2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Tent campers exploring the Nokomis area in Florida have several established options, with Myakka River State Park primitive sites offering perhaps the most immersive natural experience. The park features six primitive campsites along 30 miles of hiking trails, accessible only by foot with distances ranging from 2.5 to 14 miles from trailheads. Other tent-friendly options include Crowley Museum and Nature Center's group camp area and Yellow Fever Creek Preserve's walk-in tent sites.
Most primitive tent sites in the region require advance preparation as amenities are limited. At Myakka River State Park, each primitive campsite contains three individual sites equipped with fire rings and posts for hanging backpacks. Several sites (Bee Island, Oak Grove, and Honore) feature working pitcher pumps that provide water requiring filtration or treatment. Other locations like Prairie and Panther Point camps don't guarantee water access, requiring campers to carry their own supplies. The region's subtropical climate makes insect protection essential year-round, particularly for no-see-ums and mosquitoes at dawn and dusk.
The tent camping experience near Nokomis offers genuine wilderness immersion rarely found in Florida's more developed coastal areas. Sites at Myakka River provide opportunities to observe diverse wildlife including alligators, wild hogs, and numerous bird species. The varied landscapes transition between prairies, swamps, and forest environments, creating distinct camping experiences depending on location choice. The primitive areas provide significant separation from established campgrounds, offering greater solitude. According to one visitor, "Myakka is the ultimate adventure getaway. We set up camp and could not wait for the sun to go down for stargazing." Trails throughout the region connect many camping areas, allowing tent campers to create multi-day hiking experiences between sites.
"I stayed in the primitive grounds so it was about a 5 mile hike in with a pack. We set up camp and could not wait for the sun to go down for stargazing."
"Myakka River Stste Park is 10 miles outside of Sarasota Florida, but feels very far removed from the city."
"Cayo Costa is absolutely the best place for getting away from everything civilized!."
"Cayo Costa is truly getting away from everything. Primitive camping only, and reachable only by ferry (must reserve ahead) or private boat."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $22 / night
"Primitive Camping for groups only unless booking private concierge camping service. There are bathrooms but no showers, there is an outdoors kitchen and a screened pavilion."
from $5 - $45 / night
Available next weekend
from $45 - $165 / night
from $9 / night
"Lively rivers and trails to explore for kids."
from $20 - $25 / night
"Sites have picnic tables, fire rings and port-o-lets available."
"When you get to the outpost you put your gear in the trailer and they drive it to the campsite for you. They drive you in a bus with the canoes and from there you paddle down to your campsite."
"The tent sites are spacious and nicely spread out, giving you plenty of room to set up camp without feeling crowded by your neighbors."
"The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren’t to close to other campers. The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost."
from $30 / night
"There’s definitely some noise from the busy road even halfway back to the pool. Spots are level and cement, very clean but tight."
"wonderful clean sites. very level cement pads. garbage pick up at site. two pools. had a great stay."
GuideNice state park in a great location for visiting the area. Bathhouse near my site could use an update and newer bathhouse could use a good shower stall wash. I camp in a Travato Van so maneuvering in the campground was easy for me but larger rigs might struggle.
LegendOn my never-ending pursuit of finding the most perfect campground on earth ... I may have just landed it! Fort DeSoto State Park Campground, which rests at the southernmost edge of Pinellas County, reached by crossing a series of causeways from St. Petersburg until the land simply runs out and the Gulf of Mexico (as my friend John Cougar Mellencamp recently point out - not Gulf of ‘Merika) takes over. First impressions are pure Florida magic with palm-lined roads, sweeping water views of translucent aqua blue shimmering in the sun all accompanied by a salty breeze that makes you feel like vacation has officially begun. The campground itself is spread across a low-lying coastal landscape with mangroves, dunes and open skies punctuated by cotton candy clouds, and despite its popularity, this tri-loop campground haven manages to feel relaxed and unhurried if you pick your timing right.
