The barrier islands surrounding Boca Grande, Florida create a unique coastal ecosystem where fresh and saltwater environments converge. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-70°F while summer months reach 85-95°F with high humidity. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be intense, particularly during dawn and dusk hours when winds are calm.
What to do
Fossil hunting along Peace River: Peace River Campground offers access to prime fossil-hunting areas where visitors find shark teeth and prehistoric remains. "Great place to find Shark teeth and other fossils. I once had to abandon my Tilapia as the alligator appeared to want it more than me!" explains a visitor at Peace River Campground.
Explore historic settlements: Beyond beach activities, visitors can discover Florida's unique past at Koreshan State Park. "There are Historic buildings with interesting background and guided tours. Nature trails, kayaking, etc." notes one camper at Koreshan State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: The undeveloped areas provide exceptional opportunities to spot native species. "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," reports a visitor about Cayo Costa. The campground at Myakka River State Park offers additional wildlife viewing with one camper noting, "There are bike rentals I have taken advantage of, plenty of walking trails, and you can rent airboats."
What campers like
Complete island disconnect: The isolation of Cayo Costa creates a truly remote experience without modern distractions. "Can you say dark... make sure you bring flashlights and headlamps because this place is DARK at night! No phone signals and no electricity so leave your cell phones at home unless you have a charging block and want to use to take photos," advises a regular visitor to Cayo Costa State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: The waterways surrounding Boca Grande offer exceptional kayaking. "A group of us went down for the weekend in September. There were very few people camping and we had the tent section all to ourselves. We were 1 min from the beach with easy access to bathrooms and running water. Some of us also slept on the beach which was quite a treat," shares a camper who visited Peace River Campground.
Budget-friendly island access: While island accommodations can be expensive, camping provides affordable options. "Sanibel Island is a great vacation spot full of vacation homes, white sand beaches, and world-class shell hunting. This is the only campsite available on the entire island, and as a result it is a bit pricier than most camp sites, but it is far and away the most economical way to see the island," explains a visitor to Periwinkle Park.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Island camping requires planning and gear management. "Access to the island is by ferry (Tropic Star of Pine Island) although it is possible to kayak to it from Pine Island. This would involve some open water crossing and about a 7 mile total one way trip," explains a Cayo Costa camper.
Wildlife precautions: Alligators are common throughout the region. "This place is special. Best beach oriented camping in Florida. The shelling is amazing and you truly feel like you have traveled back in time," notes a camper at Cayo Costa State Park, while another visitor cautions about the wildlife: "The Peace River is full of alligators in the spring/summer time. They didn't bother us but they also didn't seem too afraid of us either."
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential when glamping near Boca Grande. "WHATEVER YOU DO BRING BUG PROTECTION! I brought sawyers big lotion and 2 thermacell bug repellents and in 24 hours got 2 bug bites! Fire ants too are a big thing," advises a camper from Cayo Costa State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach-focused camping: Some campgrounds offer direct beach access. "We stayed in the tent sites and they are under a nice canopy of trees with water and electric. The staff is awesome, everyone was super friendly, they had clean facilities, the nature trail was awesome to take our dog on walks down," reports a visitor to Camp Venice Retreat.
Booking strategy: Reserve well in advance for prime spots. "Cayo Costa can book out as much as 6 months in advance. Plan your trip accordingly," advises an experienced camper.
Entertainment options: Some resorts offer additional activities for children. "Not far from the mainland, this island has a wonderful state park on its northern tip. A trolley takes you the 1/2 from the docks to the gulf side of the island where the campground is. The sites are very spacious with fire pits, picnic table and at some sites a place to hang a hammock," notes a Cayo Costa visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on your priorities and rig size. "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic. I would say the vegetation gives semi privacy but they aren't on top of each other so it's not like you're looking right at your neighbor," recommends a visitor to Myakka River State Park.
Amenities access: Some RV parks offer exceptional facilities. "One of the best RV parks I have stayed at so far. Its proximity to the beaches and location on the water makes it a great place to stay. Location has all the amenities you need to make for a fun time," shares a camper from San Carlos RV Resort & Marina.
Access limitations: Island campgrounds have specific transportation requirements. "Take the time to plan your paddle around, between and through the barrier islands to Cayo Costa. There is some big water, that might put your panties in a bunch if you aren't use to it. With all the skirting, figure about 5 water miles...give or take," advises a Cayo Costa visitor.