The Big Cypress watershed area near Goodland, Florida ranges from sea level to just a few feet above, creating wetland ecosystems where freshwater mingles with saltwater. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, while summer brings consistent 85-95°F days with high humidity. The region sits at the northwestern edge of the Everglades, providing access to both coastal environments and inland swamp forests.
What to do
Paddling excursions: Trail Lakes Campground offers kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the surrounding waterways. "The campground is built in several loops around a couple of lakes and has space for RV's and tents. If also offers cabins and some screened in open air huts (which I didn't stay in but they looked really cool). You could buy ice and firewood, as well as rent kayaks if you dared to boat through alligator swamps," notes Stephanie Z.
Wildlife viewing: Horseshoe Primitive Campground in Picayune Strand State Forest provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "Just hit this equestrian campground for a single night and I had the place to myself. There was a single cameraman from a local news affiliate shooting video of deer in the field at sunset. And keep your eyes peeled for a panther sighting!" shares Tucker B.
Fishing spots: The canals and waterways near campgrounds provide good fishing opportunities. "Exactly as described. The host was great and helpful. Porta potties available, but no drinkable water. Dusty. Bugs weren't terrible at all. Fishing in the canals is excellent," reports Paul W. about Horseshoe Primitive Campground.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Remote locations offer exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "It was a full moon the night we stayed and the stars were still incredibly bright as there is very little light pollution. Sunset was beautiful," writes Laura K. about Trail Lakes Campground.
Historical features: Collier-Seminole State Park provides access to unique historical sites. "Immaculately kept facilities. Interesting historical sites. Nice walking trail," says Laurie T. The park showcases the only Bay City Walking Dredge still in existence, which was used in the construction of the Tamiami Trail.
Natural setting: The Everglades ecosystem creates a distinctive camping experience. "Remote location, but not in a bad way easy to get to and from other large cities. Great scenery in the campground clean awesome sites big! Have wood and fire rings available," writes Tim H. about Trail Lakes Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Summer heat and humidity significantly impact camping comfort. "This place was nicely maintained. We camped on the tent only loop. Most of the sites are pretty private with water, a fire ring and picnic table at each spot. But wow it was crazy HOT July 31st. So many mosquitoes and yellow biting flies. I would go in the cooler months for sure!" advises Nick C. about Collier-Seminole State Park.
Water management: Some campgrounds experience drainage issues during rainy season. "We stayed here last weekend, and while the park is nice enough, there are severe drainage issues. We live in Florida and fully understand rainy season, but there's no excuse to wake up to 4 inches of water FLOWING through your site," warns Anthony B. about Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday.
Site spacing: Campground layouts vary considerably in terms of privacy. "The sites are pretty close together especially in the back," notes September H. about Collier-Seminole State Park, while Penny M. shares about Horseshoe Primitive Campground: "We stayed in a campervan and upon arrival saw 4 campsites packed together and the entire field was open which had many other campsites. We drove into camp site 20 instead of our reserved site 2."
Tips for camping with families
Check bathhouse facilities: Bathhouse quality varies between campgrounds. "Three Restroom/showerhouse's are strategically located so it is not a far walk to reach one from anywhere in the camping area. One of which has laundry facilities," notes Dave V. about Collier-Seminole State Park, while Trail Lakes gets mixed reviews: "Showers were hot with good water pressure. Shower drains could have been better as the floors were wet throughout the whole bathhouse, unfortunately."
Recreation options: Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "This is your standard KOA with an upscale amenities list. The pool facilities are super nice and the bath facilities were very clean," reports Joseph H. Another camper adds that "the pool, boat ramp, playground, and dog park are all open. 2 dog parks!"
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require awareness and preparation. "Don't lose sight that you are in a very wild area. Bears, panthers, bobcat, gators, the invasive python, along with several poisonous snakes call this home," cautions Dave V. about camping in this region.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. "Something else to note for Big RVers. I didn't have this problem at my site BUT I did see some coaches have issues with enough space to back in. Some the the sites are tricky to back into (site poles, trees....etc.) whether they were on the site OR a site across from yours," observes Doug E. about Collier-Seminole State Park.
Pet accommodations: Dog friendly campgrounds near Goodland typically provide dedicated pet areas. Marco Naples RV Resort welcomes pets and has "impeccably kept" grounds according to J B., who adds: "Dogs are welcome, the grounds were impeccably kept, the staff was professional, and the atmosphere of the resort was relaxing."
RV length restrictions: Some premium locations have specific RV requirements. "This place will not take older motorhomes regardless of condition. This is very disappointing when you take pride in your older rig and keep it nice," mentions Robin F. about Everglades Isle Motorcoach Retreat.
