The best camping near Oscar Scherer State Park

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

100% (9 reviews)

A natural gem hidden in the busy urban sprawl of Florida's Gulf Coast.

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Community favorites near Oscar Scherer State Park

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Stay at a public campground in Oscar Scherer State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Oscar Scherer State Park

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(603)

By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

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(90)

J and P Creekside Retreat

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

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(192)

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Englewood, FL

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!

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(59)

Area 61 Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Arcadia, FL

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.

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(57)

Tamiami Trails

6 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Ruskin, FL

RV sites located at an established petting zoo with common and exotic animals. Horseback riding is also available on site. Our property is centrally located with easy access to Tampa, St Pete, and Sarasota. Horse and hiking trails are all through native Florida landscaping. Short drive to well maintained boat ramps and marinas.

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(265)

Rasayana Cove

2 sites · Lodging25 acres · Ona, FL

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

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(53)

Costa Myakka

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Myakka City, FL

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!

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(122)

Camp Champ

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Zolfo Springs, FL

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek we have a dock for easy access where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe and trails to ride. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Tons of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, rent our RV or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room with ping pong, ring toss, wiffle ball, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm, treats $5. Fresh farm eggs $5. Kayak or canoe $50. ATV $150.

90%

(66)

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

5 sites · Tents8 acres · Wimauma, FL

Learn more about this land:Come relax and rejuvenate in our private peaceful oasis. Surround yourself with the tranquility of the woods and private river access in this very rustic, near amenity-less experience; home to towering pine trees, fluffy saw palmettos, soaring air plants, you name it! Looking to spot a few critters? You’ll likely encounter squirrels, rabbit and may even find an occasional deer or hog. Bird watchers welcome, it’s easy to spot real beauties in this quiet untouched gem. Make your way down to the river for tubing, canoeing, wading or just picnicking on the bank overlooking the pristine golden sandy bottom where the water is almost always just knee high. Need to pick up snacks? You’ll be pleased to find that delivery is just one click away via Walmart, Instacart, Amazon and more but you’re also just minutes away from shopping, restaurants, entertainment and the interstate is no more than a 10 minute drive from the property :-)

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(64)

Gulf Coast Getaway

6 sites · RVs5 acres · North Fort Myers, FL

Gulf Coast Getaway is located in North Fort Myers Florida. Our RV Sites are located on raised-up gravel sites with 50 AMP electric hook-ups and water hook-ups. If you have any additional questions please feel free to send us a message. :) We are centrally located in the rural area of the Bayshore Community with only a 5-minute drive to I-75, a 20-minute drive to Downtown Fort Myers, and a 20-minute drive to Babcock Ranch. Being only 5 minutes away from I-75 makes it quick and easy to either drive down south to Bonita Springs to enjoy our local beaches or north to Punta Gorda to explore! Downtown Fort Myers is about a 20-minute drive and has many local restaurants and shops if you want to go out and about. They typically have events on the weekends like Art Walk and Music Walk! We are a 20-minute drive from Babcock Ranch which is the first solar-powered town in America. It is a community open to the public that has several walking/biking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking/fishing, and a small dog park. They also have a restaurant (Lakehouse Kitchen & Bar) that looks out over the water and live entertainment on certain days of the week! If you are looking for a full farm-to-table experience, Buckingham Farms is 20 minutes from us and is a 85-acre farm with fresh produce grown hydroponically! We are also about 20 minutes from 31 Produce/Cracker Shack Cafe which is a local U-Pick farm that has seasonal fruits/vegetables available, as well as a restaurant, farm animals, and "gem mining"! With just a 1 to 2-minute drive, we have two parks, Nalle Grade Park and Pop Ash Creek Preserve, for those who enjoy nature walks, fishing, or birding. There are also a handful of other nature preserves and parks in the local area that are around a 20 to 25-minute drive! There are many other restaurants, parks, and local businesses nearby for you to enjoy if you want to get out and explore the local area! **We will interact as little or as much as you want.** ***We are a working farm/nursery open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 10am - 5pm*** ***We do NOT have an on-site dump station but there is a full-service Love's Travel Stop about 7 minutes away from us.***

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(36)

Norman B.’s Land

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Arcadia, FL

This property has been a horse stable since 2004. Has 11 stalls plus a 2 stall pasture board. Includes horse walker, round pen, 2 horse wash stall, and lighted arena.

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(84)

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

3 sites · RVs1 acre · St Petersburg, FL

Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.

The best camping near Oscar Scherer State Park guide

Overview

About

Freshwater lakes and wildlife viewing opportunities abound in this park just 30 minutes from Sarasota. Lake Osprey, near its center, is a quite popular spot for swimming. If you prefer sitting to swimming, hit up South Creek for canoeing and kayaking.

Hipcampers into birdwatching should definitely make time to seek out Florida scrub-jays here. These cute and friendly birds are only found in Florida. Oscar Scherer hosts one of the largest remaining populations of this threatened species. Majestic bald eagles also make their home in this area.

Other recreational activities include traveling the area's historic Legacy Trail. This 12.5-mile trail is fairly flat, making it a popular choice for leisurely bicycling.

It's also popular among train buffs, as it's built on a decommissioned railroad corridor. You can learn the corridor's history by reading the many informational plaques along the way.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Oscar Scherer State Park is during the cooler months from November to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the park is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience. Summer months can be hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain, which might hinder some outdoor activities.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Remember to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the Florida sun and bugs.
Accessibility is a priority, with facilities designed to accommodate all visitors.
Stay informed about park rules and regulations to preserve the natural environment.
Plan ahead and arrive early, as the park operates from 8:30am to 5pm daily.