Red Bug Slough Preserve

This 72-acre preserve was purchased in 2000 and 2001 through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program with funding assistance provided by Florida Communities Trust. Red Bug Slough Preserve is a remnant piece of natural Florida nestled in the midst of suburban Sarasota. The preserve has several miles of hiking trails, a small playground, picnic shelters and a fishing dock. The hiking trails are unpaved but accessible for most visitors. Some trails may flood after heavy rainfall and several trails may be wet year-round where they cross creeks and ditches. The preserve has limited parking and a walk-thru gate near the Beneva Road entrance and is accessible on foot or by bicycle at several other walk-thru entrances. Leashed pets are permitted on trails and in public use areas. For more information about Red Bug Slough Preserve, call 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources.