Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites

Open — Open year-round with reservations available up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Peak season runs October through April. All campgrounds close if Sarasota County is placed under a Tropical Storm or Hurricane Warning.

About

Myakka State Forest Primitive Campsites offer an authentic backcountry camping experience within the 8,593-acre Myakka State Forest in Sarasota County, about an hour south of Sarasota. Five designated primitive campsites are scattered throughout the forest: River (3.2 miles via North Loop trail), Flatwoods (1.9 miles), Watering Hole (1.5 miles), Pine Straw (2.5 miles), and Mangrove (3.3 miles). All sites are hike-in only and require parking at the trailhead near the ranger station, except the River site which can also be accessed by boat or kayak via the Myakka River. Each site accommodates up to 8 people and costs approximately $8.85-$8.93 per night. The forest includes 2.5 miles of frontage on the Myakka River, designated as an Outstanding Florida Water and a Wild and Scenic River, plus 1.5 miles along Myakkahatchee Creek. The terrain is primarily mesic flatwoods with mature longleaf and slash pine, interspersed with depression marshes that attract wading birds and wildlife. Over 40 miles of multi-use trails traverse the property, open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Fishing is permitted along the river with proper licensing. Trails may be seasonally muddy with standing water. Public hunting occurs annually, so check MyFWC.com for dates. The forest is managed by the Florida Forest Service and reservations are made through ReserveAmerica up to 11 months in advance.

Directions

Take Exit 191 off I-75. Go south toward Englewood for 9.5 miles; the forest entrance is on the left. Continue 1.2 miles to trailhead parking on the left past the ranger station. Campsites require hikes of 1.5 to 3.3 miles from the trailhead.

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