Explore
/
United States
/
Florida
/
State Parks
/
Myakka River State Park

The best campsites in Myakka River State Park, FL

93% (14)

The best campsites in Myakka River State Park, FL

Old Prairie Campground

1. Old Prairie Campground

100%

(4)

19 units · Tents, Motorhomes · In Myakka River State Park

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

At Myakka River State Park, all sites come with 50-amp/water hook-ups, a fire ring, and picnic table

Public campgrounds in Myakka River State Park are often sold-out.

Palmetto Ridge Campground

2. Palmetto Ridge Campground

100%

(2)

38 units · Tents, Motorhomes · In Myakka River State Park

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

At Myakka River State Park, all sites come with 50-amp/water hook-ups, a fire ring, and picnic table

Big Flats Campground

3. Big Flats Campground

92%

(6)

24 units · Tents, Motorhomes · In Myakka River State Park

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

At Myakka River State Park, all sites come with 50-amp/water hook-ups, a fire ring, and picnic table

Myakka River Cabins

4. Myakka River Cabins

5 units · In Myakka River State Park

Combine Mother Nature’s wonders with history by staying in a palm tree cabin

Costa Myakka

5. Costa Myakka

100%

(100)

12km from Myakka River State Park · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Welcome to the "Wild and Scenic Myakka River"! Our 20 acre ranch has everything from Longhorn cattle, to a white sand beach. We like to say our sand is like Siesta Key, except it's...in a swamp. Our property is not too far upstream from the Myakka State park, and parking is never a problem. ;-) We have a beautiful homestead, and you have the choice of a furnished camper with water and power hookups in our pasture, or 2 primative tent or RV spots on the edge of a beautiful stand of Live Oak trees and Sabal palms along the river. We have a porta potty on site that is regularly maintained. Bring your family, bring your dog, bring your friends.....and don't forget to bring a fishing pole!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$55

/ night

Scenic Waterway [NOT Active]

6. Scenic Waterway [NOT Active]

96%

(36)

23km from Myakka River State Park · 10 units · Motorhomes

Currently NOT hosting because greedy Sarasota County, Florida and homeowner's insurance both want too much money as to not make this worth it. I wanted to share my extra land and help others due to campgrounds being full and/or too expensive, but the government and insurance want to penalize me for that so we all lose. Beautifully landscaped waterfront setting. 15 minutes to world famous Warm Mineral Springs and 35 minutes to Gulf beaches. Clean and orderly. No smoking, marijuana, heavy vaping or illicit drugs. 14 day limit per 6 months. Maximum RV length 25', no trailers (except for bikes and kayaks), no buses. No vehicles older than 2015 unless presentable and well maintained. Please include description of vehicles so I can determine placement. Considered a safe area. Trash and recycle bins, bench swing, outside seating and tables. Power is protected with a surge protector. Water is filtered from a well. The waterway offers fishing, small boating and wildlife watching. I have two friendly dogs that wander around off leash. Please don't allow them to access any of your or your pet's food. Visit econeato.org/host for list of other rules and very helpful info. The longer your stay, the more likely I will ask questions to understand compatibility as this is a residence. It would help if you let me know what kind of RV you have (length, slide-outs, etc.) and basic info about your pets, if any. During tornado warnings or hurricane winds, guests are offered to come inside. Host is 56, single and never married; considering looking overseas for younger girlfriend. Retired from a large variety of jobs. Not a MAGA fan. Diet is strictly healthy which mainly omits sugar and corn syrup. Have lived in a campervan six years full time from 2016 to 2021; traveled most of the U.S. to include Alaska but not Hawaii. Have visited popular Canadian areas. Have a 2018 Ford Transit customized and highly developed campervan. Born in Ohio, grew up in Texas / Arkansas. Bought this Florida home in early 2021 that is energy efficient and withstands strong storms well, but not storm proof. Worked diligently for four years to upgrade and improve the property.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$25

/ night

Two Tall Pines

7. Two Tall Pines

97%

(35)

