Primitive camping options exist in the wooded areas of Myakka State Forest near Venice, Florida, with sites available for $8 per night. The forest features hiking trails rated easy to moderate, accessible within a quarter mile of the campground area. Venice's subtropical climate means summer camping often faces temperatures in the 90s with high humidity.
What to do
Kayak the Myakka River: Launch directly from camping spots at Camp Venice Retreat where sites are positioned along river inlets. "You can launch you kayak or canoe right from your spot," notes Joshua B., who enjoyed exploring the river during his first camping trip with a new camper.
Hike wilderness trails: Within Myakka River State Park, obtain a special permit for access to remote areas. "After hearing of the wilderness preserve we decided to go ahead and get the permit... After driving back to the parking area, we realized we had the 600 acres to ourselves. We then hiked to the deep hole. There we saw tons of alligators birds and wildlife!" shares Christina L.
Bike the Legacy Trail: The 10-mile paved multi-use path is accessible from several campgrounds. "Park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking. Multiple stops along the way but mostly in full sun," writes Rachel G. Bring sunscreen and water when riding during daylight hours.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Old Prairie Campground offers exceptional animal sightings. "While riding our bikes along Park and North Drive, and taking a drive early one morning to the Outpost to get some cell service, it was a Florida safari! I've never seen so many alligators in the wild. From babies to big daddies, they lined the river and the edge of the lake," reports Dale G.
Privacy between campsites: Many Venice area campgrounds offer natural buffers. "Most sites are surrounded by greenery so you are buffered from your neighbor," writes Rachel G. about her site at Oscar Scherer State Park. Sites at Myakka River State Park have "a little less privacy" in the Old Prairie and Big Flats areas compared to Palmetto Ridge.
Access to local entertainment: Camp Venice Retreat offers walkable access to local establishments. "Walking distance to Snook Haven Restaurant which has great bbq and beer selection with frequent entertainment," explains Michael L., noting the restaurant has "twice daily entertainment at noon and 5pm most days" according to Sam S.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Some parks face drought impacts. "The river was low so the kayak rental & boat tours were shut down," reports Amanda W. about Myakka River State Park in April. Similarly, at Lake Manatee State Park in summer, "The lake was fine to swim" according to Diana M., though temperatures reached the 90s.
Campsite drainage issues: During Florida's rainy season, some campgrounds experience flooding. At Ramblers Rest RV Campground, "When it rains frequently (summer months) the ground tends to become saturated with water. Many times we had 2" plus of standing water outside of our RV," reports Craig M. who stayed during August and September.
Noise from nearby attractions: At Lake Manatee State Park, the neighboring raceway creates occasional noise issues. "Seemed to be an active weekend at the speedway, but it was not overbearing," writes Kevin H., while Amy P. notes "the racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling" with "cars ran from 8am to 11pm, it seems."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Fort De Soto Campground offers well-designed 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. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares Joe R.
Swimming options: Multiple parks offer swimming areas for families to cool off. At Myakka River State Park, Laura M. reports, "There's also a store with souvenirs and basic snacks and a food truck. We rented a canoe for the day (reasonably priced at $20 for the first hour and $5/hr after that)." Sun N Fun RV Resort features "a huge pool" according to Jennifer S.
Wildlife education opportunities: Venice area campgrounds provide chances for children to learn about native species. "We actually got to see a Florida panther on one of the trails as well as a friendly family of scrub Jay's! 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," shares Jennifer M. about her stay at Oscar Scherer State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Oscar Scherer State Park Campground offers partial hookups with site-specific considerations. "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). Make sure to bring a longer hose, or park closer to the water than electric," advises Denise.
Site selection for large rigs: At Myakka River State Park, choose your loop carefully based on RV size. "The Big Flats & Old Prairie loops are gravel road, tight, no privacy & very small sites like for popups, vans or small campers. The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic," reports Amanda W., noting Palmetto Ridge is "the only paved loop & I think the only one w/sewer."
Low-hanging obstacles: Some campgrounds have access challenges. At Camp Venice Retreat, Sam S. warns about "the road going in has some potholes and lots of low hanging tree branches. Drive slow and stay in the middle if you can."
