Emerson Point Preserve is situated on the West end of Snead island on the North shore of the Manatee river with Terra Ceia Bay to the north. It offers a network of hiking and kayak trails to experience a wide variety of coastal Florida wildlife and habitats. Ancient and historic remains of its inhabitants are accessible and well interpreted to give a sense of what life in Manatee County was like prior to and during its settlement.
Hours
Open daily 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset.- Boardwalk
- Canoe and Kayak Launch
- Dock
- Education Area - Outdoors
- Fishing Access
- Grills
- Historic Building
- Outlooks and Observation Towers
- Parking
- Pavillion Rental
- Picnic areas
- Picnic Shelter
- Picnic Tables
- Pier
- Pond
- Restrooms
- Trash Receptacles
- Walking Trail
- Water Fountains
- Wildlife viewing areas
John "JP" McDonald Memorial Pavilion
Location Details
Near the water at the first shell drivewayHours
Open daily while the park is open, from sunrise to sunset.
Covered pavilions that you can rent out for special events.
Emerson Point Manatee River Canoe/Kayak Launch
Location Details
The launch site is the beach located at the western end of the preserve. The launch at this site provides access to the mouth of the Manatee River and Terra Ceia Bay.
Paddle the Manatee River and Terra Ceia Bay from Emerson Point.
Visitor Center
Hours
Hours vary by volunteer staff availability.
The visitor center is open when volunteers are available.
Emerson Point Preserve Beach Pavilion
Location Details
At the westernmost tip of the park, at the end of 17 St WHours
Open daily while the park is open, from sunrise to sunset
Covered pavilions with beach access that you can rent out for special events.
Emerson Point Mangrove Canoe/Kayak Launch
Location Details
Located approximately 6/10 of a mile from the entrance of Emerson Point.
This launch has a wooden dock and the Blueway Trail that meanders through mangrove tunnels until you reach Terra Ceia Bay
Fishing Dock
Hours
Available daily while the park is open, from sunrise to sunset
There are a number of docks along the walking trails where you can sit and enjoy nature or choose to fish. Please no cast netting.