Sarasota Lakes RV Resort is a Sarasota, Florida, RV destination for travelers who want a convenient place to stay while exploring the Gulf Coast. Located at 1674 University Parkway, the resort sits between U.S. 301 and U.S. 41, close to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, downtown Sarasota, Gulf beaches, and attractions such as The Ringling.
The resort offers full-hookup RV sites with water, sewer, and 30- or 50-amp electrical service. Guests can also use amenities including a heated swimming pool, kiddie pool, pickleball and tennis courts, basketball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi on most lots, and a gated entrance.
However, Sarasota Lakes RV Resort is not the same as a large, traditional campground. It has a strong residential and community feel, and some RV travelers mention narrow roads, close-together sites, and aircraft noise because of its location near the airport. Knowing these details before booking can help you decide if this resort matches your travel style.
Where Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort?
Sarasota Lakes RV Resort is located at 1674 University Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34243. The resort is positioned between U.S. 301 and U.S. 41, also known as Tamiami Trail. It is near Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport and provides access to Sarasota and Bradenton attractions.
Its location is one of its strongest advantages. Visitors can use the resort as a base for exploring downtown Sarasota, Gulf Coast beaches, museums, restaurants, shopping areas, and other attractions without staying far outside the city.
The resort is also close to the airport, which can be convenient for travelers meeting friends or family flying into the area. At the same time, that proximity means aircraft noise is an important consideration.
What Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Like?
Sarasota Lakes RV Resort has a different atmosphere from a remote campground surrounded by forests or open land. It has a community-oriented setup with permanent or seasonal residences alongside spaces available for RV travelers.
The resort describes itself as a cooperative owned by shareholders and guided by a board of directors, park rules, and bylaws.
This setup can create a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Reviews frequently mention welcoming residents, helpful staff, cleanliness, and a sense of community. At the same time, some visitors have commented that the RV sites are close together and that the internal roads can be narrow.
For travelers who enjoy socializing and resort amenities, the community atmosphere may be a major benefit.
What RV Sites Are Available?
Sarasota Lakes RV Resort offers RV sites with essential utility connections, including 30-amp and 50-amp electricity, water, and sewer hookups. Current Campspot listings show both Gold and Silver RV sites, with concrete pads and full services.
Some sites are back-in spaces, while current listings also show pull-through availability. Campspot lists concrete pads, water, sewer, 30-amp service, 50-amp service, Wi-Fi on most lots, and pet-friendly options among available site features.
Do the RV Sites Have Full Hookups?
Yes. Full hookups are one of the practical benefits of staying at Sarasota Lakes RV Resort.
The resort states that its rates include water and sewer hookups along with 30- or 50-amp service.
Having all major hookups at the site means RV travelers can use their onboard water and waste systems without depending on campground dump stations for normal daily use.
If you have a large motorhome, it is still smart to confirm the exact dimensions and access of your assigned site before arrival.
Are the RV Sites Concrete?
Yes. Current listings describe Gold and Silver sites with level concrete pads.
Concrete pads can make setting up an RV easier and provide a more stable surface during wet weather. However, reviews indicate that some sites and roads can feel tight, so the pad itself is only one part of the parking experience.
What Amenities Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Have?
One of the biggest reasons to consider Sarasota Lakes RV Resort is its collection of on-site amenities.
The resort currently lists:
- Large heated swimming pool
- Kiddie pool
- Pickleball courts
- Tennis courts
- Basketball
- Horseshoes
- Shuffleboard
- Coinless guest laundry
- Wi-Fi on most lots
- Picnic tables
- Water and sewer hookups
- 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service
- Gated access
- Pet-friendly options with restrictions
These amenities mean guests can spend time at the resort without needing to drive somewhere every day.
Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Have a Pool?
Yes. The resort has a large heated swimming pool as well as a separate kiddie pool.
The pool is one of the amenities mentioned positively in guest reviews. Campspot’s verified reviews give the resort’s amenities an overall score of 4.5 out of 5.
For families and travelers staying for several weeks, an on-site pool can be especially useful because it provides an easy way to relax between sightseeing trips.
