The best ranch campgrounds near Palmetto, Florida

Camping around Palmetto places campers close to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the mangrove forests that dip over lakes and estuaries on the Cocohatchee River. Many state parks dot the area, like Terra Ceia Preserve State Park, Lake Manatee State Park, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass, where campers can hike, fish, snorkel, paddle, and spot local wildlife. Hot and humid summers are perfect for swimming and boating, while cooler spring and winter seasons make a comfortable climate for hiking and mountain biking. No matter when you arrive, nearby campsites feature modern amenities like wifi and hot showers.

99% (618)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping around Palmetto places campers close to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the mangrove forests that dip over lakes and estuaries on the Cocohatchee River. Many state parks dot the area, like Terra Ceia Preserve State Park, Lake Manatee State Park, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass, where campers can hike, fish, snorkel, paddle, and spot local wildlife. Hot and humid summers are perfect for swimming and boating, while cooler spring and winter seasons make a comfortable climate for hiking and mountain biking. No matter when you arrive, nearby campsites feature modern amenities like wifi and hot showers.

99% (618)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. By the Pond...

97%

(735)

16mi from Palmetto · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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!

2. Costa Myakka

99%

(98)

26mi from Palmetto · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

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

98%

(127)

36mi from Palmetto · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Lithia, FL

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!

4. Tranquil Oaks Ranch

11mi from Palmetto · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lakewood Ranch, FL

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.

5. DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

98%

(24)

3.5mi from Palmetto · 1 site · RV · Terra Ceia, FL

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!

6. Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

29mi from Palmetto · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Myakka City, FL

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!

7. Medulla Ranch

48mi from Palmetto · 11 sites · Tents · Lakeland, FL

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.

8. WillShayr Ranch

19mi from Palmetto · 2 sites · RVs · Myakka City, FL

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!

Camper favorites near Palmetto

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tranquil Oaks Ranch

11mi from Palmetto · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lakewood Ranch, FL

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.

DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

98%

(24)

3.5mi from Palmetto · 1 site · RV · Terra Ceia, FL

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!

Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

29mi from Palmetto · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Myakka City, FL

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!

Medulla Ranch

48mi from Palmetto · 11 sites · Tents · Lakeland, FL

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.

WillShayr Ranch

19mi from Palmetto · 2 sites · RVs · Myakka City, FL

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!

Stories from the community

Bradley

2 weeks ago

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

2 weeks ago

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.

2 weeks ago

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

2 weeks ago

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

2 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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.

S

Steven

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

Lots of open flat land to choose from by the pond. Fruit trees cover the area, local bees making honey. We enjoyed seeing the pigs, chickens and giny hens. It was a nice relaxed 2 nights. For those that may under pack, or forget stuff, this farm is minutes from the loud world.

Chad

August 2025

25 ft campervan

4 nights at By the Pond...

Wonderful and knowledgeable host free to answer any questions and help in anyway. Great time there.

A

Anna

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

We had an absolutely lovely time while camping here. We stayed at the site next to the dock, and if we hadn’t been fully attacked by a swarm of mosquitoes when we arrived on the first night while trying to set up our tent, and if it wasn’t hotter than hell the next day, I would say it was the perfect camping trip (both things that were out of our control and should not reflect on the land itself). The land itself was lovely, there was a fire pit and portopotties there for cooking and onsite bathrooms. Mike the host was also wonderful, very down to Earth caring guy who made sure we had everything we need, and also gave us some beautiful mangos and firewood from the land to use while were there, so thanks again Mike, your a great host. All in all we had a great time and I would definitely recommend this place for a nice peaceful camping getaway in the Tampa Bay Area. We’ll be back again :-)

R

Robin

July 2025

30 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to DragonFly Island 5/0 Terra Ceia

Thanks for letting us camp here. Really nice place. view of the pasture and couple fun cows that like to visit.

D

David

July 2025

13 ft travel trailer

9 nights at By the Pond...

Beautiful, lush tropical setting with amazing sunsets (no snakes or gators). The site I had was private and roomy with a fire ring. Primitive camping with every imaginable modern convenience just a few minutes away (Home Depot, Publix, WalMart, fast food, mexican, BBQ, etc. etc.) Host was kind, courteous, accommodating and knowledgeable. I was there to fish and I had my choice between fresh water on the property and excellent salt water ( in shore and out) very nearby. Not only would I go back but I plan to.

Grey Wolf Camper looking to left at doorway

A

Alexander

June 2025

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

Had a great time during my stay in the camper. Mike was an amazing host and the property is beautiful. Loved seeing all the fruits, fowls, and a few piglets while walking the trail.

M

Miss

June 2025

Tent

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

It is gorgeous. I mean the views are spectacular. Nicest people. Clean, well kept and accommodating. I got to relax. I love how loving the cats are. Grounds are kept nice. No trees where I set up my tent so I was able to enjoy my surroundings views of the sky and the sunset. The horses. I would definitely recommend this place. Everything was perfect. There are so many parks and aces to fish. It is such a nice location. Thank you again and again. Also, the horses were well behaved and they show you the horses. You can give them noses scratches and visit them if you'd like. Carrots, they like carrots and pieces of apple.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Palmetto guide

Where to go

Terra Ceia Preserve State Park

Just 12 minutes north of Palmetto, sandwiched between Terra Ceia Bay and Tampa Bay, Terra Ceia Preserve State Park is a sanctuary for wildlife. Campers who love to birdwatch wil find blue herons, white ibis, bald eagles, and spoonbills. The park offers nine miles of hiking trails and year-round fishing (with a license) in Terra Ceia Bay. Magical and mysterious mangrove forests hang over creeks and streams, perfect for paddling through natural tunnels created by their drooping branches and rising roots. Bishop Harbor Road and Stotz Road feature boat, canoe, and kayak launches. There’s no camping within the park, but private campsites nearby have tent and RV campsites with hookups and potable water.

Lake Manatee State Park

Though there are no manatees in Lake Manatee, there’s still plenty of camping fun to be had at Lake Manatee State Park. Stay at tent and RV (up to 65 feet) campsites right in the park within walking distance to the beach where pets are welcome to join for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing from land. Campsites with water and electric hookups, a dump station, firepits, and picnic tables can be reserved online up to 11 months in advance. Bike along 2.5 miles of paved biking road, or take it off-road for a mountain biking challenge with bikes available to rent in the park. (Cyclists under 16 need to wear helmets.)

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park’s claim to fame is a wealth of boating opportunities through Cocohatchee River estuaries leading directly to the Gulf. Explore Turkey Bay by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, or search for shells on the ADA-accessible beaches with reservable wheelchairs. Or scuba dive and snorkel along Delnor-Wiggins Pass’ hard-bottom reef. Nearby campsites range from RV campsites with 50-amp hookups and wifi to primitive campsites.

When to go

October to March is generally considered camping season in Florida, when dense, muggy air cools in the evening for a more comfortable climate. Summers in Palmetto have an average daily temp above 86°F with hot and mostly cloudy skies. Short winters (from December to February) are cool and windy, rarely rising above 74°F. Florida camping is available year-round, and the ideal time depends on your preferences.