Fort Myers Beach camping options stretch from inland riverside areas to Gulf-adjacent locations, creating several distinct camping environments within a 20-mile radius. The region sits at near sea level elevation, with most campgrounds positioned on flat terrain that occasionally experiences seasonal flooding during summer storms. Most campsites stay open year-round with temperatures ranging from 50-65°F in winter to 85-95°F in summer months.
What to do
Kayaking on the Estero River: Launch from Koreshan State Park Campground where the river access provides natural exploration opportunities. "The big draw…the Estero River. Though built up on the north side with a trailer park…parts of the Estero feel remote and jungle-like. There are gators that populate the river…but if you don't mess with them…they won't mess with you," notes camper Dave V.
Visit historic buildings: Explore the unique historic structures at Koreshan State Park. "This campground has some history to it, which is pretty cool," shares Eric R. Another camper adds, "The park also has a walking tour of the Korshean Settlement which was interesting."
Shelling excursions: Some of the best shelling beaches in Florida are accessible from Periwinkle Park on Sanibel Island. "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," explains Megan K.
Fishing spots: Many campsites offer direct water access. At Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA, one camper notes, "Pine island has no beaches but does have a lot of fishing spots and great restaurants."
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Campers appreciate how close certain sites are to beaches and waterways. At Dancing Dolphins, "Parking was easy on brick pavers and was right next to the sandy beach. We could walk for miles in both directions," shares Ben G.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain spotless bathrooms and laundry areas. At Periwinkle Park, one reviewer noted, "Bathrooms were probably the cleanest I've ever seen at a campground. They were cleaned daily and it showed. Laundry facilities were very nice as well."
Wildlife viewing: Unique bird watching opportunities exist at several campgrounds. "This place is amazing. I wanted to take my kids camping with only a tent. I called the day before and made reservations for the next day. The check-in lady was so nice. Place is very clean and every one is so friendly," reports a Periwinkle Park visitor.
Accessible beach locations: Certain campgrounds put you steps from the shore. "We were right in front of the beach, there's no electric or water yet, but is a good place to hang out," shares a Dancing Dolphins camper.
What you should know
Limited spacing at some parks: Many campgrounds pack sites closely together. At Fort Myers Beach RV Resort, "I live in Florida so I know 'season' is busy but this place had zero outside living space due to they cram everyone in there. Also there are permanent trailers mixed with regular campers that face each other."
Bug protection essential: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be intense, especially at dusk. "The noseeums about did me in there. No one sits out once the sun starts to set," reports a Pine Island KOA visitor.
Beach proximity varies widely: Despite names suggesting beachfront locations, actual beach access varies. A Periwinkle Park camper notes, "The campground is less than a mile from the beach, easily walkable and even easier to bike."
Reservation timing matters: Winter sees highest demand. "Sites fill up quickly especially on the weekend," warns a Koreshan State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with wildlife exhibits: Children enjoy educational wildlife areas. At Periwinkle Park, "Birds are amazing. If you are around at feeding time, you can often see parrots riding around in a gold cart!"
Consider parks with activity spaces: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "We love to hike the trails and the kids really like the playground at this campground. The historic area is really neat too and they have a farmers market on Sundays," shares a Koreshan State Park visitor.
Beach distance considerations: For families with young children, check walking distances to water. "The beach is a short bike ride away, but can be walked too," notes a Periwinkle Park camper.
Weather preparedness: Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms; winter evenings can be cool. "The sites were close together and a bit tight, but they are nice gravel for the rig and a concrete pad for your rug. Each site has a grill and picnic table," explains a Periwinkle Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose sites carefully based on your specific rig. At Woodsmoke Camping Resort, staff is "friendly and helpful" but some RVers note tight spacing between sites.
Hookup quality varies: Full hookups available at most parks but check for amperage compatibility. "We had an issue with the breaker kicking. We ended up using the box for the next site," noted a Pine Island KOA visitor.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra work for leveling. "I'd suggest avoiding site 37 until it's renovated. Big tree in the middle, and soft sugar sand is hard to level," warns a Koreshan State Park camper.
Maneuverability considerations: Larger rigs face challenges at certain parks. "Roads are narrow back by the campground site if you're in a big rig. Sites are also a little overgrown with shrubbery," notes a Koreshan State Park visitor.
