Bradenton area campgrounds offer waterfront camping near Tampa Bay and along rivers in the Gulf Coast region. Most facilities provide water and electric hookups at sites ranging from 30-50 feet. Summer temperatures routinely climb above 90°F with high humidity from May through September, creating challenging conditions for tent campers without proper shade.
What to do
Water activities at Little Manatee: Little Manatee River State Park Campground provides access to kayaking opportunities with wildlife viewing potential. "We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees," reports Joe R., who visited the park with his family and enjoyed taking an inflatable raft out on the water.
Historical explorations: At Fort De Soto Campground, visitors can explore military installations while enjoying coastal views. "The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" writes Brennan H.
Biking on nearby trails: Oscar Scherer State Park Campground connects to the Legacy Trail, a paved 10-mile multi-use path. "Park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking. Multiple stops along the way but mostly in full sun," notes Rachel G.
Wildlife spotting: Opportunities abound for viewing native Florida species. "Tons of great hiking & even some elevated bridges for site seeing. Tons of gators, birds, deer etc," reports Amanda W. about Palmetto Ridge Campground at Myakka River State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront site privacy: Little Manatee River State Park Campground offers secluded sites with natural buffers. "Clean, well organized and well kept facilities and staff," notes Ronald H., who appreciated "the privacy of the nature between every campsite along those areas for bigger rigs."
Swimming options: Several parks offer freshwater swimming areas when Gulf temperatures or red tide make beaches less appealing. "There is a small beach/swimming area which was great cause it's hot!!" says Rachel G. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
Spacious sites: Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park provides larger sites for those needing room to spread out. "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic. I would say the vegetation gives semi privacy but they aren't on top of each other so it's not like you're looking right at your neighbor," notes Amanda W.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept restroom buildings. "Bathhouse is nice and laundry facility appears clean," states Amanda W. about Myakka River's facilities, while Patti D. notes Little Manatee has a "clean dump station" for RVs.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for extreme heat. "We had a pretty open site. Some sites have more trees and shade than others. Temps can be warm. It was in the 90s° the week we camped," warns Jill K. about Lake Manatee State Park Campground.
Insect populations: E.G. Simmons Regional Park experiences significant insect activity, particularly at dusk. "You really cannot stay outside at dusk. Citronella torches, spray, fans, Avon skin so soft...none of these work for the no see-ums," cautions Christy C.
Wildlife encounters: Gator sightings are common at many parks, requiring extra vigilance with children and pets. "Went to drain the tanks yesterday morning and a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please," warns Jenelle J. at Myakka River.
Seasonal booking challenges: State parks fill quickly during winter months. "Park rangers were great. We were lucky to grab a weekend spot thanks to a snowbird cancellation," reports Amy P. about Lake Manatee State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Bradenton feature recreational facilities for children. "There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," notes Joe R. about Fort De Soto.
Child-friendly bike routes: Winter Quarters Manatee offers paved roads suitable for younger riders. "Very convenient location and close to Walmart and Costco. We will definitely be back!" writes Brandi M., highlighting the camp's accessibility for family supplies.
Swimming options for different ages: Several parks feature swimming areas with varying depths. "There is a public swim area and picnic area. Lots of paved roads which was great for biking," notes Bran P. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Weekend vs. weekday crowds: Timing your visit can significantly impact your experience. "During the week its very quiet there yet on Fridays it packs in and Sunday it clears out again," observes B M. about E.G. Simmons.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Pet-friendly camping near Bradenton offers various site configurations. "The sites at the Winter Quarters Manatee lead Bradenton options for pets, featuring spacious sites with ample space for dog activities," states Jean M., who recommends the park's "2 heated pools and a spa."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setup. "The electrical (30 amp and 50 amp) was farther back than the water, which wasn't a huge deal but might be inconvenient for some," notes Karen about Winter Quarters Manatee.
Specialized pet facilities: Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort provides convenient access to pet-friendly areas. "Very close to beaches, Anna Marie Island, Sarasota, and Tampa," notes Jean M., while Lorena B. appreciates its location "walkable to restaurants, a short drive or bike ride to beaches."
Level sites: Most RV parks offer paved or stabilized parking areas. "Sites are paved and level but small," observes George L. about Buttonwood Inlet, adding that "location is great, close to Anna Maria Island and Cortez restaurants."