23km from Myakka River State Park · 2 units · Motorhomes

We will share our piece of paradise with you. It is 3 blocks (cross no main roads) to Shamrock Park and the Venetian Intercoastal Waterway with walk and bike trail, playground, tennis courts, basketball hoops and nature center plus restrooms at the park. Our quiet, safe neighborhood includes a boat ramp, a separate kayak launch as well as fishing spots along the intercoastal. All 4 of the Venice beaches (including a dog beach) are within 7 miles of our location and are well known for finding shark teeth. Our beach's offer free parking, outdoor yoga, drum circle and live music. Downtown Venice offers a variety of stores, restaurants, souvenir shops, high end clothing, an interactive splash fountain and several ice cream shops. It also offers Historic Walking Tours and Farmer's Market (Saturday mornings). Venice has four main beaches: Venice Municipal Beach 4.8 miles (the most popular); Nokomis Beach 6.9 miles (home of the Drum Circle at sunset on Wednesday and Saturday evenings); South Brohard Beach (22 acres including a dog park) 4.5 miles and Caspersen Beach 5.3 miles (the longest beach in Sarasota County and famous for its shark teeth). 30amp electric and water included. You must use holding tanks. Maximum stay is 7 days.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$45

/ night

Bayou Bliss

8. Bayou Bliss

100%

(51)

26km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

🚗 Two miles (5min drive) from downtown Sarasota 🌴 Old-Florida charm: lots of lush tropical greenery 🚣🏼‍♂️ On Whitaker’s Bayou. 🌟 It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful nature on the creek, and easy access to all the best restaurants, beaches, and charming Main St atmosphere. 💩 MUST have a bathroom on-board. No sewer hookup 💦 No water hookup, but you may fill your water tank with the hose ⚡️ 15amp & 30 amp plug ins. BYO adapter. Extension cord needed to reach the plug. 🏕️ No long term campers. No tent camping. 🚴🏼 Biking to Main St takes 8-10minutes if you have bicycles! 🏖️ Ten minute drive from St-Armands Circle and Lido Beach; 20-25 minute drive from Siesta Key Beach. The Bayou goes all the way out to the Gulf - we see large schools of mullet here, occasionally turtles, hawks, and herons. If you are lucky, you might see a manatee or an otter! We have a 36” campfire pit you are welcome to use. We are still working on getting seating for the campfire pit, but if you have camping chairs, it’s perfect! We have an amazing location to share AND we also have neighbors to the left, and across the creek. We value and respect them. We wish to share our space with quiet and mindful campers. The property is 0.5 acre. You will be parking in part of the yard, under the shade of one of the oaks, slightly tucked back away from the house. We can be available to help/welcome you, and offer local guidance if you like. **A sweet but fearful rescue dog lives here and we are not allowing any other animals to camp or stay on the property.** NO DOGS WHATSOEVER. You will be made to leave if you violate this condition. ***Our acceptance rate is lower because people with dogs, 5 people in their party, or no onboard facility of their own submit booking requests, which we must decline.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$60

/ night

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

9. Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(295)

31km from Myakka River State Park · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Going on Year 4 as a hipcamp host! We are so grateful to have met such wonderful guests over the years! This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in SW Florida! Hiking trails, horse farms, shopping, restaurants, recreational activities and within minutes from the beautiful FL beaches. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a snowbird vacation!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$55

/ night

N N Farms

10. N N Farms

98%

(22)

32km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Glamping

Fun off grid spirited tiny house. A 5 acre farm with Private 1 acre separate with a tiny house and pond. Nestled up next to our farm with plenty of farm animals to admire! We provide chicken, fish and goat feed for your fun. We have an outdoors area with loads of games. Bring your firewood and marshmallows! Close to Myakka State Park, 45 minutes to many beaches. Small town charm in Arcadia Florida, known for its quaint antique shops. We have a TV with a Firestick and DVD player complete with plenty of dvd’s.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$77

/ night

Aker Brand Farms

11. Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

33km from Myakka River State Park · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes

15 acre bmx training farm in Myakka City. Good vibes, pond, lots of wildlife and night sky views! 2.7 miles from Wingate Creek State Park 14.5 miles from Lake Manatee State Park 15 miles from Myakka River State Park We have an outdoor Shower and Gym that can be used by guests. - 2 RV hook ups and plenty of room for a tent set up! - Myakka River and a natural spring pond within walking distance of the campsite. - If wanted you can get up close and personal with some of our cows and chickens! We can't wait to welcome you!

