Primitive camping sites at Myakka State Forest provide a budget-friendly option near Murdock, with sites available for just $8 per night. The forest's Flying A Campground features 10 small sites (one reserved for the camp host) situated on white dirt roads with diverse privacy levels. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, making early morning activities essential for both human and canine campers.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along waterways: At Myakka River State Park, visitors can observe numerous alligators, birds, and other native species. "We hiked to the deep hole. There we saw tons of alligators birds and wildlife! A great piece of raw Florida!" reports Christina L.
Fossil hunting expeditions: Peace River Campground offers direct access to shark tooth and fossil collection areas. "This park seems to flood and have limited sewer sites but is a great place to find Shark teeth and other fossils," notes Paula C., who adds a caution about wildlife encounters: "I once had to abandon my Tilapia as the alligator appeared to want it more than me!"
Biking the Legacy Trail: Oscar Scherer State Park connects directly to this paved multi-use path. "The park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking. Multiple stops along the way but mostly in full sun," according to Rachel G.
Canoeing and kayaking: The Myakka River provides excellent paddling opportunities with rentals available at several locations. "Right on the river. Boat ramp awesome roomy sites," says Melinda H. about Camp Venice Retreat, noting the easy water access for both privately-owned and rented watercraft.
What campers like
Private sites between vegetation: At Oscar Scherer State Park Campground, natural buffers create secluded camping spots. "Most sites are surrounded by greenery so you are buffered from your neighbor," reports Rachel G., who recommends sites #21 and #22 for their extra width and shade coverage.
Clean facilities despite age: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Murdock maintain well-kept restrooms despite older infrastructure. "Bathrooms were very clean! There were sinks for dish washing as well," Jennifer M. noted about Oscar Scherer's amenities, which include separate shower rooms with locking doors.
Hiking trail diversity: Multiple paths accommodate different ability levels and interests. "You will have 39 miles of hiking trails and off road/mountain biking at your pleasure," explains Travyl Couple about Palmetto Ridge Campground, adding "fortunately, there is lots of shade even while hiking due to the canopy trees and this kept things cooler during in the summer."
Proximity to town amenities: Campsites near Murdock offer wilderness experiences while remaining close to urban conveniences. "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," says Kasey K. about Peace River Campground.
What you should know
Primitive campsites require preparation: At Flying A Campground, facilities are minimal and waste management is camper responsibility. "Not a very welcoming place for tent campers. Seems like they will be catering more to Glamper's and RV's which is a shame!!!" notes Greg R. about the campground's shifting focus.
Wildlife requires constant vigilance: Alligators frequent waterfront locations, particularly during spring and summer mating season. "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. at Palmetto Ridge.
Reservation requirements vary: Many Flying A Campground sites require advance booking and gate code access. "The campground is gated (you get the lock code when you reserve a site). Note that this campground requires reservations," explains Ari A., who found the small forest campground peaceful despite limited amenities.
Campground cleanliness inconsistencies: Some sites suffer from maintenance issues or previous camper neglect. "The campsite looked like it wasn't maintained at all. There was a big dilapidated bin of random trash that looked like it had been there for quite some time (site 3), a ton of cigarette butts, melted plastic pieces everywhere," reports Josh M. about Flying A, though he still rated it positively for the natural setting.
Tips for camping with families
Water-based recreation options: Camp Venice Retreat offers river access for families with various interests. "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," advises Rich A., who particularly recommends the site for paddling enthusiasts.
Pack extra water for trails: Heat requires additional hydration, especially on longer routes. "They have great primative sites, with hikes that vary from 2 miles to 14 miles to camp sites. Beware of heat, bring plenty of water. Dont depend on water pumps," cautions Michael K. about Myakka River State Park's backcountry options.
ATV-friendly locations with designated areas: Some campgrounds accommodate motorized recreation for families with older children. "Friendly staff. Plenty of places to find a spot on the river to camp in the wilderness. Bring your rafts and canoes to float down the river or just hang out on the beach in your lawn chair and watch the fun! Lots of trails for dirtbikes, ATVs and UTVs!" explains JACKIE L. about Peace River Campground.
Ranger programs for education: Scheduled activities enhance learning opportunities. "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!" reports Jennifer M. from Oscar Scherer, adding "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."
Tips from RVers
Utility placement awareness: At Creekside RV Resort, hookup locations are standardized for easy setup. "Large paved sites with paver patios the length of the site. Most sites are ~60' or longer," notes Gordon D., who returns annually for winter stays. Many other parks require more creative parking to reach water or electric connections.
Resort amenities vs. natural settings: Higher-priced options offer additional facilities beyond camping basics. "Lazy River, splash pad, pools, gym, and pool bar. Looks very new still and is kept up very well. I honestly didn't want to leave the park and site see anything else," says Chad W. about Creekside RV Resort.
Site surface variations: While some parks feature paved or concrete pads, others have natural surfaces that may become problematic in wet weather. "We stayed in the Palmetto Ridge loop which is the only paved loop & I think the only one w/sewer. The Big Flats & Old Prairie loops are gravel road, tight, no privacy & very small sites like for popups, vans or small campers," explains Amanda W. from Myakka River State Park.
Dump station locations: Not all parks include sewer at individual sites. "Power and water, but no sewer connections at sites. There is a dump station and dumpsters near the entrance of the camping area," explains David S. about Oscar Scherer State Park's waste management setup.
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