Are Pickleball and Tennis Available?
Yes. Sarasota Lakes RV Resort provides pickleball and tennis courts. Basketball, horseshoes, and shuffleboard are also available.
These activities give guests several options beyond swimming and sightseeing. They can also make it easier for longer-term visitors to meet other people staying in the community.
Is Laundry Available?
Yes. The resort offers coinless guest laundry facilities.
Laundry facilities are particularly useful for travelers staying for a week or longer because they reduce the need to find an outside laundromat.
Does the Resort Have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The resort says internet is available on most lots, and current Campspot listings include Wi-Fi as a site feature.
Campspot’s verified reviews currently give the resort a 4.1 out of 5 Wi-Fi rating.
If you need a strong connection for remote work, video calls, or heavy streaming, it is still wise to confirm the connection quality for your specific site.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Pet Friendly?
Yes. Sarasota Lakes RV Resort allows pets, but breed restrictions apply. The resort’s current information should be checked before arrival if you are traveling with a dog.
The resort’s published rate information has also listed a maximum of two dogs per lot and requires vaccination records. Because pet policies can change, confirm the current rules when making your reservation.
For many RV travelers, pet-friendly accommodation is an important part of choosing a resort, especially for extended Florida trips.
How Much Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Cost?
Rates at Sarasota Lakes RV Resort depend on the season, site category, and length of stay.
For the 2026 off-season period from May 1 through October 31, 2026, the resort currently lists:
- Gold daily: $70.15 plus taxes
- Silver daily: $48.73 plus taxes
- Gold weekly: $420.88 plus taxes
- Silver weekly: $341.11 plus taxes
- Gold 30-day: $1,953.38 plus taxes and electric
- Silver 30-day: $1,367.40 plus taxes and electric
For the peak season from November 1, 2026, through April 30, 2027, the published rates are:
- Gold daily: $94.80 plus taxes
- Silver daily: $80.88 plus taxes
- Gold weekly: $663.60 plus taxes
- Silver weekly: $566.16 plus taxes
- Gold 30-day: $2,559.60 plus taxes and electric
- Silver 30-day: $2,183.76 plus taxes and electric
These are published rates and can change, so travelers should confirm the current price before booking.
Is a Weekly Stay Available?
Yes. Sarasota Lakes RV Resort offers weekly rates for stays of 7 to 29 days.
A weekly stay can make sense for travelers who want more time to explore Sarasota rather than moving between different campgrounds every few days.
Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Offer Monthly Rates?
Yes. Monthly rates are available, and the resort publishes separate rates for Gold and Silver sites.
Longer stays may appeal to snowbirds and other RV travelers who want to spend part of the winter in Florida. The resort’s residential community atmosphere can also make an extended stay feel more like living in a neighborhood than simply camping.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Good for Long-Term Stays?
It can be a good option for RV travelers who value a community atmosphere, recreational amenities, and a central Sarasota location.
Monthly rates provide an option for extended stays, while the pool, sports courts, laundry, and other facilities give long-term guests activities close to their site.
However, long-term visitors should consider the same issues that affect short-term guests, especially site spacing, road width, and aircraft noise.
If you plan to stay for a month or more, it is worth asking about the exact site before paying for the reservation.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Near the Beach?
Yes. The resort is located within easy driving distance of Sarasota’s Gulf Coast beaches. The resort itself highlights its proximity to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches.
This makes the property useful for travelers who want to combine RV living with beach days.
Instead of staying directly on the coast, you can use Sarasota Lakes RV Resort as a base and drive to different beaches depending on the day’s plans.
What Attractions Are Near Sarasota Lakes RV Resort?
The resort’s location gives guests access to many Sarasota-area attractions.
Downtown Sarasota
Downtown Sarasota is close enough for visitors to enjoy restaurants, shopping, entertainment, arts, and cultural attractions.
The Ringling
The Ringling is another major attraction near the resort. The resort specifically lists the Ringling Museum among the nearby attractions.
For travelers interested in art, history, architecture, and culture, this can be one of the most worthwhile nearby stops.