This archipelago is shaped like a boomerang with 3 distinct campground loops – each with its own vibe, layout, amenities and overall character (more on this later) – leaving one with the impression that Fort DeSoto is both incredibly spacious as well as incredibly well-organized, offering a mix of waterfront and interior sites with paved pads, picnic tables, stand-up grills and access to modern bathhouses that are generally clean and well maintained. Many sites offer electric and water hookups, with a dump station available for RV travelers. Navigation through the one-way loops is straightforward, pets are welcome and the overall layout feels intentionally designed to handle high traffic without feeling chaotic. While there’s but just a modest playground on-site, there are much more amenities for the kids on North Beach, but throughout the campground area, the sheer amount of open space, bike paths, beach side access to inlets that will allow you to make the most out of being this close to the Gulf more than compensates for families.
What truly sets Fort DeSoto apart is everything just outside your campsite. Miles of white sand beaches wrap around the park, including North Beach which is frequently ranked among the best beaches in the country (note: not county ... country). Kayaking trails wind through calm mangrove tunnels, fishing piers stretch into Tampa Bay, and biking loops circle the entire park. History lovers can explore the restored fort and military ruins, while birders will find plenty to admire along the shoreline. For supplies, you’re about 15 minutes from Tierra Verde Market, Publix and a Walmart Supercenter on Pinellas Bayway as well as a handful of casual eateries like Billy’s Stone Crab and Sea Hags if cooking feels optional.
Trying to find out which 1 of the 3 loops might be best for you? I’ll try to break this down. First, of all, my brother and I stayed in Area #1, so let me begin there, not only because numerically that’s where we should begin, but also because I’m the most familiar with this loop, which consists of sites numbered #1-85. If you’re looking not just for ocean views with Gulf access – because like me, you’ve brought a kayak / canoe – then Area #1 for this solo reason is why you want to book here. And while it’s true that you likely could access water in Area #2, you’ll have to go the long way around to access the Gulf. Back to Area #1, I found this simple, single loop offering sites excellent in size, with TONS of shade (no need to bring your shelter to blot out the sun, although not a bad idea to have it handy in case of rain) and decent length long ‘driveways’ with which to pull in and set up camp, whether you’re packing tents (like me) or pulling in with your RV or sprinter van. Seriously, the scenery alone here in Area #1(at least sites #1-34) cannot be beaten with direct views of the Gulf, which you can access in less than 20 paces from where you’ve pitched your tent or parked for the night.
Each site is equipped with electric and water and for RVs needing sewage, there’s a spot as you exit prior to arriving at the ranger station that will accommodate you. The restroom and shower facilities in Area#1 are the best that I’ve ever seen in the state of Florida (which is saying something as I’ve camped in more than 100 spots here in the Sunshine state) – and wonder if this is because CG Hosts (versus FL state employees) are charged with keeping the CG clean?! – with very hot water (sometimes TOO hot) and lots of pressure would be an accurate description. Area #2 IMHO is somewhat cramped, very RV populated, with sites that are fairly crowded, yet heavily shaded with amenities that are similar to Area #1, albeit slightly more outdated; however, if you come with pets in tow, this is the ONLY area that will welcome you here at Fort DeSoto CG. Lastly, Area #3 has AMAZING water views, but given the seawall that surrounds this portion of the island, you won’t be able to actually access the water unless you dock your boat somehow to the wall and don’t mind jumping up 4-6 feet down to access your vessel. I found the sites here to be fine, although like Area #2, somewhat crowded, but yet still offering very good shade with restroom and shower facilities to be on par with the rest of the park. The best sites over here would be those from #197– 233 that look northernly towards the Gulf offering nothing short of AMAZING sunsets on the water.