Camping near El Jobean offers diverse outdoor experiences along Florida's subtropical Gulf Coast. With an average elevation of less than 10 feet above sea level, these low-lying camping areas require careful site selection during summer's rainy season when standing water can accumulate quickly. Water-based activities dominate the camping experience, with numerous access points to the Myakka River and surrounding waterways.
What to do
Kayak the Myakka River: Launch directly from Camp Venice Retreat for excellent wildlife viewing. "Easy river access. Paddle the Myakka River in both directions. Plenty of wildlife - and gaters!" notes a visitor, highlighting the accessible paddling options from riverside campsites.
Hike forest trails: Myakka River State Park offers 39 miles of hiking trails through canopied forest areas. A camper explains, "You will have 39 miles of hiking trails and off road/mountain biking at your pleasure. We bike with hybrid specialized bikes and had no problems off road."
Explore barrier islands: Cayo Costa State Park Campground provides a unique island camping experience accessible only by ferry or private boat. "We arrived at the gate! After hearing of the wilderness preserve we decided to go ahead and get the permit... After driving back to the parking area, we realized we had the 600 acres to ourselves," reports one visitor who explored the island's natural areas.
What campers like
Heated pool access: Many campgrounds near El Jobean offer maintained pool facilities. At Creekside RV Resort, campers appreciate "Nice pool and hot tub. Big sites with plenty of room between other campers. Wide, paver parking with full hook ups."
Wildlife viewing: The Myakka River corridor provides exceptional bird and reptile watching opportunities. One camper at Myakka River State Park observed, "Tons of gators, birds, deer etc. There is also a scenic drive in the park, a 'fisherman's loop' & a few picnic areas."
Bike-friendly areas: The Legacy Trail offers paved cycling access throughout the region. "The park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking," notes a visitor at Oscar Scherer State Park.
What you should know
Limited primitive facilities: Basic campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Flying A Campground, "All sites have a fire ring and picnic table. There are vault toilets available in the loop and there is a potable water spigot at the nearby ranger station."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, with some using gate codes for access. "The campground is gated (you get the lock code when you reserve a site). Note that this campground requires reservations," explains a camper at Flying A Campground.
Bug preparation essential: Camp Venice Retreat and other riverside locations experience significant insect activity, particularly at dawn and dusk. At Cayo Costa, a camper advises, "WHATEVER YOU DO BRING BUG PROTECTION! I brought sawyers big lotion and 2 thermacell bug repellents and in 24 hours got 2 bug bites!"
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas for safer water access. Oscar Scherer State Park offers "a small beach/swimming area which was great cause it's hot!!"
Spacious sites: Select campgrounds with room for kids to play. "Site #20 which in my opinion was the best site out of all of them... secluded with lots of privacy and a view of the creek that runs through the campground!" recommends a visitor at Oscar Scherer.
Wildlife education opportunities: Myakka River Motorcoach Resort provides riverside wildlife viewing from a safe distance. "The views were gorgeous and the beauty was captivating," notes one visitor, while others appreciate the "Boardwalk along the river, fishing pier, kayak launch" that allow for nature observation without disturbing habitats.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many parks accommodate larger vehicles but require navigation skills. At Myakka River Motorcoach Resort, "Sites are typically 70' x 50'. Large roads easy access."
Utility placement awareness: Hookups may have unusual positioning at some campgrounds. At Oscar Scherer, one RVer warns, "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."
Seasonal crowding: Winter months bring significantly higher occupancy rates to the El Jobean area. A Creekside RV Resort visitor noted they use it as their "winter 'home'. We stay 4 months here. Large paved sites with paver patios the length of the site. Most sites are ~60' or longer."
