Emerson Point Preserve

Where the Manatee River meets the Gulf of Mexico, Emerson Point Preserve protects a significant archeological site: the Portavent Mound. More than 150’ long and 80’ wide, this artificial flat-topped hill shaded by ancient live oaks is one of the oldest temple mounds in Florida, more than 1,000 years old, built by the ancestors of the Timucua. In more modern times, early Florida pioneers built a homestead atop the hill.

Caretaking an island overrun with invasive exotics like Brazilian Pepper is no easy task. And thus the Restoration Trail: a multi-use path that showcases the fine work done by Manatee County to restore this barrier island to appropriate coastal habitats. Where the Restoration Trail ends, cross the park road to access the Terra Ceia Trail, a winding path through the mangrove forests lining Terra Ceia Bay. There are overlooks and an observation tower to provide a view of the bay and in the distance, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.