Cabin accommodations near Murdock, Florida sit on relatively flat terrain, usually at elevations below 30 feet above sea level. Seasonal flooding can affect some cabin sites during summer's rainy season from June through September. Water levels at Myakka River State Park and surrounding waterways fluctuate significantly between dry winter months and wet summer conditions, affecting access to certain cabin amenities and water activities.
What to do
Wildlife viewing tours: $20 first hour, $5/hr after at Myakka River State Park, where cabin campers can rent canoes to explore the river ecosystem. "We rented a canoe for the day (reasonably priced at $20 for the first hour and $5/hr after that) and saw many alligators, turtles, wild pigs, and so many birds," notes Laura M.
Bicycling: 7-mile paved routes within easy access of cabin accommodations. "You will enjoy biking the 7 miles of paved (flat) roads in Park. There are Rivers and lakes for kayaking/canoe and we enjoyed the fishing and paddling," explains Travyl Couple.
Nature hiking: 39 miles of trails surrounding cabin areas with access to wildlife observation areas. "There is a small beach/swimming area which was great cause it's hot!! Park has mostly paved roads, a nice picnic area, trails, and some fishing spots," writes Rachel G. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between cabins: Many sites feature natural vegetation barriers. "The sites are quite large and private as the campground is mature with lots of native Florida foliage," reports Perry J. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
River access from cabin sites: Direct water access from some cabin locations. "You can launch you kayak or canoe right from your spot. The campsite is clean and lots of trees and a beautiful river to explore," says Joshua B. about Camp Venice Retreat.
Swimming options near cabins: Heated pools complement natural swimming areas. "The heated pool was a pleasant amenity. While the bathrooms were clean, they would benefit from a remodel," mentions Annette S.
Proximity to entertainment: Some cabin sites offer walking distance access to dining and music. "Walking distance to Snook Haven Restaurant which has great bbq and beer selection with frequent entertainment. I'm a chef in the area so i can attest to the quality," notes Michael L.
What you should know
Hurricane recovery status: Some cabin facilities still rebuilding. "To be fair, they are still recovering from hurricane Ian. Some of the sites are very nice and well kept and others look like they have very long term residents who don't clean up after themselves very well," explains Nan L. about Encore Gulf View.
Seasonal water levels: Water activities may be limited during dry periods. "The river was low so the kayak rental & boat tours were shut down," reports Amanda W. about Palmetto Ridge Campground.
Wildlife interactions: Alligators present near cabin sites. "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.
Cabin booking competition: High season (winter) cabins book quickly. "The reason Myakka is so popular to Florida visitors is it has outstanding beauty, a real Jurassic Park feel but is very near Sarasota with all the beaches, museums, restaurants and activities literally less than 1/2 hour away," explains Perry J.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Not all cabin locations offer play facilities. "Also never saw a playground if you have kids," notes Amanda W. about Myakka River State Park.
Junior ranger activities: Children can participate in ranger-led programs. "Ranger led programs take place nightly. We actually got to see a Florida panther on one of the trails as well as a friendly family of scrub Jay's!" shares Jennifer M. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
Kid-friendly biking: Multiple trail options for younger riders. "The Legacy trail built on an old railway doesn't offer much contour as it is pretty much a strait shot but runs from Sarasota to Venice and from Venice you can take the Venetian Waterway even further," explains Perry J.
Swimming pool availability: Important during hot months with children. "Pool/ hot tub is nice. Shower facility was clean and decent sized. Lots of wildlife: birds, alligators, and rabbits," reports Lawrence Robert T. about Encore Harbor Lakes.
Tips for RVers
Site drainage issues: Seasonal flooding affects some cabin and RV sites. "We have ended up in the least desirable locals to many times to count. Having said that, I would happily go back to this park again! There are tons of spaces, but lots of dense vegetation between them," explains Kim S. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
Utility placement challenges: Water hookups sometimes distant from standard connections. "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," advises Denise.
Limited sewer connections: Not available at all cabin and RV campgrounds. "The sites have water and electric and are dirt. Most sites are on the smaller side being shallow and narrow. Our site was great. Shaded most of day and wider," observes Rachel G. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
Tight access roads: Some cabin areas have narrow entrances. "Drive slow and stay in the middle if you can. The park roads are all dirt and can be dusty at times, but again, not a big issue," recommends Sam S. about Camp Venice Retreat.
