Camping sites near Boca Grande, Florida primarily offer inland and island experiences in a subtropical climate zone with average year-round temperatures between 65-90°F. Most campgrounds in the region sit at or near sea level with minimal elevation change, making them accessible but vulnerable to seasonal flooding during hurricane season from June through November. Many campers need to cross water to reach some of the most sought-after camping destinations in the area.
What to do
Kayaking through mangroves: Paddle around the waters near Cayo Costa State Park Campground, where you can explore the island's diverse ecosystem. "We left Pineland Marina... paddled across to Black Key, down through Orange Pass, around Coon Key, pass between the southern point of Useppa island and Terrassee Island and stop for lunch on Cabbage Key," reports Dave V., highlighting the kayaking routes through barrier islands to reach the campground.
Wildlife viewing at night: Set up after dark at Oscar Scherer State Park Campground for animal spotting. "You'll enjoy a myriad of water birds (herons, egrets, diver ducks, anhinga, spoonbills, pelicans, sea gulls) along with osprey, bald eagles, kingfisher and kites," notes Dave V. about the area. A visitor at Oscar Scherer adds, "We actually got to see a Florida panther on one of the trails as well as a friendly family of scrub Jay's!"
Geocaching and fishing: The northern region offers both activities at various spots. "Once there you can go to the beach, collect shells, hike, fish, kayak, geocache and watch the stars at night. We were there during a meteor shower and had a fantastic show on the beach that night," shares Trudy T. about her experience at Cayo Costa.
What campers like
Island isolation: The remote nature of Camp Venice Retreat provides a peaceful getaway. "This place has a very comfy relaxed vibe to it. You pull in and instantly feel like you are among long time friends," explains Sam S. The proximity to water enhances this experience: "Right on the river. Boat ramp awesome roomy sites," adds Melinda H.
Dark night skies: Areas away from city lights offer exceptional stargazing. "Stargazing is to die for...no ambient light to wash out the blackness of the night sky," notes one visitor about Cayo Costa. Another camper at Myakka River Motorcoach Resort describes "Amazon sunsets" as a highlight of staying by the water.
Legacy Trail access: Cycling enthusiasts appreciate the paved trails. "The park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking," reports Rachel G. about Oscar Scherer State Park. Another camper confirms: "Easy access to Vince and the great Legacy Bike trail. Beaches and parking are free."
What you should know
Rodent management: Previous wildlife issues at some campsites have been addressed. "The campground closed for several months in summer 2021 to eradicated the rodents. It worked! We did not see or hear one rodent when we stayed for three nights in November 2021," reports Jim about Palmetto Ridge Campground. He advises, "If campers/visitors will keep a clean camp site and not leave food and garbage out, the rodents should stay under control."
Water level variations: Water activities depend on seasonal conditions. "The river was low so the kayak rental & boat tours were shut down," mentions a camper at Palmetto Ridge. This affects access to some of the most popular recreation options during certain times of year.
Bug protection strategies: Insects remain a consistent challenge throughout the region. "No problem with bugs in the dry season, but you still need some bug spray at dawn and dusk," advises Jim about Cayo Costa. Another camper specifically recommends timing: "Fortunately I didn't see any rats while I was there, and that was in November. Next time I would wear pants and long-sleeve shirts in the evenings."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several sites offer safe cycling for children. "Our 6 yo son loved that we felt safe enough that he could ride his bike around the camp ground to play with the other campers. There are play areas for the kids," notes Jennifer M. about Oscar Scherer State Park.
Beach camping preparation: When taking children to island sites, pack strategically. "Pack lightly as you will need to load and unload all of your stuff on the ferry and then the tram and then carry it to the campsite," advises Jennifer L. about Flying A Campground. She adds, "I would probably bring my own bike next time as it would be helpful to get around during the 4 days I was there and find more remote locations."
Primitive camping considerations: Some campgrounds offer basic amenities suitable for families seeking a more authentic experience. "The sites are very spacious with fire pits, picnic table and at some sites a place to hang a hammock," describes Trudy T. about Cayo Costa, adding that families should bring their own entertainment since "it's dark...make sure you bring flashlights and headlamps because this place is DARK at night!"
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Many campgrounds have restrictions or limited space. "Only 10 sites and one is for the camp host. About half the sites are back-in and can hold small RVs," notes Ari A. about Flying A Campground. For larger rigs, Palmetto Ridge offers better options: "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic... Gravel sites but pretty level. My site was 50 amp."
Electrical service quality: Power issues may arise at certain locations. "We had an issue with the breaker kicking. We ended up using the box for the next site, issues were done," reports Steven B. about Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA. For more reliable service, one camper notes that Myakka River Motorcoach Resort offers "Great Wi-Fi, individual cat 5 cable to each site."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The road going in has some potholes and lots of low hanging tree branches. Drive slow and stay in the middle if you can," advises Sam S. about Camp Venice Retreat. Similarly, a camper at Flying A describes "Well maintained white dirt road" leading to the sites.
