Curry Creek Preserve

This 81-acre preserve, purchased in 2002 through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program, is named after the Curry Family, early pioneers that settled the area. In addition to the natural areas protected within the preserve, Sarasota County Public Works maintains a 19-acre tidal marsh and tidal swamp restoration site just north of the creek.

While walking along the preserve’s trails, visitors may see a variety of native habitats including mangrove forests, tidal marshes, scrub and pine flatwoods. Pond apple trees, a rarity in Sarasota County, can be found in forested areas upstream along the creek. Visitors may also encounter a variety of wildlife species such as gopher tortoises, alligators, river otters, eastern indigo snakes and an assortment of wading birds such as the roseate spoonbill and wood stork.

Most of the trails are primitive and rated easy. The trails are unpaved but accessible for most visitors. Water, sun block, insect repellant, a rain jacket and sturdy shoes are recommended for hiking. Trails may be flooded during the summer months and after extended periods of heavy rainfall.
A kayak launch is located along the creek, near the preserve’s west entrance.
The preserve has limited parking and is accessible via a walk-thru gate.