Myakka City camping options range from primitive backcountry sites requiring substantial hikes to full-service RV resorts with modern amenities. Located in Florida's interior flatlands, the region sits at approximately 40 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate that brings afternoon thunderstorms from June through September and drier conditions from October through May. Water levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, affecting trail and campsite accessibility during rainy seasons.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Peace River: The Peace River Campground offers unique opportunities to search for prehistoric artifacts. "We found LOTS and the camp store sells all the gear you need," notes one visitor, while another mentions "the Peace River is full of fossils from all different time periods."
Wildlife photography at lakes: Lake Manatee State Park provides excellent wildlife viewing. "We enjoyed the fishing and paddling," one camper explains, while another mentions the "nice little beach" and "lots of wildlife" present throughout the park.
Primitive hiking adventures: For experienced backpackers, Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park offers remote camping experiences. "We hiked to the 2nd closest primitive campsite, Honoroe I believe... It was the PERFECT campsite. Except that it was 4.5 miles (total) to a water source," recalls one backpacker, highlighting the planning required for these backcountry sites.
Canopy walking tours: The elevated walkways provide unique perspectives of the ecosystem. "The visitor center offers a lot of rentals too... from kayaks to tandem bikes," explains a visitor to Myakka River State Park who recommends the canopy walkway as a must-see feature.
What campers like
Trail connections to Legacy Trail: Oscar Scherer State Park Campground sits conveniently along a major bike path. "The Legacy trail built on an old railway... runs from Sarasota to Venice and from Venice you can take the Venetian Waterway even further," explains one camper. Another adds, "Park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking."
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront privacy at Fort De Soto Campground. "The sites are mostly well separated. Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained," notes a recent visitor. Another camper mentions, "Direct access to the ocean where lots of shells can be found."
Diverse hiking environments: The region offers varied terrain for hikers. "Lots of hiking in this park, if you cycle 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," explains one reviewer at Oscar Scherer State Park.
Farm-fresh produce access: Bradenton / Hunsader Farms KOA offers a unique camping experience with agricultural components. "We enjoyed the produce market, but you could also go in the fields and pick your own," mentions a visitor who appreciated the "quiet, pretty campground with friendly staff, a petting zoo and vegetable farm on property."
What you should know
Water safety considerations: Alligators are common in all water bodies throughout the region. A camper at Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park 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."
Limited availability during peak season: Reservations become essential during winter months. "This park is very popular to Florida visitors," one camper notes, adding that "spots are almost impossible to get at state parks" without planning ahead.
Water restrictions during dry periods: Water access varies seasonally. "NO WATER since Spring 2024. No boat tours as the river is low," reported one Myakka River State Park visitor in late 2024, highlighting how drought conditions affect recreational opportunities.
Flooded trails after storms: Heavy rain events can limit access. "There was no flooding on the sites themselves but it did make it rather hard to walk throughout the grounds beyond your own site," mentions one camper about Gulf Beach Campground after a rainstorm.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity considerations: Turtle Beach Campground offers excellent beach access for families. "Beach is at the end of the campsite, easy walk. Restaurants across the street if you feel like dining out," explains one visitor. Another adds, "We were there to enjoy the beach with our grandsons so it did not bother us."
Farm animal experiences: Families with younger children often enjoy the interactive farm elements at some campgrounds. "There's a big dog park, but not much shade there. There's a winery just 1 mile away," notes a Bradenton/Hunsader Farms KOA visitor.
Playground assessments: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam," mentions one parent about Fort De Soto, adding, "The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent."
Free transportation options: Some coastal campgrounds offer trolley services. "Having a free trolley that stops close by the entrance was a huge plus," notes a Turtle Beach visitor, who appreciated the ease of exploring without driving.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Sun N Fun RV Resort offers numerous amenities for longer stays. "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic. I would say the vegetation gives semi privacy but they aren't on top of each other," notes an RV camper at Myakka River State Park who compared different camping areas.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. "The site was nice and private with a little leveling needed," mentions one RVer at Oscar Scherer State Park who added, "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)."
Variable site surfaces: Surface materials differ between campgrounds. "Sites are crushed shell and our site was pretty level," reports a visitor to Bradenton/Hunsader Farms KOA, while another camper notes, "Bath house and laundry facility appears clean. Pet friendly."
Limited dump facilities: Many campgrounds have minimal waste disposal options. "There is no sewer or 50amp, but great anyways," notes a Lake Manatee State Park visitor who still rated their experience highly despite these limitations.