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) Waterfront sites in Loop 2 and Loop 3 are the most coveted for sunset views and breezes, but they book fast; (2) Bring bikes as this park is tailor-made for cruising on two wheels with flat, scenic loops in and around the campground area, but the best biking will be had once heading out past the ranger station to explore the larger areas of the island, where East Beach is worth a glide by (especially to watch the kite surfers where wind is at its strongest), but it’s North Beach that will have you stopping for a longer spell; (3) Kayaking through the mangroves on a calm morning is a must, especially for wildlife sightings; however, our absolute favorite moment of the entire trip was crossing the strong currents of shipping lanes to make it all the way to Shell Key, which apart from a few pensioners getting sunburnt in their beach chairs and an errant fishing boat or two, we had the entire island to ourselves … EASTER EGG: I’m a fairly solid kayaker and love oaring and with these strong currents, it IS manageable to cross, but you’ll want to plan on at least 1 hour of non-stop, albeit scenic oaring to make it to Shell Key; (4) Afternoon storms roll through quickly in summer, so plan beach time early and camp dinners later; (5) North Beach on the northernmost edge tends to be quieter and more family-friendly than the busier east-facing beaches near the fort; (6) If you’re visiting during peak season, weekday stays are noticeably calmer than weekends; and (7) When heading to the restroom facilities you will come across what is likely the largest sign I have ever seen in any campground WARNING YOU OF RACCOONS and, trust me, you want to HEED THIS SIGN as these black-eyed bandits are EVERYWHERE and not afraid to come right up to your tent and look in or right up to you sitting next to your campfire while looking for something to eat or steal, so be incredibly careful and PACK UP EVERYTHING whenever it’s not being used EVEN IN DAYLIGHT HOURS.
In sum, I absolutely loved this campground and will now be comparing every single one I visit to Fort DeSoto Campground.
Happy Camping!
ScoutHaven't been camping here. Based on the photos, it looks like it is a beautiful place. Looks like somewhere to have a fun, crazy, spontaneous camp experience. I prefer natural nature. Cutting the trails, fire wood, catching dinner, fighting mosquitoes without harsh chemicals. Preserving the world. Maybe make a reservation. Leave the dogs with a sitter and not have a care in the world.
ScoutQuiet. Definitely skewed toward equestrian. Sites are well spaced. Outer loop is best. Restroom/showers are very well kept. Not much for kids. Short trails are ok. Cayaking is best option if you're in to that. Relax here, enjoy the peace and have your favorite beverage
ScoutBeautiful 😁
GuideNice little place. Gravel, pull-through sites, clean bathrooms, and friendly staff. Tons to do for the littles!
Scoutwonderful clean sites. very level cement pads. garbage pick up at site. two pools. had a great stay.
ScoutClose to beaches, beach parking is paid via campground fees. Quiet this time of year, fairly good size sites.
ScoutThe place is very big and spread out , always sites available full hook ups or just water and electric (always alot of these open 20 or more) we have a pass to stay at these sites so we were put in a not so great site ,but talking with front desk (Morgan) she was more than happy to switch us to another site which we were pleased with . Pools clean ,clean bath houses and close to stores (grocery) always love going here . We have a blast . Also its centrally located a hr to coasts ( Venice beach) . Hr and 20 mins from warm mineral springs . River was nice to watch onsite also . Boat ramp also onsite
Tent camping near Nokomis, Florida offers nature immersion in a coastal subtropical environment with average summer highs of 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. The region's flat terrain connects multiple ecosystems including pine flatwoods, marshlands, and coastal areas. Most primitive sites require preparation for high humidity conditions and abundant wildlife encounters, especially during summer months when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Fossil hunting along Peace River: Oak Hill Campground provides access to one of Florida's richest fossil hunting areas. "We found over 100 [shark teeth] just at the campsite alone," reports Deven R. Bring a shovel and sifter to maximize your chances of finding prehistoric treasures during low water seasons.
