Emerson Point is one of those how-is-this-not-more-famous? kind of places. Whether you're into hiking, biking, kayaking, or just soaking up the views, there's always something fun to do. The hiking trails are great, the kayak launches make it easy to get out on the water, and the observation tower is a must--climb to the top for an awesome bird's-eye view, including the Sunshine Skyway Bridge showing off in the distance. There are plenty of picnic spots, plus a pavilion with nearby restrooms (always a win). One of our favorite things is walking out to the Portavant Temple Mound, where helpful signs bring the area's history to life. And if you're looking for photo ops, this place delivers--nature shots, family photos, you name it. We've had ours taken here more than once. No matter if you're exploring, relaxing, or snapping pictures, Emerson Point always has beauty waiting around the corner. There's even a welcome center near the pavilion to get you started. A perfect spot to wander, relax, and fall a little in love with Florida! read more

This was our first time here and there is so much more to explore! We drove all the way to the point and parked in the lot. There are portable bathrooms there and a lot of small beaches. We walked and stopped and enjoyed the water! We brought the bike and scooter and stroller but didn't get a chance to use them this time although there are plenty of good sidewalks to use! We will be back! read more

Emerson Point Park - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

One of my favorite places to visit. From natural trails, tree canopies, various elevation, changes, and steps to a view of the bay and Sandi beaches. This is a must see if you are an outdoor person and love hiking or you'd like to just explore some of the plant life in history or you wanna launch a kayak or maybe wind sail this is a fantastic park. read more

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Quiet retreat. Rarely crowded. Beautiful views of the Gulf, Manatee River and Tampa Bay.

Very nice trails to hike on. Beautiful water views. The tower has a wonderful view of the area. read more

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Very beautiful and peaceful area and pretty trees and flowers! We like it a lot , we ll definitely go back with our babies ! read more

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Our first visit and surely not our last. This beautiful piece of nature sets it apart from the endless development here on the coast. There are trails through the woods, trails over the creeks and inlets, paved bike trails, pedestrian only trails, beachfront on the bay and even a beachfront trail. All free. We traveled two sets of trail, one inland and the beachfront trail. Both exhilarating. And as usual, picked up garbage off the beach even though recycling, garbage and porta-potties are located in the parking area. This is a gem and hope that folks take better care of these precious resources. read more

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Great little hiking spot in Palmetto. This place was easy to find in the car, but hard to navigate once we were there. Although there is a map at the entrance, and many times along the trails, we could never quite figure out where we were. There is a series of small trails which all connect, but they aren't color coded, so it's hard to know where you were. The paths are a nice size and well taken care of. Lots of beautiful trees and some water views. The only wildlife we saw was squirrels. It appears there are places you can launch kayaks or canoes, and there are bike trails, which are sometimes shared with walkers. read more

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A wonderful park. A sense of old Florida. There are rentals for covered areas for parties. Great views of the water. Easy access for kayaking, fishing and boating. A good road to go by car end to end on the island. Lots of bike paths. One set of real restrooms and a set of porta-potties down the road. read more

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Nicest park in Manatee County. It is shaded and not crowded. Has several fishing piers and water on 3 sides. The Terra Ceia Trail also has a tower with a spectacular view. The birds and other wildlife abound. There is a beach with a view of the Skyway Bridge. Perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, wind surfing, swimming, bird watching and dog walking. Every one is friendly and the rangers go out of their way to greet you and offer assistance if needed. Feeling stressed? Emerson will make you feel better. It will help you slow down and release the tension. read more

It's beautiful you gotta go in there when you have a lot of time and just walk and relax and see nature

Such a pretty place. It's the perfect hidden area. Plenty of wildlife / avian species to see. read more

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This place is a hidden gem of trails and nature galore. We filmed a Planet Peek-A-Boo "Let's Move it" Episode here. There are so many spots at the park to explore. Take a few hours and enjoy all the nature trails and water views. https://youtu.be/htjpN8IIxF4. To see more check out... www.PlanetPeekABoo.com read more

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Very strange park with lots of trails but no actual map. Lots of mosquitoes so it was hard to enjoy on a cloudy day. Dog poop right on observation tower. Could be much better. read more

What a great park! What I love about Florida is that, for the most part, state parks are free! Including parking... Several miles of walking / running / biking trails surrounded by water and ocean views makes this the perfect place for picnics, exercise or both. There are a few spots with bathroom facilities (a port-a-Jon at the point and a visitor center with bathrooms and park volunteers). The visitors center is open 3 days a week (check the website) and staff is there to answer questions on the wildlife and indigenous inhabitant history of the area. read more

