The best ranch campgrounds near Bradenton, Florida

The cozy coastal city of Bradenton welcomes campers to explore caverns, caves, and high ropes. Dive into under-the-sea snorkel tours with manatees and dolphins, or ride horseback along the beach. For the land lovers, trek up to TreeUmph! Adventure Course for an all-you-can-swing adventure featuring climbing, suspension bridges, and zipline courses, or get some history at DeSoto National Memorial. With cabin rentals, campgrounds, glamping, and waterside options, camping near Bradenton offers everything under the sun for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

99% (624)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bradenton

The cozy coastal city of Bradenton welcomes campers to explore caverns, caves, and high ropes. Dive into under-the-sea snorkel tours with manatees and dolphins, or ride horseback along the beach. For the land lovers, trek up to TreeUmph! Adventure Course for an all-you-can-swing adventure featuring climbing, suspension bridges, and zipline courses, or get some history at DeSoto National Memorial. With cabin rentals, campgrounds, glamping, and waterside options, camping near Bradenton offers everything under the sun for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

99% (624)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bradenton

1. DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

98%

(25)

5.9mi from Bradenton · 1 site · RV

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!

2. By the Pond...

97%

(740)

18mi from Bradenton · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

3. Costa Myakka

99%

(99)

25mi from Bradenton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

4. Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

29mi from Bradenton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

5. T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

98%

(128)

38mi from Bradenton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family. Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We are offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property. You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavilions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! Learn more about this land: We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family.  Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We  offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property.  You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavillions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! We can accommodate two, 30 amp & one, 50 amp site plus four, 20 amps or less at this time. We do not have a septic black tank hook up for RVs or campers. We do have a bathroom in the barn with a working toilet and sink but no shower.  We do have plenty of room for campers, tents, and RVs!

6. Tranquil Oaks Ranch

11mi from Bradenton · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Tranquil Oaks near the Gulf Coast! Secluded camping only 5 minutes from Lake Manatee State Park. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, s'mores by the fire pit, and experience a slice of old Florida charm while being only 10 minutes from I-75 and 40 minutes from the world-renowned white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island. Your site includes a large concrete patio with a picnic table, Adirondack chairs, and a fire pit. This secluded RV/tent campsite offers electric and you can fill up your water tank with our hose. The site is located next to our cattle ranch, and you will likely see our sweet herd of cows grazing in a nearby pasture (some of the friendly ones may come up to the fence to say hi). This offers you privacy while still being close to I-75 and all the modern conveniences (Publix supermarket is 1 mile away). We are third generation cattle ranchers here in beautiful Bradenton, Florida, and on our property you'll find many species of palm trees and tropical plants. Mornings are filled with birdsong, and you may see Sandhill Cranes, Ospreys, White Ibis, or even a Roseate Spoonbill -- and of course the rabbits, lizards and monarch butterflies that also enjoy this special little slice of paradise. We live in the house next door to the campsite, and you'll likely see Ryan around the property working during your stay. Our ranch offers you a chance to relax and reconnect with nature, while only being minutes from restaurants and convenience stores; 15 minutes from University Town Center, 15 minutes from Ellenton Outlets, and 30 minutes to downtown Sarasota.

7. WillShayr Ranch

18mi from Bradenton · 2 sites · RVs

Peaceful Country Oasis in Myakka City Welcome to a peaceful oasis nestled among mature oak trees and whispering pines. This property is non-smoking, both inside and out. Located in the quiet countryside of Myakka City, you’re just 10 minutes from all the amenities of Lakewood Ranch. A short drive brings you to restaurants, state parks, Hunsader Farms, Fiorelli Winery, weekend farmers markets, weekly live entertainment, and more! We are currently welcoming adult guests only to maintain a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere. The Setting You’ll see miniature cows and goats grazing in the beautiful pastures surrounding the campsite. Enjoy peaceful walks down scenic country roads and unwind by the large fire pit beside your private 450-square-foot covered area — all yours during your stay. Bring your folding chairs, hammock, and a good book for the perfect country retreat. Amenities • Parking for one RV (you’ll be our only guests) • Additional parking space available for a pickup truck • Propane grill provided • Access to a full-size washer and dryer • Plenty of space for kayaks, bikes, or other gear • 50-amp electric hookup, potable water, and weekly trash removal • No sewer hookup (options include: using your RV’s facilities, our private camp toilet, or commode liners) • Dump station available for a small fee just 3 minutes away at Hunsader Farms Pets Pets are welcome if leashed and cleaned up after. We have one friendly dog (always leashed when walking the property) and a barn cat who roams freely and loves attention. If you have any questions, just ask — we’re happy to help make your stay comfortable and relaxing!

