill and access to potable water and restrooms. A tram service is provided daily between 10 am and 4 pm to bring campers from the docks to the campground one mile away. And each cabin is a one room style with 3 bunk beds, a table and a porch, but no electricity or water. An outdoor grill is provided and restrooms are a short walk away. This park is also located on an island and everything that you will need must be carried in, including food and water.
Park Location
Don Pedro Island State Park 8450 Placida Rd Placida, FL 33946 Phone: 941.964.0375 Website
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Don Pedro Island State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter a Florida state park?
Most Florida state parks charge $4 to $6 per vehicle (up to 8 occupants). An individual annual pass costs $60, and a family annual pass costs $120, covering unlimited visits to all state parks.
Can I swim with manatees at Florida state parks?
While you cannot swim with manatees (they are protected), several spring parks like Blue Spring State Park offer excellent viewing from boardwalks. Manatees gather in springs from November through March when river temperatures drop.
Are alligators dangerous in Florida state parks?
Alligators are present in virtually all freshwater bodies in Florida. They are generally not aggressive toward humans, but you should never approach, feed, or harass them. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from water edges.
What is the best time to visit Florida state parks?
Winter and spring (November through April) offer the best conditions: pleasant temperatures, low humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and peak manatee viewing. Summer brings extreme heat, humidity, and daily thunderstorms.
Explore More Florida State Parks
Don Pedro Island State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
