Pet friendly camping near Bokeelia, Florida centers around several unique island and coastal environments. Located on Pine Island in southwestern Florida, Bokeelia sits at the northern tip with an elevation just a few feet above sea level. The subtropical climate makes winter camping particularly popular, with temperatures typically ranging from 50°F to 75°F December through February. Most campgrounds in this region require advance planning as waterfront sites fill quickly during peak season.
What to do
Kayaking through mangroves: At Cayo Costa State Park Campground, visitors can explore extensive mangrove trails with abundant wildlife viewing. "I highly recommend doing so. There is a series of trails that run through the wooded sections of the island to explore. There are some truly great views to take in as well as an island cemetery which provides some historical contest to what Cayo Costa was used for," shares David I.
Nighttime stargazing: The limited light pollution on outlying islands creates exceptional star-viewing conditions. "Stargazing is to die for...no ambient light to wash out the blackness of the night sky," notes Dave V. about his experience at Cayo Costa State Park.
Historic exploration: Visit Koreshan State Park Campground to learn about an unusual Florida settlement. "The buildings are pretty interesting, as is the beliefs these unusual folks held. History is, well…history…sometimes fact is stranger than fiction," explains one camper who regularly visits this unique site.
What campers like
Island seclusion: The remote nature of Cayo Costa State Park Campground attracts campers seeking quieter experiences. "It seems as though you are marooned on your own little island. 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," shares Dave V.
Clean facilities: Creekside RV Resort maintains high standards that campers consistently mention. "This resort is absolutely beautiful. Lots of grass and trees all around. Big sites with plenty of room between other campers. Wide, paver parking with full hook ups. Big and clean showers and restrooms," notes Marci R.
Bicycle paths: Pine Island offers extensive cycling options for campers. "Pine Island offers dog-friendly bicycle paths spanning the 17-mile length of the island for more accessible exercise options," according to local information.
What you should know
Island logistics: Transportation to Cayo Costa requires planning. "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 David I. He adds, "Given the tram and ferry loading and unloading processes you may want to travel as lightly as you can."
Insect preparation: No-see-ums and mosquitoes present challenges throughout the region. "WHATEVER YOU DO BRING BUG PROTECTION! I brought sawyers bug lotion and 2 thermacell bug repellents and in 24 hours got 2 bug bites! Fire ants too are a big thing," advises Tatiana M. about camping at Cayo Costa.
Rodent management: NOFO GROVES Getaway offers a quieter camping option with fewer wildlife concerns. "Very beautiful family, amazing, peaceful and quiet. Highly recommended," states Dana H., who completed an extended stay at this small, two-site property.
Tips for camping with families
Beach exploration timing: Plan beach activities around heat and tide schedules. "When we stayed for three nights in November 2021... No problem with bugs in the dry season, but you still need some bug spray at dawn and dusk," advises Jim at Cayo Costa State Park.
Pool amenities: San Carlos RV Resort & Marina provides family-friendly water activities. "Location has all the amenities you need to make for a fun time," notes Thomas C., while Sara G. adds, "we had a paved site on the river, we took the paddle boards over to the restaurant on the opposite side, short walk over the bridge to town and the beach."
Pack light strategy: When visiting island destinations, minimize gear. "The biggest thing to consider is how much gear you want to have to carry... Given the tram and ferry loading and unloading processes you may want to travel as lightly as you can," recommends David I. about Cayo Costa.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Consider layout when booking at Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA. "Nice campground and facilities. The pool was awesome. Everything was clean. We had an issue with the breaker kicking. We ended up using the box for the next site, issues were done. Only down side... no shade and the sand fleas were eating us up," advises Steven B.
Driving considerations: Some parks have tight turning spaces. "Campground staff very nice, campsites are great concrete slab with table. Some campsites are tricky to get into we have a 34 foot fifth wheel. Could use a little more shade," notes Marie F. about San Carlos RV Resort.
Water access priority: Waterfront sites provide additional recreation options. "We had a paved site on the river, we took the paddle boards over to the restaurant on the opposite side," shares Sara G. about San Carlos RV Resort, highlighting the convenience of water access directly from camp.
Traveler