Island exploration by kayak: At Cayo Costa State Park Campground, visitors can reach remote beaches and explore barrier islands. "Take the time to plan your paddle around, between and through the barrier islands to Cayo Costa. There is some big water, that might put your panties in a bunch if you aren't use to it," advises Dave V. The park offers bike rentals ($20/half day) for exploring the island's interior trails.
Wildlife observation at dawn/dusk: Early morning and evening hours provide optimal wildlife viewing at Myakka River State Park Primitive Sites. "Outside of the beauty and trails there are Florida's wildest animals. Panthers, hogs and alligators. Bring a flashlight and hide your food at night but don't forget to listen and look for these amazing creatures," notes Jennifer T. The diverse ecosystems support over 100 bird species year-round.
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution at primitive sites creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Cayo Costa State Park, "You'll enjoy a myriad of water birds along with osprey, bald eagles, kingfisher and kites. Stargazing is to die for...no ambient light to wash out the blackness of the night sky," according to Dave V.
Private camping experiences: The Bohemian Hideaway offers secluded sites with only two camping areas on the property. "We had a great time at this private camp spot in their GlamPing tent. We fished all day right from our site and took advantage of the extra rentals they had, kayaks and outdoor movie," shares Jess.
Diverse camping environments: Within short distances, campers can experience dramatically different ecosystems. At Myakka River State Park, "The hike there alternated landscapes- prairies, swamps, foresty- so during certain areas it was very bleak and boring, but that's apart of it!" explains Alacyn B., describing the journey to Honoroe primitive campsite.
Insect preparation is essential: Bug protection strategies must be comprehensive in this region. At Cayo Costa State Park, one camper advises, "WHATEVER YOU DO BRING BUG PROTECTION! I brought sawyers bug lotion and 2 thermacell bug repellents and in 24 hours got 2 bug bites! Fire ants too are a big thing." Permethrin-treated clothing and enclosed tents are recommended for primitive camping.
Water logistics require planning: Many primitive sites have limited water access. At Myakka River primitive sites, "Bee Island, Oak Grove, and Honore campsites have working pitcher pumps at them. Water from these pumps will need to be filtered or treated. Prairie and Panther Point Camps aren't guaranteed to have water," notes Deven V.
Wildlife protection measures: Food storage strategies are crucial for preventing wildlife encounters. "Well, the night belongs to the Rats on this island. There are literally thousands of them. If you camp here take precautions and know that rats will chew through any bag that contains food," warns a camper about Cayo Costa. Use sealed containers for all food items.
Group camping options: Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp specializes in accommodating youth and family groups. "This is a very special location, holding lots of history in the pioneer area where there are multiple restored buildings from the late 1800's pioneers. Anyone you meet will be happy to share that history with you," says Jeanene A.
Equipment transportation assistance: Peace River's Oak Hill Campground offers gear hauling services. "Awesome place to camp without having to Carrier your equipment. When you get to the outpost you put your gear in the trailer and they drive it to the campsite for you," explains Deven R. This service makes wilderness camping more accessible for families with young children.
Camping location selection: For families new to primitive camping, Terry Tomalin Campground provides a middle-ground experience. "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren't too close to other campers. The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost," suggests Caleb H. The campground's newer facilities and maintained trails provide a more controlled environment for family adventures.
Site selection considerations: At Upriver RV Resort, location within the park affects noise levels. "We've stayed at Upriver a couple of times, always in the big pull through premium spots at the front. There's definitely some noise from the busy road even halfway back to the pool," notes Karen C. Consider requesting sites further from main roads for quieter stays.
Amenities availability: RV parks in the region offer variable amenities that affect stay quality. "Great Campground, Super Sites and all Premium Sites, 2 swimming pools, Tennis Courts, Bocce Ball, Shuffle Board, Pickle Ball, Corn Hole, Horse Shoes very nice place to winter but must have reservations," reports Herbert M. about Upriver RV Resort. Early reservations are essential during winter months when northern visitors peak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nokomis, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nokomis, FL is Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park with a 5.0-star rating from 3 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Nokomis, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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