Oleta River State Park

Introduction of Oleta River State Park

Oleta River State Park, now Florida’s largest urban state park, was a neglected former development site for many years. The land was purchased by the State of Florida in 1981 with the intention of restoring it to its natural state for the benefit of Florida residents. Despite the fact that the park has improved the ecological health of the Miami area, it is still threatened by invasive plant and animal species.

The Oleta River, designated a “Florida Outstanding Waterway,” is Miami-Dade County’s only remaining natural river. Tequesta Indians established settlements along the river thousands of years ago, and by the 1800s, European settlers referred to it as Big Snake Creek. Developers renamed the waterway the Oleta River in 1922.

Since 2012, MUVE and its volunteers have been working to restore tropical hardwood forests throughout the park.

Oleta River State Park Camping

For organised youth groups of 18 and under, the primitive group camping area is available. For every ten youth campers, one chaperone is required.

Each of the three primitive campsites can accommodate 30 campers. Each site has two tables, a fire circle, a restroom, and a cold-water shower. The primitive camp has no electricity. The primitive group camps can share a community pavilion. The primitive group camp does not allow pets. On the day of arrival, a group representative must check in by 5 p.m.

Oleta River State Park Activities

Kayaking

Choose a kayaking adventure to discover what makes Miami’s environment so unique. Oleta rents kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards, which are ideal for exploring the river estuary’s flat, calm waters. This ecosystem, which is lined with mangrove trees, is critical nesting and feeding habitat for the majority of Florida’s juvenile fish and birds. Look for tiny black crabs scurrying along the mangrove roots, wading birds such as herons, egrets, and ibises, and mangrove snapper, manatees, and other marine life.

Mountain Biking

Oleta is one of Miami’s most popular mountain biking destinations, with ten miles of trails ranging from beginner to expert. There are a variety of paved and dirt trails available, as well as a few courses designed for dirt bike-style riding with jumps for tricks. Bring your own bike or rent one from the onsite vendor, who has everything from mountain bikes to cruisers and children’s bikes for all skill levels.

Bicycling

The intermediate and advanced mountain bike trails at Oleta River State Park total more than ten miles. There are 4 miles of novice trails and 3 miles of paved trail for beginners. The paved trail is also excellent for inline skating. Helmets are strongly recommended for all cyclists, and helmets are required by Florida law for cyclists aged 16 and under.

Bikes can be rented from the Oleta River Outdoor Center, our concessionaire.

• Bike Rental Services and Prices in Florida Bicycle Trails – A Guide to Florida’s Top Paved and Off-Road Trails
• Bike Rental Services and Prices in Florida Bicycle Trails – A Guide to Florida’s Top Paved and Off-Road Trails

Wildlife Viewing

This 1,000-acre oasis in the shadow of Miami is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Keep an eye out for wading birds such as great blue herons and roseate spoonbills. Keep an eye out for dolphins or manatees in the waters near the park.

Paddling

At Oleta, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities. The most difficult decision will be deciding whether to head for the calm waters of Biscayne Bay, explore mangrove trails, or paddle on the Oleta River.

Location

Parking

Parking is available throughout the park at various locations.

Public Transport

Public Transport is not available