8. Campbells Camper

100%

(1)

49mi from Bradenton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Sunsets are a highlight and put on an amazing show to sit back and enjoy. The stars are so bright at night and you cannot hear the city. Just minutes away from boat slips into the Peace River, nearby the gulf and our nearest neighbors are a horse and a tiny pony.

9. Medulla Ranch

49mi from Bradenton · 11 sites · Tents

Our camping area is surrounded by trees so you won’t even realize that you are close to everything. You are only 9 minutes (4.9 mi.) away from the Sun-N-Fun Fly In, less than that for restaurants, 6 minutes (2.3 mi.) from Walmart and Home Depot is less than a mile away too! Many denominations of churches are also within 10 minutes of camping. Walt Disney World, Busch gardens and Sea World are all approximately 45 minutes away. There are many parks, hiking and bike trails within a few minute drive. We have an outhouse (with a modern toilet), an outdoor heated shower, a cute “Clubhouse” (a converted 1950s camper) for small social gatherings and 2 community fire pits. Electricity is available at the Clubhouse for small appliances and charging electronics. There are several shared water faucets that run off our well. We hope that this is a quiet relaxing place. Our quiet times are: weekdays at 9pm and weekends 12am. Being this is a smaller place, we only have 1 public outhouse and 1 shower. They both are first come-first served. The “clubhouse” is available by reservation only. Being there are exotic animals on site (all are caged and not visible), no pets are allowed. Courteousness will make this a very enjoyable stay. We have lived on this property securely since the early 70’s. We hold NO LIABILITY on people or acts of God.

Camper favorites near Bradenton

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

29mi from Bradenton · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

98%

(128)

38mi from Bradenton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family. Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We are offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property. You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavilions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! Learn more about this land: We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family.  Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We  offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property.  You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavillions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! We can accommodate two, 30 amp & one, 50 amp site plus four, 20 amps or less at this time. We do not have a septic black tank hook up for RVs or campers. We do have a bathroom in the barn with a working toilet and sink but no shower.  We do have plenty of room for campers, tents, and RVs!

Tranquil Oaks Ranch

11mi from Bradenton · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Tranquil Oaks near the Gulf Coast! Secluded camping only 5 minutes from Lake Manatee State Park. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, s'mores by the fire pit, and experience a slice of old Florida charm while being only 10 minutes from I-75 and 40 minutes from the world-renowned white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island. Your site includes a large concrete patio with a picnic table, Adirondack chairs, and a fire pit. This secluded RV/tent campsite offers electric and you can fill up your water tank with our hose. The site is located next to our cattle ranch, and you will likely see our sweet herd of cows grazing in a nearby pasture (some of the friendly ones may come up to the fence to say hi). This offers you privacy while still being close to I-75 and all the modern conveniences (Publix supermarket is 1 mile away). We are third generation cattle ranchers here in beautiful Bradenton, Florida, and on our property you'll find many species of palm trees and tropical plants. Mornings are filled with birdsong, and you may see Sandhill Cranes, Ospreys, White Ibis, or even a Roseate Spoonbill -- and of course the rabbits, lizards and monarch butterflies that also enjoy this special little slice of paradise. We live in the house next door to the campsite, and you'll likely see Ryan around the property working during your stay. Our ranch offers you a chance to relax and reconnect with nature, while only being minutes from restaurants and convenience stores; 15 minutes from University Town Center, 15 minutes from Ellenton Outlets, and 30 minutes to downtown Sarasota.