Pets

Campfires

Showers

from

$32

/ night

Brainy And Footsy Beach Pad

12. Brainy And Footsy Beach Pad

96%

(13)

33km from Myakka River State Park · 2 units · Motorhomes

Weekly rate $315 ($45 per night). Monthly rate $1,200 ($40 per night). Special monthly rate for Aug-Oct $1,000 (rainy season - $35 per night) Contact me for payment options. Welcome to the Brainy & Footsy Beach Pad, a charming getaway nestled in the heart of Englewood FL near Dearborn st and Manasota Key. This Full hook up RV site is fully privacy fenced in, provides 50/30 amp power, and is less than 3 miles from the beaches of Manasota Key. Every convenience an RVer could ask for is within 10 minutes and many are walkable. Pets are welcome and will enjoy the oversized 90’ x 45’ lot. Plenty of parking for your tow vehicle and there is even a Ford dealership with Service department in walking distance. A featured walking path located across the street, nearby state parks and beaches. We are a full time traveling family and we created this RV lot to be everything we want when we stay here. *PLEASE NOTE* we are on a busy street that leads to the beaches and shopping so backing into the lot can be intimidating to newer RVers. Traffic is lighter after 6, so if the lot is empty you can arrange to arrive the night before your check in at no extra charge if this concerns you For monthly rates, please book and I will adjust to the correct rate based on the length of stay. Hipcamp should adjust for weekly rates automatically Thanks! Looking forward to hosting you. The Lot features: 40' x 15' concrete pad Electric/ Water/ Sewer at the site 4' x 6' weather proof Shed for your use Outdoor hammock chair Catio/ Small animal enclosure fully enclosed by 6 ft privacy fence onsite parking inside and/ or outside the fenced area *Only one RV permitted per reservation- no tent camping * Combo rentals available (brainy & footsy beach cottage and Brainy & footsy beach pad), please contact me for the link to the cottage. The two properties have a common access gate to join the RV lot and the cottage yard. You may only open the access gates when unlocked from both sides- you may not use the cottage yard if you believe the cottage to be unrented (we have short notice rentals and someone may show up to the cottage at any time). * You may only park in the designated area in front of the RV lot or within the RV lot fencing.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$55

/ night

Rasayana Cove

13. Rasayana Cove

98%

(315)

37km from Myakka River State Park · 2 units · Glamping

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large.  The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways.  A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$95

/ night

Privacy in Fort Ogden

14. Privacy in Fort Ogden

99%

(135)

39km from Myakka River State Park · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Welcome to Privacy in Fort Ogden! We are located in Fort Ogden, 45 minutes north of Fort Myers, FL. We have 3 tent campsites available to choose from. We can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. The sites are flat, no hookups are available at this time. Amenities include a picnic table, toilet, potable water, and a fire ring We are pet-friendly (on leash). Small dogs are not recommended unless you keep a very close eye on them. This is a farm, cows, donkeys, coyote etc. can pose a threat to a small animal. Campfires permitted.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

10 Minutes From Anna Maria

15. 10 Minutes From Anna Maria

100%

(22)

39km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

Are you seeking a tranquil retreat near the finest beaches in Southwest Florida? Look no further than this spacious RV pad, nestled within a lush fenced yard in a serene West Bradenton neighborhood. Our RV pad provides: Privacy Full sewer drainage Easy water hookup 20, 30, and 50 amp power outlets. Convenient access to both Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island in either direction Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience at our secluded oasis.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$80

/ night

Heart of Cortez

16. Heart of Cortez

100%

(22)

44km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

RV parking spot in the heart of historic Cortez! 50amp plug on dedicated circuit breaker. Potable water hookup. Wifi included. Walk to 12 local restaurants and the Cortez Maritime Museum. Kroger refrigerated grocery delivery. 3 blocks to Cortez bridge, with free trolley on Anna Maria Island, running from 6am to 10pm daily. New water taxi on Anna Maria Island to tip of island and downtown Bradenton (only $6!). 2 houses from the bay. Quiet, dead end street.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$89

/ night

DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

17. DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

98%

(25)

45km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

Pristine property located on US 19 in Terra Ceia. Surround yourself in a canopy of Oak Trees, Cattle, and Old Florida Charm...Park your RV under our covered awning which can accommodate a large 40'+ rig with sliders...site includes Water and Power. No Internet Service available on property. This property is Private with Owner on Site. Conveniently located near St. Petersburg, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Anna Maria Island. Come experience the Serenity that this Private Property Gives!

