Is there a fee to enter the park?
There is no admission to enter the park. During special events, such as rowing regattas and Fireworks on the Lake, there is special pricing to park. Please check these events on our calendar for more information.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome on a six-foot leash. Please clean up after your pet.
What other wildlife can you find at the park?
At the park you can find plenty of wildlife. Birds are plentiful. Visit the Sarasota Audubon Society to learn more about birds that can be spotted. Fish such as crappie, bass and blue gill are plentiful in the lake. There is also wildlife to watch out for such as snakes and alligators. If you spot an alligator, please let us know by emailing us at info@nathanbendersonpark.org or calling 941-358-7275.
Can I rent the park for a 5K walk, run, regatta or private party?
Yes, we would love to host your 5K walk, run, or regatta! We also offer rental space in our Benderson Family Finish Tower and our Pavilion for private events. Please reach out to us booking@nathanbendersonpark.org for more information, or submit your event inquiry here to check date availability and rates.
Can I swim in the lake?
Swimming in the lake is only allowed during special events such as sanctioned triathlons and swimming events.
Are kayaks and standup paddleboards permitted on the lake?
Yes, you are permitted to bring in a kayak or SUP and enjoy the lake. You can launch from the beach area. Please note that the lake may be closed due to a special event or practice. Please check our events calendar and be mindful of others out on the water.
What is the average temperature of the lake?
- March – October: 76 degrees
- October – March: 65 degrees
Are there bathrooms?
Yes, we have several public bathrooms conveniently located throughout the park.
Can I use electric motors on a boat in the lake?
No. Powered boats are not permitted unless for official park operations or during training and special events.
Where are park offices located?
We have moved! Our new offices are located in the Benderson Family Finish Tower and open Monday-Friday from 8:30am-4:00pm. Offices are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, MLK Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day & Labor Day. Offices may close early on the eve of holidays or due to weather-related emergencies. To check if the office is open, please call our main number at 941-358-7275.
- Third Floor: Event & Program Offices
- Fourth Floor: Administrative Offices (Accounting, Sales, Marketing, Operations)
- Staff Contact list
Our Facilities office and the Sarasota Crew office are located in the gray trailer next to the launch and recovery platforms. Here you can obtain keys to reserved launch boats and contracted repair service providers can report to meet with our facilities manager.
What are the hours of the park?
The park is open 6am-6pm from mid-November to mid-March and 6am-8pm from mid-March to mid-November. The change to the hours coincides with daylight savings time each year.
What should I do if I accidentally stay at the park past closing and the gates are locked?
We have security at the park after hours. They are actively patrolling all areas both on foot and in their vehicles. You may flag them down or can contact the company, OSA security, via their Site Lead at 941-896-1367. You may also call to report an after hours safety concern. Should you have an emergency or witness an emergency situation in or around the park, please call 911.
Do you have a lost & found?
Yes, please contact us at info@nathanbendersonpark.org or call 941-358-7275 to inquire about lost and found items, or bring them to the staff offices on the 4th Floor of the Finish Tower between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Looking for a lost item? You can stop by the office, email us or message us on Facebook & Instagram.
Can I fish at the Park?
Yes, fishing is allowed at the park but only in designated areas. Fishing is permitted off the shores of the west bank, south shore and east bank. Fishing is not allowed on the Island and any of the docks for the safety of the rowers and paddlers.
Can I cook food in the park?
No. Open fires or cooking of food are prohibited.