WillShayr Ranch

18mi from Bradenton · 2 sites · RVs

Peaceful Country Oasis in Myakka City Welcome to a peaceful oasis nestled among mature oak trees and whispering pines. This property is non-smoking, both inside and out. Located in the quiet countryside of Myakka City, you’re just 10 minutes from all the amenities of Lakewood Ranch. A short drive brings you to restaurants, state parks, Hunsader Farms, Fiorelli Winery, weekend farmers markets, weekly live entertainment, and more! We are currently welcoming adult guests only to maintain a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere. The Setting You’ll see miniature cows and goats grazing in the beautiful pastures surrounding the campsite. Enjoy peaceful walks down scenic country roads and unwind by the large fire pit beside your private 450-square-foot covered area — all yours during your stay. Bring your folding chairs, hammock, and a good book for the perfect country retreat. Amenities • Parking for one RV (you’ll be our only guests) • Additional parking space available for a pickup truck • Propane grill provided • Access to a full-size washer and dryer • Plenty of space for kayaks, bikes, or other gear • 50-amp electric hookup, potable water, and weekly trash removal • No sewer hookup (options include: using your RV’s facilities, our private camp toilet, or commode liners) • Dump station available for a small fee just 3 minutes away at Hunsader Farms Pets Pets are welcome if leashed and cleaned up after. We have one friendly dog (always leashed when walking the property) and a barn cat who roams freely and loves attention. If you have any questions, just ask — we’re happy to help make your stay comfortable and relaxing!

Campbells Camper

100%

(1)

49mi from Bradenton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Sunsets are a highlight and put on an amazing show to sit back and enjoy. The stars are so bright at night and you cannot hear the city. Just minutes away from boat slips into the Peace River, nearby the gulf and our nearest neighbors are a horse and a tiny pony.

Medulla Ranch

49mi from Bradenton · 11 sites · Tents

Our camping area is surrounded by trees so you won’t even realize that you are close to everything. You are only 9 minutes (4.9 mi.) away from the Sun-N-Fun Fly In, less than that for restaurants, 6 minutes (2.3 mi.) from Walmart and Home Depot is less than a mile away too! Many denominations of churches are also within 10 minutes of camping. Walt Disney World, Busch gardens and Sea World are all approximately 45 minutes away. There are many parks, hiking and bike trails within a few minute drive. We have an outhouse (with a modern toilet), an outdoor heated shower, a cute “Clubhouse” (a converted 1950s camper) for small social gatherings and 2 community fire pits. Electricity is available at the Clubhouse for small appliances and charging electronics. There are several shared water faucets that run off our well. We hope that this is a quiet relaxing place. Our quiet times are: weekdays at 9pm and weekends 12am. Being this is a smaller place, we only have 1 public outhouse and 1 shower. They both are first come-first served. The “clubhouse” is available by reservation only. Being there are exotic animals on site (all are caged and not visible), no pets are allowed. Courteousness will make this a very enjoyable stay. We have lived on this property securely since the early 70’s. We hold NO LIABILITY on people or acts of God.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Linda

1 week ago

20 ft 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.

R

Ramon

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

First time tent camping here and I loved it! Location was easy to find, site was clean and beautiful pond nearby. Also the owner the next day came by and introduced himself which was very nice. Will camp again!

J

Jeremiah

3 weeks ago

Tent

6 nights at T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

Gave us a place when nowhere else in the area was available. The minor electrical issues we had (not really the fault of the owner) were quickly resolved. Great atmosphere. The owner was communicative, and always made sure someone was on hand.

D

Deborah

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

It was a wonderful experience. It was calmong and peaceful. Rebecca, her husband Kery, and son were awesome hosts! We will definitely be back with our family. Love the fact it was dog friendly! Thank you so much it was it was exactly what my wife ordered!

P

Paul

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

awesome experience!! Mike was amazing and so accommodating. It was just what the family needed. I HIGHLY RECOMMED IT!

M

Milton

November 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at By the Pond...

Pleasant stay. Close to town, but still feels remote. Spot 7 was fine for a smaller camper, but if I did it again, I would choose spot 8 ( bit more room). The pond was beautiful, but difficult to see from all the growth. The location is near the interstate, but the traffic noise was surprisingly minimal. If you like old time florida citrus farms, this is your spot.

J

Jim

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at By the Pond...

It's quiet, in this spot you get a tropical kind of feeling with the banana trees. It is a nice size lot. Plenty of space.

Bradley

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at By the Pond...

It’s a GREAT little get away spot without the hassle of trying to find an open camp sight at one of the bigger state parks. The owners are very responsive and very personable. Would 10/10 recommend for anyone looking for a way to get away from their everyday drama.

B

Bradley

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

Always a great stay out here. Nothing better than listening to the owls and counting the stars!

S

Seth A.

