OSCAR SCHERER STATE PARK
HISTORY
In 1955, Elsa Scherer Burrows bequeathed 462 acres of land to the state
of Florida for use as a park. The land was donated in memory of her father,
Oscar Scherer, an inventor who developed a process for dyeing leather
for shoes in 1872.
After a year of preparation,
Oscar Scherer State Recreation Area was opened to the public in 1956.
In 1991, an additional 922 acres were purchased as part of the P2000 initiative.
This increased the parks total acreage to 1384 acres.
RESOURCES
The biological features of this park consist of two significant plant communities,
pine flatwoods and scrubby flatwoods. Both communities provide a home for
many unique animals which are present in the park. The park, now named Oscar
Scherer State Park, is particularly noted for its population of Florida
scrub jays, which are a threatened species. Bald eagles, bobcats, river
otters and alligators are often seen in the park.
ENDANGERED HABITATS
The most significant plant community in the park is the scrubby flatwoods.
Besides the scrub jay, several other species which are declining in numbers
in Florida inhabit this vital area. These species include the gopher tortoise,
gopher frog and indigo snake. Currently, the scrubby flatwoods is in poor
condition due to past suppression and exclusion of natural fires. Active
management of the scrubby flatwoods includes mechanical methods as well
as the use of prescribed burning. The unique habitat is becoming increasingly
more valuable as it rapidly disappears from Florida due to the land being
high, dry and easily cleared for development.
The second
major plant community in the park is the pine flatwoods. This area is home
to a variety of birds including warblers and woodpeckers. The gopher tortoise
may also be found making the pine flatwoods its home.
ACTIVITIES
Along with the wildlife easily observed at Oscar Scherer State Park, there
are a number of recreational activities available. A small freshwater lake
provides visitors with a perfect location for swimming. Fishing is enjoyed
in South Creek with freshwater species found above the dam and saltwater
species found below the dam. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required
for all persons 16 years of age or older. A saltwater license may be required.
See a park ranger for specific license requirements.
Visitors with a sense of adventure
will find South Creek ideal for canoeing. Canoes may be rented at the
ranger station. You may want to join a park ranger for a guided canoe
program and learn more about the park's history and plant and animal life.
Campsites are available for tent or RV camping with complete hook-ups
for electric and water.
The park also has a primitive
youth camping area available. Trails wind through natural areas of the park
providing the visitors with a close look at the different varieties of plants
and many wildlife species. Park rangers give guided walks and campfire programs
according to seasonal demand. Oscar Scherer State Park is the only park
in the state with a totally ADA accessible nature trail. The Lester Finley
Trail was named after the late Mr. Finley a park volunteer who was blind.
Mr. Finley spent many hours working in the park helping to manage the resources,
clean trails, and any other task assigned to him. Much of the trail is a
result of volunteer labor from local residents and local school children
who worked together to create this trail for everyone to enjoy.
Oscar Scherer State Park is located on U.S. 41, six miles south of Sarasota. From I-75 North, take exit 36. From I-75 South take exit 35B.For more information, contact:
Oscar Scherer State Park
1843 S. Tamiami Trail
Osprey, FL 34229
(941) 483-5956
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