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Great spot to get out and enjoy the beauty of the bay in its natural state. Epic views of the skyway bridge, Anna Marie and Desoto. Hiking trails along the water, bicycle paths and small sandy beach make this place this my new "get away from it all" spot. The trails are well marked with crushed shell generally on most of the trails. The park is versatile enough to meet most outdoor ventures: bicycle, hiking, running and paved path to accommodate strollers or wheelchairs. Parking is minimal and spread out throughout the park so just expect to find a spot. There were Porto-potties at the end but didn't see any other facilities. Also bring in your own water Great place! Can't wait to go back! read more

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Beautiful, peaceful place to walk, jog, ride bikes or picnic while you observe the beauty of nature. Emerson Point Park is located on Snead Island, surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Manatee River and Terra Ceia Bay. It's an idyllic place for sporty types looking for a scenic place to get in some cardio, as well as bird-watchers, nature-lovers and photographers. Upon arrival, you can choose from trails on the righthand (northern) side and the lefthand (southern) side. The trails to the right are a bit more rugged and challenging (beware low-hanging trees and large roots). There's also a tall observation tower where you can take beautiful views of the waterfront area. If you take the lefthand trails, you'll find a visitor's center, large picnic areas and bathrooms, making this a great side for a picnic. There are also large, informational signs and an audio tour, so you can learn about the rich history of the area. Can't wait to return! read more

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Had such a great time with my son. So glad he came to visit us!! These are the pictures we took. So beautiful and peaceful here. Love and miss you Mandy. read more

During our last few days in Anna Maria island we found ourselves to be quite sluggish after indulging in maybe one too many baskets of fish and chips. Thankfully we had the option to have nature as our gym. This park is beautifully paved and gives you a touch of Florida's wilderness and animal life. You have the option of taking a walk or run through the woodsy path, bringing your kayak to go on the waters or run, up their stairs for a high intensity workout or going for a bike ride. The options are are suited for all types of adventure seekers. I do suggest bring some bug repellent and a bottle of water. read more

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This was a really nice nature park. Lots of nature trails to walk on or bike. Great to walk your dog. Some areas are very narrow trails however. Walked to one area that had a high lookout area upstairs. Also part of this park is right on the water and has a little beach with benches. Beautiful views! read more

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This is the best Park I've found in the Bradenton/ Palmetto Fl area! It's a wide open park with all Types of scenery from mangroves and waterfront access to swamps, trails and even some elevated areas and towers! Great place for a run or bike ride! read more

Such an amazing preserve! Florida hikes are different that anywhere else. While these weren't steep hills, it's still a great way to exercise. We came here to hike (walk) the trails, we park all ugh way at the back w a view of the skyway bridge. Then walked down until we found an opening to the nature path. We walked through the path and experienced pure nature and silence. Just amazing. We came to find a check in point that had classrooms and restrooms. Covered picnic tables are great for group events. We crossed the field from the picnic area to more trails. We discovered a small pier for boats to dock and more man made wood paths. Those were deeper into that area and had stairs leading to them. So much amazing things to see from wildlife to incredible plant life and trees. Look forward to coming back to hit the trails we didn't get to do! Bring loads of water and go on an adventure! read more

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This place is really beautiful. Mangroves, wild life, and water. You can bring a kayak if you want! Biking and walking trails for miles and miles. Gazebos are available for rental or to use if they aren't rented. They say to take pictures and leave nature as it is! No food available, so bring your own. The nature center is run by volunteers who are very nice. Great place for families and anyone else! read more

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had a lovely stroll along the water during which i spotted 4 dolphins ! looking forward to venturing here again read more

There are park gems like this throughout the area. It's nice if you're looking to walk around a bit or even bike. Not too far from the main road you can get to a tower overlooking the entire area. And if you're looking to learn, there are plenty of things to read along the way on the trails. I came here via boat (there's an accessible dock), but there are multiple places to park. read more

Emerson Point Park - From the top of the tower, skyway in the distance. - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

Emerson Point Park has been a favorite place of my families to visit for decades now. We have enjoyed the water the fishing and the sites. The things that draw us back time and time again are the amazing views of the Gulf and the river as well as the peaceful trails and rich variety of wildlife. The park is open from sunrise to sunset and is pet friendly. It also has a dock for boaters and miles of bike-friendly trails. When I was younger we would spend summer days cast-netting for mullet in the park as well. Do yourself a favor and take your family to Emerson point and enjoy the day. read more

Emerson Point Park - Visitor Center - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

Great park with SUPER NICE bay views and that of the Sunshine Skyway bridge. There are pretty big Indian mounds here and the remains of a pioneer home accessible by a cool walkway. There are also hiking and biking trails and you can launch a kayak or canoe from here to explore the water/shoreline areas. There is a large man-made 'mound' or hill that you can chill at to take in the scenery from a higher point. There is also a cool observation tower in another area of the park. Admission is free. The usual suspects of pavilions, grills and picnic tables are there to be taken advantage of. There are also some (unofficial?) beachy areas. Read/see more: http://activerain.com/blogsview/148764/emerson-point-park-palmetto-florida read more

