Paddling the Braden River and Linger Lodge

In late February a several Myakka River State Park Volunteers took a paddle on the Braden River. Our launch point was the Linger Lodge which boasts a campground, RV park, canoe/kayak launch, and a fine restaurant. Every since arriving in the area we had heard, “You must visit the Linger Lodge.” Thus it took little persuasion from Ellen and Dave to make this trip. 

Five of us set in on a slightly overcast but warm day, the aforementioned Ellen and Dave along with Tom in kayaks and Bill and I in our trusty canoe. It was a nice 4-5 mile paddle along the gently moving river which revealed the typical southwest Florida scenery of oaks, marshes, wading birds, and a few homes.

From Linger Lodge website

At the conclusion of this trip we dined at the lodge. Luckily we returned around 11:15 AM and ready by 11:30 when they opened because the lodge was packed by 11:50 AM. The menu revealed the typicalsouthwest Florida selection and then some: local fish, gator stew, seafood gumbo, soup, salads, burgers, home-made potato chips, and sweet tea. Of course there were items created specifically for the lodge.  

I should mention the Road-Kill Menu which is presented with a straight face but upon reading the menu you quickly realize this is all in jest.  The menu was a result of the first owner's love of the unusual and the taxidermy collection.

From Linger Lodge website

A little history on the lodge: 

Linger Lodge began as a campground in 1945. Frank and Elaine Gamsky came down from Milwaukee, Wisconsin with their family and purchased Linger Lodge in 1968. The Lodge features a few rare and unusual "Florida Animals" among its collection. The Jackalope sits in its case not far from a Blue Billed Ortholock. The Alaskan Fur Fish is also on display. Frank was an avid animal lover, and promotes the protection of animals as one of our most important natural resources.

The ambiance matches the food and service... excellent. So take the advice we were given, “You must visit the Linger Lodge.”