Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

4.29

10 reviews

P O Box 491, 2555 S River Road, Englewood, Florida, 34223, United States

Featured in:Winter Camping Florida

Quick Facts

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Florida Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Florida Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

$20.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Primitive campsite fees range from $20 to $35 depending on the location and season.

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$35.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.29

Satisfactory

Based on 10 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryhikingsites

"User reviews highlight the remote and natural feel of the campsites. The River Campsite is particularly well-regarded, though some users note differences in ground quality and amenities among the sites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P O Box 491, 2555 S River Road, Englewood, Florida, 34223, United States

Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

P O Box 491, 2555 S River Road, Englewood, Florida, 34223, United States

Driving directionsTake Exit 191 off of I-75. Go south toward Englewood for 9.5 miles; the forest entrance is on the left. Upon entering the forest, continue on for 1.2 miles, and Trailhead Parking will be on the left. Hiking distance to each campsite is: Myakka River Campsite: approximately 3.2 miles via the North Loop trail (or 2.4 miles from East River Road parking lot); Flatwoods Campsite: approximately 1.9 miles via the North Loop trail; Watering Hole Campsite: approximately 1.5 miles via the South Loop, then Foresman trail; Pine Straw Campsite: approximately 2.5 miles via the South Loop trail; Mangrove Campsite: approximately 3.3 miles via the North Loop trail (or 2.3 miles from the East River Road parking lot).

Road access is paved to the Trailhead Parking lot. Seasonal conditions may result in muddy trails or standing water, particularly during the rainy season.

Nearby places

Sarasota (~1 hour drive), Venice (~30 minutes drive), Port Charlotte (~40 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Closest groceries, fuel, and supplies available in Englewood (~15 minutes drive). Firewood is available for purchase at the Camp Host and Ranger Station.

Best Time to Camp at Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

Time your wilderness adventure for the magical dry season, when winter transforms these forests into a camper's paradise. From November through April, crystal-clear skies dominate the forecast, with temperatures hovering in that sweet spot between 56°F and 75°F—perfect for both crisp morning hikes and comfortable afternoon explorations. While summer's rainy season can transform trails into muddy waterways and test even seasoned outdoors enthusiasts, winter and spring reveal the forest at its most accessible and inviting, when every path beckons and every sunrise promises another day of discovery.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.5 / 5

Wet season with muddy trails and standing water can reduce accessibility and comfort.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Transitional season; trail conditions improve versus summer and wildlife viewing varies.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring can be pleasant but may bring increasing humidity, bugs and variable trail conditions.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in FL

Dry season (Nov–Apr) praised: crystal-clear skies, comfortable conditions and peak use.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season pricing may apply during winter months and holidays.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

Deep within Sarasota County's wilderness, Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry escape. Five secluded, hike-in tent sites—River, Flatwoods, Watering Hole, Pine Straw, and Mangrove—each tell their own story of Florida's untamed beauty. Here, where the only sounds are bird calls and rustling palmetto fronds, visitors can cast lines into pristine waters, traverse ancient hiking trails, and witness spectacular wildlife encounters. Whether you're paddling through mirror-like creeks at dawn or watching herons fish in the golden evening light, this remote sanctuary offers the kind of raw, unfiltered Florida that has all but vanished from the modern landscape.

The campground offers a primitive camping experience suitable for tent campers only. Campsites include Myakka River, Flatwoods, Watering Hole, Pine Straw, and Mangrove, all of which require hike-in access except for the River site, which has boat access.

Historical SignificanceThe legendary Myakka River, honored with designations as both an Outstanding Florida Water and a Wild and Scenic River, has witnessed centuries of human and natural history unfold along its banks. This liquid highway has sustained indigenous peoples, early settlers, and countless generations of wildlife, earning its place among Florida's most treasured waterways. Beyond the forest boundaries, echoes of the past await at the Lemon Bay Historical Society and the iconic Boca Grande Lighthouse, where maritime tales and pioneer stories add rich layers to your camping adventure.

Weather and SeasonsTime your wilderness adventure for the magical dry season, when winter transforms these forests into a camper's paradise. From November through April, crystal-clear skies dominate the forecast, with temperatures hovering in that sweet spot between 56°F and 75°F—perfect for both crisp morning hikes and comfortable afternoon explorations. While summer's rainy season can transform trails into muddy waterways and test even seasoned outdoors enthusiasts, winter and spring reveal the forest at its most accessible and inviting, when every path beckons and every sunrise promises another day of discovery.