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Great park. I have frequented this park on multiple occasions, both with my family and with my class. They offer great field trips and there is lots of history and exploring to be done. There are pavillons with picnic tables to have lunch. There are many trails for biking and walking. The park also has paved paths as well as dirt/shell trails through the woods, so there is something for everyone. Emerson Point is also pet friendly and it's great to see so many families with their dogs. The best part is that it is right on the river. You can let your dog go swimming (I wouldn't recommend it for people) or you can go fishing. Definitely check it out. read more

Emerson Point Park - Facing the mouth of the Manatee River - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

Wow, what a nice surprise. A neat little park tucked away on Snead Island. Lots of paths, spots to launch your kayak, with great views! Although, we didn't bring our dogs, the park is dog friendly. Just bring a leash! read more

Emerson Point Park - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

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One of the best parks in the area ! Great place for hiking and bird-watching. The employees work hard to keep the place looking beautiful! Thank you Manatee county for everything you do to keep this place so nice. read more

Emerson Point Park an Indian Historic site. Located in Palmetto and in part of Snead Island. Beautiful views of Terra Ceia and Tampa Bay distant view of the Skyway Bridge best scene on top of Tower located at the middle of the park. Great trails to hike and explore. Route for bikers and walkers. Great place to see how the Indians live up on the mound of Emerson. Bathrooms and Welcome Center near the entrance of the park. read more

Absolutely lovely walk. Trail is well maintained and flat. Ample parking and multiple shelters to stop and just sit or enjoy.

Very nice trailed park, with extensive River & Bay views, Manatee river across from Bradenton & Anna Marie island & other side views of The St Pete Bay Bridge & Various nooks & Crannies of the bay. Multiple trials suitable for walking , running, biking, plenty of shade & plenty of parking read more

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great views at the end of the trail... nice place for birding and walking... I saw snake birds doing there display and dance... good fun... there is extensive trails for walking or bike riding. It is very quiet and not well attended. Has some nice views of the bridges. It is also dog freindly. There is also a shell midden from early native americans. read more

Tucked away by the Tampa Bay this beautiful park holds thousands of years of American Indian history. The park has a nature center, picnic areas and miles of well maintained trails for biking and walking. Though smaller than Robinson Preserve (also highly recommended) Emerson's ancient sites make it an extra special place to visit. read more

Emerson Point Park - Emerson Point Park has loads of interesting trails for walking and biking. - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

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Amazing views of the gulf and fun biking trails! Favorite part was climbing up the stairs of the hill at the very end of the park and taking in the beautiful view. There aren't many places in florida with a hill so emerson point is very unique. Also loved the quiet almost private little beach areas and trails. Could lay out relaxing there for hours. Will be back again soon! read more

Emerson Point Park - View on top of the hill of emerson point - Parks Near Me - Palmetto, Florida

I love this park! First of all it is free. Secondly it is absolutely beautiful and well maintained. There are a lot of different ecosystems to explore and cool historical sights with information along the trails. It has plenty of pavilions for picnics and restrooms, water fountains, and trash cans. There are kayak launches and a beach area where you can fish with a beach trail which is nice, but prepare for mosquitos at certain times of the year. Another area takes you to a overlook tower which is beautiful because you can see water everywhere, and if you follow the trail from there over a boardwalk you will find fishing piers which have nice views and steps to get into the water. There are little crabs everywhere, cool spiders all over the place, raccoons, eagles, and so much more wildlife to see. This time of year it smells sweet from nectar on the trees and if you're quiet you can hear the buzz of thousands of bees pollinating them. It's such a relaxing place to go, absolutely worth the hour drive it takes me to get there. read more

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Only 4 stars bc I need to explore more. This place is dog friendly with nice walking/ hiking paths. There is a hill that has a tower so you can get a great view of the area. I will be back in a few days with my kayak, fishing poles, dog and a picnic lunch. Will update review then. read more

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Clear your mind with a stroll through the Snead Island trails at Emerson Park. The peaceful, serene atmosphere consists of a salty breeze, chirping birds, and seashell guided trails. This is another beautiful gem that you can only find in Florida. It is located about 15 minutes from the Skyway Bridge. The trails are narrow and unfortunately, not wheelchair accessible. There are a few steep stairs to climb up and down and an inclined ramp to tackle on one the park's trails. Educate yourself about Snead Island by reading the informational boards scattered throughout the park and take a selfie with the ruins, such as, the homestead chimney. There's a nice field by the dock you could enjoy a picnic on, or go fishing off the dock if that's your thing. There's plenty of benches to rest and take in the views. Be sure to pack water, snacks, and sunscreen. The visitor "center" has nice bathrooms, but you can find porta-potties at the far end of the park. Enjoy! xo read more

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Great place for kayaking, biking fishing, we even had our family photos taken there! Great park!!!