Nathan Benderson Park

Located in Sarasota, Fla., Nathan Benderson Park (NBP) is a unique 600-acre community park that includes North America’s premier 2,000-meter sprint rowing course and a regatta center.

One of a handful of sites in the United States identified as having all of the natural attributes that make up a world-class rowing and recreational facility, Nathan Benderson Park began hosting organized regatta competitions in 2009.

Park History

Situated just west of Interstate 75 in tropically beautiful Sarasota, Fla., Nathan Benderson Park is a unique 600-acre community park providing the public access to a picturesque 400-acre lake and an exciting world of recreational pursuits.

Park Loop

The loop around Nathan Benderson Park is measured at just more than 3.4 miles and is often used for 5K races.

Park Operations

Nathan Benderson Park is open to the public and offers year-round recreational opportunities for all ages. Challenge your stamina with a walk, jog, or ride on our neatly manicured trails. Take to the water with a canoe, rowboat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Enjoy an afternoon picnic with a picturesque backdrop of pristine natural beauty. Or become a spectator to a thrilling international championship event.

• Boat ramp for small, non-motor watercraft, rowboats and kayaks
• Running/biking trail encircling the picturesque 400-acre lake
• A full calendar of championship events, community causes and more
• Ample parking
• Picnic areas
• World class facilities
• Pet friendly

Prohibited Items and Activities

• Glass containers
• Littering or dumping
• Fishing from docks
• Swimming (without permit)
• Soliciting or promotion of commercial enterprise (without permit)
• Open fires
• Feeding wildlife

Offenders may be fined or prosecuted under Sarasota County ordinances.

Organized group activities in the park require park permits; please call 941-358-7275 and speak to our events staff.

Travel Information

Nathan Benderson Park is situated west of Interstate 75 and east of The Meadows residential community. The Cattlemen Road extension provides access to the park from Fruitville Road and University Parkway.

Major Access Roads: Interstate 75 (north-south) and U.S. 41 (north-south)

Park Hours

SANCA Mission & Priorities

Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates Inc. (SANCA) is a not-for-profit 501c3 business created to manage Nathan Benderson Park, a community/public asset and world-class multi-use sports venue. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for our community and be an economic generator for our region.