ElevationThe gentle, nearly imperceptible changes in elevation throughout the forest create subtle microclimates and diverse ecosystems that reward observant campers with constantly shifting perspectives and habitats.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living gallery of mesic flatwoods, where towering longleaf and slash pines create natural cathedrals overhead, their needle-carpeted floors telling stories of fire, renewal, and resilience. Depression marshes dot the landscape like nature's own reflecting pools, transforming into bustling theaters of life where great blue herons stalk through the shallows and wood storks gather in prehistoric assemblages. The Myakka River and Myakkahatchee Creek wind through this tapestry like silver threads, their tea-colored waters reflecting clouds by day and stars by night, offering paddlers intimate encounters with Old Florida at every bend.

Geological RegionThis remarkable ecosystem showcases Florida's signature mesic flatwoods in their full glory, where ancient longleaf pines and sturdy slash pines have adapted to centuries of natural fire cycles. The forest floor reveals a complex mosaic of slightly elevated pine islands interspersed with seasonal depression marshes—geological features that fill with life-giving water during wet seasons and concentrate wildlife during drier months. These subtle variations in topography, carved by millennia of water flow and weather patterns, create the diverse habitats that make this forest a haven for everything from tiny tree frogs to majestic sandhill cranes.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in: 2 PM

Check-out

Check-out: 11 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people allowed per campsite.

Groups

Group camping is not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are scattered throughout the forest and accessible via hiking trails.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via official Florida state park websites or by contacting the Ranger Station.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited to availability; walk-up sites fill quickly during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies may apply; contact the Ranger Station or reservation platform for specifics.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not described in the provided sources.

Site SizeAll sites are tent-only and primitive.

PrivacyNo detailed information on privacy is mentioned; sites are scattered and hike-in.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesMangrove Campsite is accessible via a shorter hike from East River Road parking lot. River Campsite has paddle access from the Myakka River.

Amenities available

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and paddling. The Myakka State Forest features 40 miles of multi-use trails accessible for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Hiking"Myakka State Forest contains over 40 miles of multi-use trails." Specific hike distances to campsites include: Myakka River Campsite (3.2 miles), Flatwoods Campsite (1.9 miles), Watering Hole Campsite (1.5 miles), Pine Straw Campsite (2.5 miles), and Mangrove Campsite (3.3 miles).

FishingFishing is permitted and accessible by foot, but requires a proper license. The Myakka River and Myakkahatchee Creek offer fishing opportunities.

BikingMulti-use trails are open for off-road bicycling as part of the recreational activities.

Boating"The Myakka River passes through the forest, offering boating, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities." Not all campsites have direct river access.

Wildlife viewing"The flatwoods and marshes provide many opportunities for viewing wading birds and other wildlife." Camping and hiking enhance wildlife viewing experiences.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential wildlife hazards include raccoons and other forest animals. Seasonal flooding or muddy trails may pose challenges. No swimming is allowed in the forest.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed using fallen wood; firewood is available for purchase.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours not specified.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station within Myakka State Forest (contact number: null); additional emergency services in Englewood, including hospitals and police.

Trash & RecyclingCampers must store food securely to deter wildlife; no specified trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesClose to Myakka River and Myakkahatchee Creek; no swimming permitted.

Camp HostFirewood available for purchase at Camp Host or Ranger Station.

Weather at Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

Reviews

4.3

10 reviews

Satisfactory

Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the remote and natural feel of the campsites. The River Campsite is particularly well-regarded, though some users note differences in ground quality and amenities among the sites.

Review Summaries

Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the natural scenery and the opportunity to engage in activities like hiking, bird watching, and fishing. Some campsites, such as the River Campsite, are noted for their pleasant...

Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

One user review mentions limited access to the river and water views at some campsites, as well as the absence of standing grills or other conveniences. Grass quality at certain sites is less...

Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Be prepared for hike-in access; the approximate distances range from 1.5 to 3.3 miles depending on the site." Campers are also advised not to leave valuables in their vehicles.

Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Trails can become muddy or have standing water during the wet season, impacting accessibility. Wildlife viewing varies by season, with wading birds being a highlight in marshy areas.

Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The River Campsite in the same area is much nicer. Access to the river and water views are limited (there's no dock here)." - Brad Loncar

Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

"The River Campsite’s pine needle-covered ground is a preferred feature compared to the grass at other sites."

Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not reviewed or highlighted by users.

Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and this is appreciated by pet owners, though specific experiences are not detailed.

Based on 10 reviews

0 review

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Last updated February 17, 2026

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