Full hookups

from

$54

/ night

Bratty Paws Dog Plex

18. Bratty Paws Dog Plex

95%

(11)

46km from Myakka River State Park · 4 units · Motorhomes

We are a dog sports training and event center specializing in dog agility events. Our facility offers RV hookups for exhibitors and campers and is conveniently located just two minutes off I-75, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Our ten-acre property features well-maintained grounds and ample green space for you and your dog to enjoy. We also offer a dog dock diving pool, available during business hours for an additional fee. To assist with property entry and exit, please find a site layout included in the attached pictures.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$55

/ night

Area 61 Camping

19. Area 61 Camping

99%

(97)

46km from Myakka River State Park · 12 units · Tents

Area 61 is a natural 5 acre property with a creek that feeds into the Peace River. We have many different types of wild life that visit including white tail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos and all types of birds including owls. We also have access to the Peace River for canoeing and kayaking trips. Along the creek we also have several terraced waterfalls that provide a wonderful wetland area for the wildlife.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$50

/ night

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

20. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

93%

(96)

47km from Myakka River State Park · 5 units · Tents, Glamping

Welcome to Sandy Bottom River Retreat – Your Private Escape into Nature’s Serenity Discover the perfect blend of peace, adventure, and natural beauty at Sandy Bottom River Retreat. Tucked away in the heart of Wimauma’s untouched wilderness, this secluded hideaway offers private river access and a truly off-the-grid camping experience surrounded by towering pines, lush palmettos, and the soothing sounds of the great outdoors. Enjoy a refreshing dip, launch your kayak or tube, or simply unwind along the golden sandy riverbank where the water sparkles knee-deep and crystal clear. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, rabbits, otters, and a colorful array of native birds that make this retreat their home. While you’ll feel miles away from everything, modern conveniences are just minutes away—restaurants, shops, and deliveries from Walmart, Instacart, or Amazon can reach you in no time. Two of our campsites sit directly on the river, while the others are a short, scenic walk away. Please note that this is a rustic, amenity-free experience designed for true nature lovers. The area is rural and neighbors may occasionally ride ATVs or enjoy target practice on their own land. For safety and peace of mind, outdoor cameras are placed around the property to help ensure the protection of our guests and the land. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for hunting, shooting, or archery on site to preserve the peaceful environment for all. Looking for a private event booking or clothing-optional friendly stay? Contact us in advance to reserve one of our coveted riverfront sites or inquire about exclusive property rentals. Come reconnect with nature, recharge your spirit, and experience camping the way it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

93% (14)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Myakka River State Park adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Top-rated campgrounds near Myakka River State Park

Costa Myakka

100%

(100)

12km from Myakka River State Park · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$55

/ night

Scenic Waterway [NOT Active]

96%

(36)

23km from Myakka River State Park · 10 units · Motorhomes

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$25

/ night

Two Tall Pines

97%

(35)

23km from Myakka River State Park · 2 units · Motorhomes

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$45

/ night

Bayou Bliss

100%

(51)

26km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$60

/ night

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(295)

31km from Myakka River State Park · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$55

/ night

N N Farms

98%

(22)

32km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Glamping

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$77

/ night

Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

33km from Myakka River State Park · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Pets

Campfires

Showers

from

$32

/ night

Brainy And Footsy Beach Pad

96%

(13)

33km from Myakka River State Park · 2 units · Motorhomes

Pets

Full hookups

from

$55

/ night

Rasayana Cove

98%

(315)

37km from Myakka River State Park · 2 units · Glamping

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$95

/ night

Privacy in Fort Ogden

99%

(135)

39km from Myakka River State Park · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

10 Minutes From Anna Maria

100%

(22)

39km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

Pets

Full hookups

from

$80

/ night

Heart of Cortez

100%

(22)

44km from Myakka River State Park · 1 unit · Motorhome

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$89

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Bonnie

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Acres Glamping Retreat

I loved this place! Perfectly taken care of and so clean. The bed was so comfortable. I had to peek at the mattress to figure out what it was and I will be getting one for my house.

