Programs at Oscar Scherer State Park
Throughout the year, during daylight and evening hours, there is always something to do at Oscar Scherer. Some programs are organized by OSSP staff, some by the FOSP, and some by a collaboration of the park, the friends and other third party groups.
- Programs are free for registered campers and day visitors with park entrance fee
- Please click this link to view our latest EVENTS AND PROGRAMS brochure.
- Many programs take place in specific areas of the park or in and around the Nature Center. In the case of inclement weather some programs maybe moved into the Nature Center, be warned space is then limited!
- Please remember that while the park is pet friendly, dogs are not allowed inside the Nature Center
Pancake Breakfast
December to March
Third Thursdays 8:00am to 10:00am
Dec 18th, Jan 15th, Feb 19th, Mar 19th
Nature Center
Enjoy a breakfast of pancakes, sausage, tea, coffee, and juice.
A Park Ranger will be available from 8:30am to 9:00am for questions, information, or a friendly chat.
$10.00/adult, $5.00/child (12 & under). Park entry fees apply. CASH ONLY, PLEASE!
Audubon Society Guided Bird Walk
December to March
Every Thursday 8:30am – 10:00am
Meet at the Nature Center
Free for registered campers or with park entrance fee
- Sarasota & Venice Area Audubon Society knowledgeable volunteers will be providing guided bird walks along some of the park trails.
- You will have the opportunity to see and hear some of the birds that pass through Oscar Scherer or live here as permanent residents.
- Learn what the park does to help support the resources for these birds and other wildlife.
- Supportive footwear, water, bug spray, sunscreen, hats, camera & binoculars are recommended. Pets are not allowed on these guided walks.
Critter Crafts for kids
Learn about the plants and animals at Oscar Scherer by making critter crafts. Materials are provided.
Year-round • Saturdays 10:00am to 11:00am • Nature Center.
Free for registered campers or with park entrance fee
Junior Ranger Program
Learn what it takes to become a Junior Ranger and work on your Junior Ranger CORE or passport activities!
December to March
Saturdays 10am to 11am
Meet at the Nature Center
Free for registered campers or with park entrance fee
Eagle Viewing
Join the weekly eagle watch and see how our pair of nesting bald eagles is doing. High-powered scope and trail maps are provided. Comfortable shoes, camera and binoculars are suggested.
Group meets where the Green Trail meets the campground between sites 62 and 63
December to March • Sundays • 9:00am to 11:00am • Green Trail
Free for registered campers or with park entrance fee
Coffee Social
Wake up with tea or coffee, and meet your fellow campers.
December to March • Tuesday • 8:30am to 9:00am • Nature Center
Free for registered campers or with park entrance fee, but donations appreciated
Tram Tours
Take a tour around the park and learn about the plants, animals and park history, starting at the Nature Center.
December to March • Every Saturday 1:30pm
$5 per person; PLEASE NOTE – SPACE IS LIMITED,
Camping or park entrance fee required
Ranger’s Choice Guided Hike
Explore the park with a ranger, on a trail and topic of their choice.
December to March • Friday • 9:00am to 10:00am • Meet outside Nature Center
Free with camping or park entrance fee