Myakka River flows through El Jobean, Florida, which sits at an elevation of just 10 feet above sea level in Charlotte County. The subtropical climate creates ideal cabin camping conditions from October through April when temperatures range from 50-80°F with lower humidity. Summer months bring temperatures in the 90s with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September.
What to do
Primitive camping options: Myakka River State Park offers backcountry sites requiring hikes ranging from 2 to 14 miles. According to a camper, "They have great primitive sites, with hikes that vary from 2 miles to 14 miles to camp sites. Beware of heat, bring plenty of water. Don't depend on water pumps."
Wildlife viewing areas: Camp Venice Retreat provides direct access to observe local wildlife. "Easy river access. Paddle the Myakka River in both directions. Plenty of wildlife - and gaters!. No worries, they'll leave you alone if you don't bother them," notes one visitor.
Nature preserve access: The wilderness preserve section of Myakka River State Park requires a special permit obtained at the ranger station. A visitor explains, "After hearing of the wilderness preserve we decided to go ahead and get the permit. You drive about a mile down the road from the main state park entrance to find the wilderness preserve entrance which is code protected."
What campers like
Diverse ecosystem exploration: Oscar Scherer State Park provides numerous trails through varied Florida landscapes. "The park has great trails for hiking and bike riding. We saw (from a distance) a bald eagle's nest, as well as two juvenile eagles fighting in flight - both from the trails," shares one camper.
Water activities: Fishing opportunities directly from cabin sites are available at some locations. A visitor to The Bohemian Hideaway reports, "We had a great time at this private camp spot in their GlamPing tent. We fished all day right from our site and took advantage of the extra rentals they had, kayaks and outdoor movie."
Natural swimming options: Several parks offer swimming areas as an alternative to beach trips. One camper at Oscar Scherer State Park noted, "Park has mostly paved roads, a nice picnic area, trails, and some fishing spots. Park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail."
What you should know
Seasonal closures and conditions: During dry periods, some water activities may be unavailable. A recent visitor to Myakka River State Park in 2024 reported, "No boat tours as the river is low. No Bird walkway or Canopy walk."
Wildlife safety protocols: Alligators are common in this region and require caution. One camper warned, "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."
Flooding potential: Some cabins and camping areas may experience flooding issues during rainy seasons. A visitor to Ramblers Rest mentioned, "We stayed here in our 40' class A for about 2 months in August & September 2019... The only complaints I have is that when it rains frequently (summer months) the ground tends to become saturated with water. Many times we had 2" plus of standing water outside of our RV."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wildlife viewing spots: Myakka River State Park offers multiple ways to observe wildlife safely with children. "We can't imagine going to another Florida State Park and seeing more of nature than we did here. While riding our bikes along Park and North Drive... it was a Florida safari! I've never seen so many alligators in the wild."
Pool availability: Several cabin sites offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water bodies. A visitor to Camp Venice Retreat observed, "Nice pool, laundry and bathrooms. Very quiet. Snook Haven restaurant next door is flat out awesome with twice daily entertainment at noon and 5pm most days."
Kid-friendly cabin options: For families seeking rustic but comfortable accommodations near El Jobean, cabin options vary widely. A camper at Oscar Scherer State Park reported, "Our 6 yo son loved that we felt safe enough that he could ride his bike around the camp ground to play with the other campers. There are play areas for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Encore Harbor Lakes offers both cabin and RV options but site placement varies. One RVer noted, "They wedged us into a spot between two permanent trailers which was disappointing, especially since there were open spots available."
Road condition warnings: Access roads to some cabin locations may present challenges. A camper at Camp Venice Retreat advised, "Just a couple of minor issues are the road going in has some potholes and lots of low hanging tree branches. Drive slow and stay in the middle if you can."
Utility placement details: Many cabins near El Jobean have unusual utility layouts. An Oscar Scherer State Park visitor warned, "The electric hookup is in its normal spot, but be aware that the water is in the woods on the opposite side (one pedestal feeding two sites). Make sure to bring a longer hose, or park closer to the water than electric."