We went on a hike and fell in love with the beautiful bald cypress trees and roots

Jose Manuel Enrique

1 week ago

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

Cozy little cabin. Perfect place to disconnect from everyday life. Host had everything ready for us to have a comfortable stay. 10/10 would come again

Nateo

2 weeks ago

5 m Class C

1 night at Bayou Bliss

Steph accommodated us very last minute. We wld have been parking in Walmart parking lot for the night had she not, but she did.🌌

Amber

2 weeks ago

6 m campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

It was a lovely stay, clean property, great hosts.

Meagan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

We had a great time! Kids had so much fun and really loved the cows and tortoises too! Would definitely go back! Was a very peaceful and beautiful area.

2 weeks ago

8 m Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heart of Cortez

Perfect little spot for a night en-route south. We arrived and headed straight out to the swordfish grill which was a great spot for a cocktail and supper. We left early the next morning via breakfast at the beach nearby - thank you to the hosts for a great overnight stay.

Sandra

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at J and P Creekside Retreat

We had a good experience; the campsite is spacious and has plenty of shade. The bathroom was clean and close to our tent. John was very attentive. We had a problem with our inflatable mattress and had to buy a new one, but luckily, and very conveniently, there's a Walmart only 20 minutes away. The only thing we didn't like is that for us, the camping experience is about connecting with nature, but the constant noise of passing cars disrupted that connection. We would come back, but to a different campsite. Overall, we enjoyed it.

Teaira

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

This cozy cabin was amazing! This place had so many amenities and the host was so kind.

Torrie Moxie

2 weeks ago

7 m Class B

6 nights at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

This spot was exactly what we were looking for. The amenities were great, electric hookup, water, and a bathroom with a shower, which made the stay very comfortable. The farm itself was adorable. The horses were beautiful, and we loved spotting a peacock wandering around the property. It was a short drive to the beaches, yet still far enough away to enjoy wonderfully dark skies for stargazing at night. We also enjoyed having nighttime fires, with firewood conveniently available for purchase on-site. Overall, it was a perfect little getaway for my partner, our pets, and me. We’d absolutely stay again.

Kathleen

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at J and P Creekside Retreat

Beautiful campground. John and family are very accommodating. Would definitely stay here again of in town.

Ashley

2 weeks ago

Tent

7 nights at J and P Creekside Retreat

John, his wife Patty, and son John are all so wonderful! Extremely family friendly with lots of activities if you have kids, and REAL dog lovers. If you're looking for the perfect peaceful relaxing getaway for ALL your family members look no further. Dogs are allowed off leash and our dog felt very much at home and happy to have so many new friends! We were so at peace we extended our stay. We had 2 different sites that I'd strongly recommend. The Hideaway was stellar and felt like a literal hideaway! Cute and tucked away with a shady spot with a hammock. Shadie Oaks was exactly how it sounds, wonderful and shady and an extra nice big space with plenty of room in the sun! Both spaces have a fire pit, some chairs, and a picnic table. You're not far from town to get more supplies or ice, but it feels like you're out in the middle of nowhere. Potable water isn’t available, but electric is provided and an amazing outdoor shower! Very nice bathroom as well. Highly recommend getting wood from them too. Got a huge bundles and well worth the price. It was a very pleasant stay. If peace, quiet, and relaxation is what you're looking for you've found THE place you NEED to stay. It helped going out on the river a few times as well. The kayak rentals are VERY reasonable. We had fun taking our dog out on the tandem kayak! Fixed us right up and we're looking forward to our next trip because we plan on visiting again in the future!

Andrew

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

Off grid camping with a hot (gas) shower and stove. Beautiful Oak trees dressed in Spanish Mosh, it’s was an ideal getaway for our natural loving weekend, clean and well maintained. We recommend!

Beth

3 weeks ago

4 m campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

Of all the places I've booked on Hip Camp, this is number one. You can see how much love and care has gone into this place. It truly is a peaceful retreat. Love it here. Staying as long as I can.

