The prominent banana spider in Florida is called the Golden Silk Orb Weaver. This spider is also sometimes called the Banana Spider or the Writing Spider. It is one of the largest spiders in Florida, with a body length of about 1.5 inches (4 cm) and a leg span of up to 5 inches (13 cm). The female banana spider of this species is usually much larger than the male.
The color yellow is what makes this spider so unique from many other arachnid species. The Golden Silk Orb Weaver gets its name from the yellow color of its silk and the large, round webs it builds.
The Florida banana spider isn’t usually dangerous to humans, although a bite may cause some local swelling and pain.
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