Myakka River State Park offers primitive camping sites with varying hiking distances from 2 to 14 miles to reach campsites. Water access can be limited during dry seasons, with campers advised not to depend on water pumps along trails. The park sits within Florida's subtropical ecosystem, characterized by seasonal flooding patterns that create diverse microhabitats across its 39,000 acres. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Fossil hunting on Peace River: Visitors can search for prehistoric shark teeth and other fossils in the sediment. At Peace River Campground, "This is a great Campground just outside of Arcadia Florida. It has ATV trails and fossilized shark tooth hunting," notes Laura D. The camp store sells all necessary gear for fossil hunters.
Island exploration: For a completely different camping experience, take a ferry to Cayo Costa State Park Campground. "You have miles of beach with very few people and the nighttime skies are truly cosmic. The island also rents bicycles and I highly recommend doing so. There is a series of trails that run through the wooded sections of the island to explore," shares David I.
Kayaking the waterways: Navigate the region's extensive river systems. According to Rich A. at Camp Venice Retreat, "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."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's wetland ecosystem supports diverse wildlife. At Myakka River State Park, Michael L. shares that "a friendly baby gator was a frequent visitor to the water by our site which was cool too." Bird watching is particularly rewarding with numerous wading birds visible throughout the day.
Beach access: For those wanting to combine camping with beach time, Periwinkle Park on Sanibel Island provides an affordable base. "The campground is less than a mile from the beach, easily walkable and even easier to bike," according to Megan K., making it "far and away the most economical way to see the island."
Historic sites: The area features several historical attractions. At Koreshan State Park, Kara H. notes, "There are Historic buildings with interesting background and guided tours. Nature trails, kayaking, etc." The park preserves a turn-of-the-century settlement with numerous original structures.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Florida's rainy season impacts camping conditions. Thomas E. from Thousand Trails Peace River explains, "Watch the electricity during high usage the voltage drop, ours droped to 108v for a couple hours, i choose to run the gen during that time." Summer thunderstorms can arrive suddenly.
Bugs are prevalent: Florida's warm climate supports large insect populations. Jennifer L. from Cayo Costa warns, "WHATEVER YOU DO BRING BUG PROTECTION! I brought sawyers big lotion and 2 thermacell bug repellents and in 24 hours got 2 bug bites!" No-see-ums are particularly troublesome at dawn and dusk.
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit many waterways in the region. At Myakka River State Park, one camper reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beach-oriented glamping: For families seeking glamping in Port Charlotte, Florida area, Sanibel Island offers excellent options. At Periwinkle Park, Rob Y. mentions, "Nice campground with very flat campsites made setting up our small trailer a breeze. Very cost effective way to enjoy the island." The park includes an aviary that children enjoy.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools for when beach trips aren't convenient. "Super clean pool and helpful staff," notes JEFFREY W. about Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA, adding "There is even a hot tub! Grocery store nearby, which is really convenient."
Kid-friendly activities: Choose sites with recreational amenities. According to Alyssa D., "Myakka is not far from home and a great spot for nature - bike riding, trails, primitive camping, etc. There are bike rentals I have taken advantage of, plenty of walking trails, and you can rent airboats."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Check access carefully before booking. Amanda W. advises about Myakka River, "I'm staying 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."
Utility planning: Not all sites offer full hookups. Daniel B. notes at Thousand Trails Peace River, "They do a lottery no matter what time you arrive, first it was at noon, then moved to 1, then to 2. So everyone that arrived after you has the same chance to get a coveted full hook up site."
Road conditions: Access roads vary widely in quality. Sam S. cautions about Camp Venice Retreat, "Just a couple of minor issues are the road going in has some potholes and lots of low hanging tree branches. Drive slow and stay in the middle if you can. The park roads are all dirt and can be dusty at times."