3 weeks ago

9 m Class C

With kids

2 nights at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

This campsite makes you feel like you're a hundred miles from anyone yet your only a few miles away from everything.

Rick

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Sandy Bottom River Retreat

As always, an excellent camping experience, very connected with the natural environment here. Love being near the river! Also, the new fire pits are a nice touch. I will definitely be back, was a great camping trip overall, and perfect weather for it. Thanks again, Kira!

Linda

3 weeks ago

6 m campervan

Weekend Trip to DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

Perfect spot just outside of the hustle and bustle. Excellent communication and very friendly bulls.

Cathi

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

Took my friend who had only been camping once in 84 years- she's still talking about what an incredible place it was. The A-frame has everything you could need for a comfortable stay. Can't wait to return!

Andrew

December 2025

Tent

1 night at J and P Creekside Retreat

Very nice host and property! The hideaway spot was a perfect private spot to spend the night as we traveled north.

Morgan

December 2025

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

Beautiful land and cute little cabin on the property. We loved the fire pit. Checked out peace river fossils nearby as well

haylen

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

Amazing location and amenities. Super friendly host, will be back!!

The best campsites in Myakka River State Park, FL guide

Overview

About

Myakka River State Park shelters its namesake river with 58 square miles of hammocks, pine forests, and wildlife-filled wetlands. Campers flock here to spot rare creatures like the roseate spoonbill, the West Indian manatee, and the Florida panther, but the park’s most notorious inhabitants are its American alligators. Kayaking, canoeing, and guided airboat rides are popular ways to explore, as are the birdwalk boardwalks and the mountain biking and hiking trails deep in the backcountry. If you prefer more space between you and the gators, try the canopy walkway and treetop lookout tower. All Myakka River campsites feature 50-amp full hookups, picnic tables, and a fire ring.

Notable campgrounds

Best for families: Both the Old Prairie Campground and Palmetto Ridge Campground have laundry services and hot showers.
Best for lake lovers and hikers: The Big Flats Campground is right next to the Upper Myakka Lake.
Best for glamping: Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Myakka River log cabins will keep you covered and cozy.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Like at other Florida state parks, all campsites at Myakka River State Park can be reserved online or over the phone. Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
Same-day reservations are also available online or by phone up to 1pm ET. After that, any remaining open sites are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
If in doubt about walk-in availability, it’s best to call the park.

When to go

Myakka River State Park is accessible year-round, but the summer heat, humidity, and rain can be tough for tent campers unaccustomed to South Florida’s tropical weather. Winters are more mild and pleasant, but bug spray and good hydration are necessary year-round.

Know before you go

This scenic river park is set about 20 miles east of Sarasota.
Boat tours run daily on the Upper Myakka Lake. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available on-site.
To hike or paddle to the Deep Hole, a popular gator hangout, arrive at the ranger station early—it opens at 8am and only 30 permits are issued daily.
The park café and camp store sell groceries and camping equipment.

93%

14 Ratings · 3 reviews

December 2019

Big Flats Campground

Quiet, shaded campground. Handicap accessible, paved campsites, restrooms and showers. Camp store has grill with good burgers and craft beer on tap but not any real camp provisions. Hike about 6 miles round trip to Deep Hole to in beautiful wilderness area and watch alligators as close as you dare :) Get permit at Ranger station to enter wilderness area. Boat ride on river is completely handicap accessible. View huge alligators closeup from comfort of boat sunning on shore, learn about their habits and biology. Suspension bridge climb is also awesome but requires strong knees!

Kathleen F.

7 reviews

Recommends

· December 2018

Big Flats Campground

Tent area is fairly small but scenic, and across from open area with RV's. 1/2 mile from bike and kayak rentals and camp store.

Loreli E.

7 years on Hipcamp

March 2017

Favorite. State. Park. I primitive camped a year ago at the Mossy Oak Campsite and it was perfect! Two-mile hike in and plenty of space to set up camp under a beautiful hammock so there's plenty of shade cover. The park itself has 39 miles of hiking trails, look-out points, cycling opportunities, as well as kayak and canoe rentals (or bring your own!) for jaunts down the Myakka River. There are other primitive sites that require a further hike-in but are sometimes unavailable due to flooding so call ahead and ask about conditions! You really can't go wrong at any campsite, primitive or not.