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

The host were excellent and kind. Sweet spot to hide out for a couple days. Can conoe, fish, just sit around and enjoy the scenery. Kid friendly and just all around very nicely set up.

D

Dillon

November 2025

Tent

1 night at By the Pond...

Beautiful land and clean , well marked spots ! Mike was communicative , helpful and an all around kind soul who takes pride in his land. Great site overall!

J

Jim

November 2025

Tent

5 nights at By the Pond...

It's quiet, sites are spread well for privacy. The site I am in gives you a tropical feel with banana trees around it.

h

haylen

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

We loved the land here. Gorgeous, and very secluded! We even got to see the cows before we left. ❤️

N

Nathan

November 2025

25 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

We ended up on site 6 from site 5 but also used the dock site the first night, the host was very accommodating and checked in once or twice a day on his bike or vehicle. The water was nice to sit on and troll for fish with my kayak and the ground was very clean, the site numbers are hard to figure out bc the numbers are small but again accommodating enough to figure out. A little cramped when exiting with a diesel truck so slow is best to avoid hitting the top of camper with softer low limbs. Also my GPS took me through the neighborhood next door to reach the mailboxes where I ended up at the back gate, just follow the pond around and you will wind up on the road with the mailboxes.

M

Melanie

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

We were looking for a bit of green space close to home to unwind for the weekend, and this spot worked out nicely for that. It was easy to get to and had a peaceful feel once we settled in. You can hear some road noise in the background, but overall it was a nice, simple getaway and just what we needed to take a little break.

E

Elizabeth

November 2025

49 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

One of the best places we've stayed at! Tammi was very welcoming, the place itself was gorgeous.Perfect place to relax in the countryside.

L

Lisa

November 2025

21 ft Class B

2 nights at By the Pond...

Great place . Can’t get to lake to fish however . To grown over .

C

Carl

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

Great host!! Great bass and bream fishing!! Very private and peaceful.

Make soup with the plantain from the farm!

M

Marly

October 2025

Tent

1 night at By the Pond...

Beautiful farm and people, Mike was a great person helping us a lot, l bought some eggs and they are from free range chickens (delicious)we definitely comeback.

C

Capt. Fernando

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

We have been there on three separate occasions. Each has been a very pleasant and relaxing experience. We like to Boondock, and if we need air conditioning, we run our generators, but the property is ideal for enjoying nature, long walks, fishing, enjoying the plants, the wildlife, including the two little black pigs that run around lol ….the site is close to everything if you have to leave to go get supplies and come back it’s very easy and convenient to do so Mike is great and has always treated us very well. We look forward to our next visit.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Bradenton guide

Where to go

Palma Sola Bay

Wade west to Palma Sola Bay and get immersed in one of Florida’s wildlife preserves. With cabins, campgrounds, and RV resorts, this gorgeous stretch of land and sea provides the perfect place to set up camp. Home to nesting sites of sea turtles, campers may even catch baby turtles migrating toward the water alongside diverse fish species and birds overhead. If that’s not enough, Palma Sola Botanical Park is set by the Robinson Preserve, a great site for biking and nature walks with a large picnic area.

Myakka River State Park

Meander 30 miles southeast to Myakka River State Park for a chance to explore one of Florida’s largest and oldest parks. Campers can reserve on-site accommodations for tents and RVs, or opt for a quick visit with a day-pass. With the Myakka River flowing through its grounds, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing or hike, bike, and adventure the day away through the trails. Picturesque pines, sabal palm trees, and live oaks draw people and wildlife alike.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park

Best accessed by kayak or canoe, this slice of paradise protects more than 100 miles of shoreline with its marshes and mangrove forests. Explore upland areas with marked hiking trails to spot wildlife, then cross the bridge to Port Charlotte to find cabins, campgrounds, lodging, and private land options for an easy stay near park grounds. Only 75 minutes from Bradenton, this paddle trail preserve is a welcomed disconnect from life on land.

When to go

Florida’s fortunate climate of year-round warm temperatures make camping near Bradenton a delight any time. Tenting, backpacking, and car camping are most recommended between May and October with the humid high temperatures turning to evening chills in the opposing months. Though camping is easily accessible and certainly done year-round—it is the Sunshine State, after all—with higher temperatures come more mosquitos. Be prepared with protection during the early morning, dusk, and evening hours when they are most active.