The northern black widow is very similar to the southern black widow, except its hourglass mark is broken into 2 triangle- shaped markings, and there is a row of red spots down the middle of the back. It has only been reported from the Florida panhandle. Surprisingly, as common as this spider is, black widow bites are infrequent because the spider is actually very timid and prefers fleeing when disturbed. That’s a good thing because the venom of a widow spider is 15 times more toxic than that of rattlesnakes. However, due to the small amount of the venom injected into the bite, widow bites are far less serious.
Just off of a hiking/biking trail. Not much shade on some of the trails. Be sure to bring plenty of water. You may get wet feet and bug spray is recommended depending on the season.
Myakka River State Park is one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks. The scenic Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands. The park is popular for geocaching, hiking, boating, kayaking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation.
As of January 2025, the Park Entrance Fees are as follows:
- $6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle
- $4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
- $2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
- $60.00 Bus Tour Fee (30+ people).
- $2.00 per person, Bus Tour Fee (less than 30 people).
Park hours are 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year.
The North Gate is only open on Saturday, Sunday and State Holidays from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Placed with permission of Park Manager Steve Giguere