Gulf Coast Beaches
Beach lovers can use the resort as a base for exploring Sarasota’s Gulf Coast.
Sarasota and Bradenton
The location between Sarasota and Bradenton makes it possible to explore attractions in both cities without committing to a campground far outside the area.
Restaurants and Shopping
Current campground listings identify restaurants and shopping among nearby activities, making it convenient for travelers who want access to everyday services during their stay.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Noisy?
Airport noise is one of the biggest factors to consider before booking.
The resort is near Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. Some recent guests have described their stays as quiet and relaxing, while other reviewers have reported substantial aircraft noise.
This difference in experience may be related to aircraft routes, wind direction, timing, and individual sensitivity to noise.
If you are a light sleeper, ask about noise before booking. If airport activity does not bother you, the location may be a major advantage because it places you close to the airport and Sarasota attractions.
Are the RV Sites Close Together?
Some guests say that the RV sites are relatively close together. A June 2026 Campspot review specifically described the sites as extremely close, while other reviews praised the property despite mentioning its compact layout.
The resort is therefore better suited to travelers who prioritize location and amenities over having a large private campsite.
If you prefer wide-open camping spaces surrounded by nature, this may not feel like the right type of RV destination.
Are the Roads Easy for Large RVs?
This is another point worth considering.
Some recent reviews mention narrow internal roads and tight access, particularly for larger motorhomes. One reviewer described navigating the roads with a 38-foot motorhome as difficult.
Other guests report positive experiences with pull-through lots and RV access.
The safest approach is to provide your RV’s exact length and configuration when booking and ask the resort which sites are easiest to access.
What Do Guests Say About Sarasota Lakes RV Resort?
Guest feedback is generally mixed but includes many positive comments about the staff, amenities, cleanliness, and community.
Campspot currently reports a 4.2 out of 5 rating from 17 verified ratings. The resort receives especially strong scores for staff, amenities, site quality, cellular reception, and value.
Common positive comments include:
- Friendly residents
- Helpful staff
- Clean and well-maintained property
- Good pool
- Pickleball and shuffleboard
- Convenient location
- Strong community atmosphere
The main concerns mentioned in reviews include:
- Aircraft noise
- Close-together sites
- Narrow roads
- Occasional communication or arrival issues
This makes the resort a good example of why reading recent reviews is important before booking an RV park.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Good for Families?
It can be a good choice for families, particularly those who want a pool and recreational activities.
The kiddie pool, swimming pool, basketball, tennis, pickleball, horseshoes, and shuffleboard give families several ways to stay active.
However, families should consider the site’s community-style environment and the potential for aircraft noise. If children are sensitive to noise or the family wants a large natural campground, another property might be a better fit.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Good for Couples and Snowbirds?
For couples and seasonal RV travelers, the resort can be particularly appealing.
The community atmosphere, recreational facilities, heated pool, laundry, full hookups, and monthly rates support longer stays. Guest reviews also frequently mention friendly residents and a welcoming atmosphere.
Snowbirds who want to spend the winter in Sarasota may appreciate having a stable base near beaches, restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.
What Are the Pros and Cons?
Pros
- Convenient Sarasota location
- Close to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport
- Near Gulf Coast beaches
- Close to downtown Sarasota
- Near The Ringling
- Full water and sewer hookups
- 30-amp and 50-amp electricity
- Concrete RV pads
- Heated swimming pool
- Kiddie pool
- Pickleball and tennis
- Basketball
- Horseshoes
- Shuffleboard
- Guest laundry
- Wi-Fi on most lots
- Gated community
- Pet-friendly options
- Weekly and monthly stays
- Friendly community atmosphere reported by many guests
Cons
- Aircraft noise can be significant for some guests
- Some RV sites are close together
- Internal roads can be narrow
- The resort has a strong residential/community character
- Site access may be challenging for some large RVs
- Reservations must be made before arrival
- The office is closed on Sundays
What Should You Know Before Booking?
A few simple steps can make your stay easier.
