Best Campgrounds near Murdock, FL

Camping near Murdock, Florida encompasses a mix of state parks, private RV resorts, and established campgrounds within Florida's subtropical Gulf Coast region. Myakka River State Park, located approximately 20 miles northeast of Murdock, stands as one of the area's premier natural destinations with three distinct camping areas: Palmetto Ridge, Old Prairie, and Big Flats. Oscar Scherer State Park in nearby Osprey offers additional state-managed camping options, while private facilities like Encore Harbor Lakes in Port Charlotte provide more amenity-rich alternatives. As one camper noted, "Myakka is perhaps the most ecologically diverse state park in Florida, with outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities."

Most campgrounds in the Murdock area remain open year-round, though seasonal considerations significantly impact the camping experience. Summer months (June through September) bring intense heat, humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be particularly problematic during this period. Winter (November through March) offers milder temperatures and reduced insect activity, making it the peak camping season. Reservations during winter months are essential and often fill 11 months in advance, especially at state parks. Hurricane season (June through November) occasionally necessitates campground closures, with some facilities in low-lying areas subject to flooding after heavy rains.

The camping options near Murdock cater to various preferences and equipment types. State parks like Myakka River offer a range of experiences from primitive hike-in sites to full-hookup RV camping. According to visitor reviews, the Palmetto Ridge campground at Myakka River State Park features full hookups designed primarily for larger RVs, while Old Prairie provides a more rustic experience better suited for smaller trailers and tents. Private RV resorts typically offer more amenities but less privacy between sites. Cell service varies by location and provider, with most developed campgrounds maintaining adequate coverage. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with alligators, deer, and numerous bird species commonly spotted in the state parks.

Best Camping Sites Near Murdock, Florida (148)

    1. Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park

    38 Reviews
    Osprey, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 361-6511

    $26 / night

    "Hidden cabins, hiking, off-road biking, boating, wildlife...so much beauty and activities to enjoy in this park! The cabins are off the main path, tucked away and private."

    "One of the largest state parks in Florida. This great Park has full and partial hook ups for all styles of camping to include hammock camping."

    2. Oscar Scherer State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Osprey, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 483-5956

    $26 / night

    "Like all the Florida state parks, the campground is well-maintained and clean. Lots of trails to explore, easy to launch my kayak from near my campsite."

    "Located just outside of Sarasota and on the edge of Nokomis. Very “old Florida” with lots of palm hammocks and scrub oaks. Cant say."

    3. Encore Harbor Lakes

    4 Reviews
    El Jobean, FL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We came back to Florida to retrive our car after a 3 month stay in New England. This campground was right down the road from where we needed to conduct our business."

    "Had to have a RV park nearby and called, and booked a site within 10 minutes. Very pleased with the accommodations. Pool was great, neighbors were friendly and very helpful."

    4. Camp Venice Retreat

    8 Reviews
    Venice, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 488-0850

    "Easy access to Vince and the great Legacy Bike trail. Beaches and parking are free."

    "friendly staff on site. very nice sites on river inlet with perfectly placed utilities. bet clean restrooms and showers within a brief walk from every site. didn’t use pool but looked very clean and well"

    5. Peace River Campground

    25 Reviews
    Arcadia, FL
    22 miles
    Website

    $16 - $80 / night

    "ThisThis is a great Campground just outside of Arcadia Florida. It has ATV trails and fossilized shark tooth hunting. it has a Wilderness Area as well as developed the campground area."

    "This campground was easy to get to and has lots to do near by. There is the town of Arcadia nearby with local history and restaurants if you feel like a hot meal on a rainy night."

    6. Encore Ramblers Rest

    6 Reviews
    Venice, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "First of all the location, if you like to kayak, this is the place for you. Right on the river. Very nice."

    "Many times we had 2” plus of standing water outside of our RV (we were on “Raccoon Road”). Also, the electrical and water connections needed maintenance while we were there. They were very worn out."

    7. Myakka River Motorcoach Resort

    2 Reviews
    El Jobean, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 740-2599

    "Close to everything, multiple beaches 20 minutes away,  great shopping and restaurants are close by.  Extremely friendly owners, they treat renters like members of their family.  "

    8. Flying A Campground — Myakka State Forest

    4 Reviews
    El Jobean, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 398-3410

    $9 / night

    "Parking is away from campsites."

    "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 (firewood also available there)."

    9. Encore Riverside

    4 Reviews
    Port Charlotte, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Close to restaurants and shopping, but in a very private area."

    10. Creekside RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Punta Gorda, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 833-3334

    "Lots of grass and trees all around.  Big sites with plenty of room between other campers.  Wide, paver parking with full hook ups.  Big and clean showers and restrooms.  Nice pool and hot tub.  "

    "Very nice bathhouses with large, walk in showers. The clubhouse was closed due to COVID but the pool and hot tub were open and very nice. Good space between sites."

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Showing results 1-10 of 148 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Murdock, FL

600 Reviews of 148 Murdock Campgrounds



Guide to Murdock

Camping near Murdock, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the Beaches: Many campgrounds are close to stunning beaches. For instance, Oscar Scherer State Park Campground is right in the middle of at least four different beaches, making it a great spot for sunbathing and swimming. One camper mentioned, "The location of this campground is right in the middle of at least 4 different beaches."
  • Wildlife Watching: If you love nature, head to Myakka River State Park. Campers have spotted alligators, deer, and wild turkeys. One visitor shared, "It's quiet, and there's plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys."
  • Hiking and Biking: Trails abound in the area. At Lake Manatee State Park Campground, you can enjoy basic sand-based hikes. A reviewer noted, "Options for basic, sand-based hikes. Great views from the lake."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Manatee State Park Campground, don’t have electric hookups. A camper pointed out, "It does not have full hookups."
  • Noise Levels: Be aware of nearby noise. At Peace River Campground, one camper warned, "Getting to the wilderness area can be a bit challenging if you don’t have 4 wheel drive as the trails that lead you there are comprised of Sugar Sand."
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a draw, it can also be a concern. A visitor at Cayo Costa State Park Campground cautioned, "If you camp here take precautions and know that rats will chew through any bag that contains food."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Sun N Fun RV Resort offers a giant pool and fun activities. One family said, "The kids enjoyed the slide (limited hours…ask ahead), and the warm pool was refreshing."
  • Check for Clean Facilities: Families appreciate clean bathrooms. A camper at Lake Manatee State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathhouses were always clean in the AM and early PM."
  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places that allow pets and have picnic areas. At Gulf Beach Campground, a visitor noted, "Very clean campground with a nice picnic area and grills that is just steps to the beach!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA mentioned, "The lot was a tight squeeze so if you’re not an experienced driver, you may want to request a different lot selection."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have full hookups. At W.P. Franklin N, a camper noted, "The lack of sewer at each site this campground is a nice little gem in SW Florida."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Florida can be hot and humid. A visitor at Sun N Fun RV Resort said, "Bugs were at their peak. No complaints, easy contact less check in and check out!"

Camping near Murdock, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Murdock, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Murdock, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 148 campgrounds and RV parks near Murdock, FL and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Murdock, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Murdock, FL is Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 38 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Murdock, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Murdock, FL.

What parks are near Murdock, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Murdock, FL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.