Equestrian camping near Sarasota, Florida offers diverse options for riders seeking both trail access and adequate facilities for their horses. The region includes several parks with trails spanning 2 to 14 miles, though availability of designated equestrian sites varies seasonally. Water levels in local rivers and lakes fluctuate throughout the year, affecting both trail conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along waterways: Myakka River State Park features numerous alligators, especially visible during low water levels. "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 one camper at Palmetto Ridge Campground.
Fossil hunting near Peace River: The sediment along Peace River contains shark teeth and other fossils from various time periods. "This park seems to flood and have limited sewer sites but is a great place to find Shark teeth and other fossils. I once had to abandon my Tilapia as the alligator appeared to want it more than me," notes a visitor at Peace River Campground.
Canopy walkway exploration: When open, the elevated walkways provide unique forest views. "We did the nature trail (short), the canopy walk, and also got permits for the wilderness preserve. The hike there is beautiful - about five miles round trip. Feels like the Serengeti - wide open prairie with occasional trees," reports a visitor at Myakka River State Park.
What campers like
Lake access at primitive sites: Several parks offer waterfront camping with basic amenities. At Hardee Lakes Park, "Primitive sites were $20 a night at time of writing. I was excited to discover all these primitive sites with water are right on the lake."
Trail variety for different skill levels: The region offers everything from short paved paths to challenging wilderness hikes. At Little Manatee River State Park, campers appreciate that "There are a lot of walking trails for people and horses. A surprise was the amphitheater. Friendly hosts and other campers."
Spacious sites with natural barriers: Many campgrounds maintain vegetation between sites. "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic. I would say the vegetation gives semi privacy but they aren't on top of each other so it's not like you're looking right at your neighbor," notes a visitor to Palmetto Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Water restrictions affect facilities: Drought conditions impact park operations regularly. "For over 2 years there has been no drinking water. Their osmosis processing isn't working and hasn't been repaired. There is free jug water at the entrance. Because of low water levels in the lake and river the boat tours have been discontinued," reports a camper at Myakka River State Park.
Wilderness permits limited daily: Special areas require advanced planning. "You have to get a permit from the ranger station at 8 am and they only give out enough for 30 people each day. Well worth it," explains a visitor describing Myakka's wilderness preserve.
Noise levels vary by campground: Some parks cater to motorized recreation. At Flying A Campground, one visitor noted it was "Nice but small primitive state forest campground. Only 10 sites and one is for the camp host," providing a quieter alternative to more developed areas.
Tips for camping with families
Select campsites based on bathroom proximity: Facilities vary widely between loops. "The Big Flats & Old Prairie loops are gravel road, tight, no privacy & very small sites like for popups, vans or small campers," notes one camper, suggesting families may prefer the more developed Palmetto Ridge area.
Book early for holiday periods: The most popular sites fill months in advance. "In-Season campsites are often difficult to find. In addition, the lower campground is sometimes flooded out or closed for repairs putting even more pressure on the two campgrounds closer to the main park entrance," explains a regular visitor.
Consider equestrian camping with older children: For horse-owning families, Alafia River State Park offers "Very nice facilities. Miles of horseback trails to ride. Very nice horse stalls to put horses in overnight. Perfect place for equine vacation!"
Tips from RVers
Choose newer campgrounds for larger rigs: Size limitations exist at older campgrounds. "Old Prairie Campground and Big Flats Campground are the oldest. These sites were not necessarily built for large RVs although you can get into some of them with an RV up to 30 feet. Palmetto Ridge Campground is the newest and will accommodate RVs of any size and has sewer hookups."
Check for full hookup availability: Not all sites offer complete services. "We stayed at the Palmetto Ridge campground which were gravel and had the full hook ups. The old prairie and big flats were regular ground surface electric/water (no sewer)."
Verify site surface type: Terrain varies significantly between parks. "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents. However, sites are not shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS!"
