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Venice: Down by the riverState parks are our usual destination when we head out across Florida in our RV, but the one exception, where we return time and again, is Camp Venice along the wild and scenic Myakka River. The tree canopy is so complete, you would actually think it is a state park! The tent area is nestled among live oaks, elegantly draped with Spanish Moss, and separated from the RV section by water. The RV sites are spacious and well-shaded by another old-growth oak hammock interspersed with hundreds of sabal palms. The big attraction here is the scenic Myakka River, which has coursed through 50 miles of wilderness by the time it reaches the campground. A short hiking trail takes you out to the main part of the river, or you can venture forth from your campsite in a canoe or kayak to miles and miles of undisturbed, uncluttered waterway, north and south of the camp. The subtropical vegetation along the undisturbed shoreline is breathtaking, dominated by oaks and palms. Tilapia is the choice of anglers along this leg of the river, although snook is quite a popular catch. A short walk (or paddle) upstream takes you to a classic old Florida fish shack on the banks of the Myakka, Snook Haven, where daily musical entertainment draws a constrant stream of diners on weekday and weekends. -- Bob Rountree Getting There: Take I-75 to Venice Exit 191 (River Road) and go south. Turn left at the first intersection and follow the narrow, hard-pack road a half-mile to the end. 4085 East Venice Ave., Venice FL 34292. Phone: (941)488-0850 On the web, www.campvenice.com (PHOTO BY BOB ROUNTREE) Related Content  See past Florida Getaways Copyright © 2008, South Florida Sun-Sentinel |