First, make your reservation before arriving. The resort explicitly states that reservations must be made before arrival.
Second, provide accurate information about your RV. Length, slide-outs, tow vehicle, and other dimensions can matter when selecting a site.
Third, ask about airport noise if you are sensitive to sound.
Fourth, confirm the current pet policy if you are traveling with a dog.
Finally, review your arrival instructions carefully. The resort is gated, and renters receive an access code by email.
What Are the Check-In and Check-Out Times?
Current Campspot information lists:
- Check-in: 2:00 PM
- Check-out: 12:00 PM
- Pets: Allowed, subject to restrictions
The resort office is currently listed as open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST, with Saturday hours varying and the office closed Sunday.
Because the office is closed on Sunday, travelers arriving on a weekend should make sure they have all required instructions and access information before traveling.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort Worth It?
For the right type of RV traveler, Sarasota Lakes RV Resort can be a worthwhile place to stay in Sarasota.
Its biggest strengths are its central location, full hookups, recreational facilities, heated pool, community atmosphere, and access to Sarasota beaches and attractions.
The biggest trade-offs are the compact RV layout, narrow roads in some areas, and potential airport noise.
If you want an RV resort close to Sarasota attractions and prefer amenities and convenience over a remote camping experience, Sarasota Lakes RV Resort deserves consideration.
If your ideal camping trip means a large private site, quiet surroundings, and wide roads, you may want to compare it with other Sarasota-area RV parks before making a final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sarasota Lakes RV Resort
Where is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort?
Sarasota Lakes RV Resort is located at 1674 University Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34243, between U.S. 301 and U.S. 41 and near Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort have full hookups?
Yes. RV sites include water, sewer, and 30- or 50-amp electrical service.
Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort have a swimming pool?
Yes. The resort has a large heated pool and a kiddie pool.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort pet friendly?
Yes. Pets are allowed, but breed restrictions apply. Check the current rules before booking.
Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Internet is available on most lots, and Campspot lists Wi-Fi as an available site feature.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort near the beach?
Yes. The resort is close to Sarasota’s Gulf Coast beaches and other popular attractions.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort near the airport?
Yes. It is located near Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. This is convenient for airport access but can also mean noticeable aircraft noise.
Does Sarasota Lakes RV Resort offer monthly rates?
Yes. The resort offers 30-day rates, with prices varying between Gold and Silver sites and between peak and off-season periods.
Are RV sites at Sarasota Lakes RV Resort concrete?
Yes. Current Gold and Silver listings describe level concrete RV pads.
Is Sarasota Lakes RV Resort good for a large RV?
It can accommodate RV travelers, but some reviews mention narrow roads and tight access. If you have a large motorhome, confirm your site’s dimensions and access with the resort before arrival.
What is the biggest downside of Sarasota Lakes RV Resort?
The biggest potential drawbacks are airport noise and the relatively compact layout. Some guests enjoy the location and become accustomed to the aircraft noise, while others find it disruptive.
Final Thoughts
Sarasota Lakes RV Resort combines a convenient Sarasota location with full-hookup RV sites, a heated pool, sports facilities, laundry, Wi-Fi, and a welcoming community atmosphere. It is especially attractive to travelers who want to stay close to Sarasota’s beaches, downtown area, cultural attractions, and Bradenton.
The resort is not perfect for every traveler. The sites can feel close together, some roads are narrow, and its location near the airport means aircraft noise can be an issue. Those factors are worth considering before making a reservation.
For RV travelers who value location, amenities, full hookups, community, and easy access to Sarasota attractions, Sarasota Lakes RV Resort can be a practical Florida base for a short vacation or extended stay.
I’m Charlotte Pembroke, and my passion for lakes began through travelling across the United Kingdom’s national parks. I enjoy learning about freshwater ecosystems, famous lakes, conservation, and the unique stories behind these incredible places.
I write to make geography and nature enjoyable for everyone, combining reliable research with clear explanations that readers of all ages can understand.
Books I’ve Written:
- Lakes of Britain: A Natural Journey
- Waters That Shaped History
Henry Ashford