Nokomis camping areas sit at just 7 feet above sea level, creating flat, accessible sites with minimal elevation changes for easier tent setup and RV parking. Winter temperatures average 60-75°F from December through February, making it the prime camping season with significantly lower humidity than summer months. While Oscar Scherer State Park offers designated pet areas, several other campgrounds within 15 miles provide alternative pet friendly camping options near Nokomis, Florida.
What to do
Kayaking on Myakka River: Launch directly from Camp Venice Retreat where sites along the river inlet have "perfectly placed utilities" and you can "launch you kayak or canoe right from your spot," according to Joshua B. The campground provides easy access to paddle "the Myakka River in both directions" with "plenty of wildlife - and gaters!" as Rich A. notes, adding that "they'll leave you alone if you don't bother them."
Biking the Legacy Trail: While accessible from multiple parks, Myakka River State Park offers excellent biking with "39 miles of hiking trails and off road/mountain biking at your pleasure." One camper from Travyl Couple! mentions, "We bike with hybrid specialized bikes and had no problems off road... You will enjoy biking the 7 miles of paved (flat) roads in Park."
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Manatee State Park, fishing is readily available with "great views from the lake" according to Amy P., who noted that "fishing is wonderful, though we did not try." The park offers direct water access and maintains a boat ramp for those who bring their own vessels.
Wildlife viewing: Visit Myakka River State Park where you'll see "alligators, turtles, wild pigs, and so many birds" as Laura M. observed during a canoe rental. The park charges reasonable rates of "$20 for the first hour and $5/hr after that" for canoe rentals to access prime wildlife viewing areas.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: At Camp Venice Retreat, sites offer good separation with "very comfy relaxed vibe" where "you pull in and instantly feel like you are among long time friends." Sam S. notes that "most of the sites are well sized with some pull through and many back ins" and "the sites along the river are super nice and should be on everyone's list to try to snag."
Clean facilities year-round: Fort De Soto Campground maintains "dated but well maintained" restrooms according to reviewers. One camper explains that "they clean them daily, so they are not bad," while noting practical advice: "bring your own toilet paper." The campground store is "nice and good for essentials if you don't want to take the 15/20 minute drive to publix."
Winter camping weather: Campers particularly enjoy the Nokomis area during cooler months. At Lake Manatee State Park, Lee S. observed that "while it may be hot in the summer, the winter months are amazing!" The state parks maintain consistent services year-round despite seasonal temperature fluctuations.
Dog-friendly beaches nearby: Fort De Soto Campground offers a dedicated dog beach within the park boundaries. Alyssa D. mentions the park has "gorgeous" beaches, "plenty of secret trails, a dog beach, general store, historic walks, boat ramps, kayak access, and much more!" The designated pet areas provide controlled spaces for dogs to enjoy the water.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Lake Manatee State Park experiences significant heat during summer months. Diana M. warns that "it was so hot because not too much nature" and "no too many trees, so not shade at all." Similarly, at Myakka River State Park, one reviewer noted temperatures "in the 90s° the week we camped." For summer trips, choose sites with shade coverage.
Campsite reservations timing: Royal Coachman RV Resort and other popular campgrounds fill quickly during winter. Fort De Soto has a specific reservation system where they "start booking 6 months out and open up 10% of the sites for the weekend each friday at 7am if you want to try and get lucky."
Site differences within parks: At Camp Venice Retreat, "about half the sites are back-in and can hold small RVs. The rest are tent only although the parking space is large enough to put a van-sized RV in sideways." Flying A Campground sites vary significantly with one reviewer noting, "Out of all the sites, 3 had the most privacy and had great views of the forest."
Water levels affect activities: Recent drought conditions impact some park amenities. A 2024 reviewer at Myakka State Park reported "NO WATER since Spring 2024. No boat tours as the river is low. No Bird walkway or Canopy walk." Call ahead to verify current conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Sun N Fun RV Resort offers extensive family facilities with "tons of activities for the family to enjoy" according to Juan M. Another camper, Joe R., mentioned "the kids enjoyed the slide (limited hours…ask ahead), and the warm pool was refreshing."
Wildlife education opportunities: Myakka River State Park provides excellent wildlife viewing for children. Jennifer M. shared that "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." Their family "got to see a Florida panther on one of the trails as well as a friendly family of scrub Jay's!"
Safety with local wildlife: At Myakka, be aware of wildlife encounters. A recent visitor in May 2024 reported "a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please." Basic precautions and supervision are essential with children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions vary: At Flying A Campground, the sites have limitations where "only 10 sites and one is for the camp host. About half the sites are back-in and can hold small RVs." Ari A. notes that for other sites "the parking space is large enough to put a van-sized RV in sideways."
Hookup differences: The Palmetto Ridge Campground at Myakka River State Park offers better RV services. Amanda W. reports it's "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." She adds that "the Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic."
Reservation strategies: For pet friendly camping near Nokomis, experienced RVers recommend booking well in advance. At Ramblers Rest RV Campground, which allows pets, a reviewer noted the park is "mostly full time or longer term seasonal rentals" and operates more like "a mobile home community where they squeeze RVs into the spaces between mobile homes."
