Murdock's camping options extend beyond state parks to include several waterfront primitive sites and private RV resorts within a 25-mile radius. The region averages 266 sunny days per year with annual rainfall of 51 inches, supporting a diverse subtropical ecosystem. Campsite access in this part of Florida ranges from road-accessible locations to paddle-in spots along the Peace and Myakka Rivers.
What to do
Kayak South Creek: Launch directly from sites at Camp Venice Retreat, where paddlers can explore the Myakka River system. "The location was lovely... The heated pool was a pleasant amenity," notes reviewer Annette S., who enjoyed balancing water activities with resort amenities.
Hunt for fossils: Shark teeth and other prehistoric finds attract collectors to the Peace River area. One visitor at Peace River Campground reported: "This park seems to flood and have limited sewer sites but is a great place to find Shark teeth and other fossils. I once had to abandon my Tilapia as the alligator appeared to want it more than me!"
Explore hiking trails: The region offers numerous well-maintained paths through subtropical terrain. A Myakka River State Park camper shared: "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... Fortunately, there is lots of shade even while hiking due to the canopy trees."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers consistently mention diverse animal sightings. At Palmetto Ridge Campground, a visitor recounted: "There we saw tons of alligators birds and wildlife! A great piece of raw Florida!" Another 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."
Spacious waterfront sites: Private sites with water views rank high among visitor preferences. At Camp Venice Retreat, one reviewer described the experience: "We stayed at the tent sites and they are under a nice canopy of trees with water and electric. The staff is awesome, everyone was super friendly, they had clean facilities, the nature trail was awesome to take our dog on walks down."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience, several campgrounds offer remote options. "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," advises a Myakka River State Park visitor.
What you should know
Summer heat precautions: The subtropical climate requires careful planning. A reviewer at Myakka notes: "We were here in July. Fortunately, there is lots of shade even while hiking due to the canopy trees and this kept things cooler during in the summer. We did not have a problem with biting bugs until nightfall."
Road conditions vary: Access to some campgrounds requires navigation of unpaved roads. At Flying A Campground, a camper described: "Nice open area with some trees and lots of palm tree bushes. Well maintained white dirt road. Raccoons stalk u at night lol. Parking is away from campsites."
Reservation requirements: Most campsites near Murdock need advance booking. "Note that this campground requires reservations," explains an Ari A. about Flying A Campground, adding, "The campground is gated (you get the lock code when you reserve a site)."
Seasonal crowd variations: Local campgrounds change character throughout the year. At Oscar Scherer State Park, one camper observed: "OF NOTE: Of all the state parks we have visited, this had the most unfriendly group of campers we have ever encountered... Perhaps it's because this isn't your normal group of happy wanderers... More like COVID refugees or visitors doing 'Florida on the Cheap.'"
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated recreation areas: Families benefit from organized activities and play spaces. At Oscar Scherer State Park, a parent noted: "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."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds cater to motorized recreation. At Peace River Campground, one visitor warned: "Loud vehicles at all times goin' real fast with shiny lights and various Toby Keith songs bumpin' (no shade on Toby Keith, but I'd rather not hear Red Solo Cup at 1am when I'm camping)."
Check site privacy: Family camping benefits from buffer zones between sites. A camper at Oscar Scherer advised: "I highly value privacy and enjoying my time outside. Lots of activities let you do that. Hiking, biking trails, canoeing, kayaking, swimming...all easily reachable."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Many RVers emphasize the importance of accurate site information. At Creekside RV Resort, a reviewer highlighted: "Large paved sites with paver patios the length of the site. Most sites are ~60' or longer."
Utility placement varies: RVers should check hookup locations before positioning their rigs. About Oscar Scherer State Park, one camper advised: "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."
Site surface conditions: Weather impacts can significantly affect RV camping. A visitor to Ramblers Rest noted: "We came when it was dry, there could be a problem if there was a lot of rain due to the RV sitting on grass."
