Camping spots near Lehigh Acres, Florida provide access to both primitive and developed sites within a 30-minute drive of the city. The area sits at a low elevation of around 10-15 feet above sea level, creating a flat terrain ideal for various camping setups. Temperatures during summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels, while nighttime temperatures rarely drop below 50°F even in winter.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access: Caloosahatchee Regional Park features direct river access for water activities. As one camper notes, "If you're looking for fish and have a kayak, Telegraph creek is 3 miles away and full of fish and Alligators."
Mountain biking trails: The area offers some of the best riding in South Florida despite the flat terrain. "Probably a favorite to camp in my area... Lots of hiking trails down by the river. Also some really good mtb biking trails (as far as mtb biking is in S. Florida)," mentions a reviewer at Caloosahatchee Regional Park.
Historic site exploration: The Koreshan State Historic Site provides a unique opportunity to learn about local history. A camper observed, "This park also has a walking tour of the Korshean Settlement which was interesting. Every time we have been here there has been a burn ban so no campfires allowed."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist along the Caloosahatchee River. "We stayed for one night in mid February at site 12. This campground is similar to Ortona South since they are both locks on the same river. At this campground though, just about all the sites are waterfront... It has a huge fishing pier though, so if that's your thing, this might be a great choice," notes a visitor to W.P. Franklin North.
What campers like
Waterfront site access: Many sites offer direct water views and access. "All sites have a 30/50 amp electric, water, covered picnic table, and fire pit. No sewer at the sites. Dump station near the exit. There isn't much shade due to immature trees and palms. Nice fishing pier and a lending library near the middle," explains a camper at W.P. Franklin North.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms are nice and clean. Each site has a covered picnic table, barbecue and a fire ring. The host was very nice and accommodating," notes a visitor to W.P. Franklin North.
Natural settings close to urban areas: Several campgrounds offer natural environments despite proximity to developed areas. A camper at Koreshan State Park Campground describes it as "An oasis in the middle of suburbia. Nicely wooded sites if close together. Interesting history, nice kayaking from the park."
Recreation facilities: Beyond natural attractions, some campgrounds offer additional recreation amenities. "This park is 'hidden' just off of I-75 in North Fort Myers. The park is small but has everything you need. The bathrooms and showers are some of the best campground bathrooms I have seen and are air conditioned! The pool is great and the laundry is very nice," shares a camper at Seminole Campground.
What you should know
Tent site limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate tent campers. "Not everyone wants to stay in an RV. I did not stay here," reports a disappointed visitor to Seminole Campground, which appears to only accommodate RVs despite its name.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for potential wildlife interactions. A camper at Koreshan State Park warns, "I'd suggest avoiding site 37 until it's renovated. Big tree in the middle, and soft sugar sand is hard to level. Also, just know there are paths in the back where you want to keep eyes open. Saw rattlesnakes."
Cart-only access: Some campgrounds require carrying gear to sites. "No, you can't drive to your site, but really good carts are available to help you with the load, so no RVs at the campground. The sites are generous with firepits and BBQs on them and are well shaded," explains a camper at Caloosahatchee Regional Park.
Seasonal burn bans: Fire restrictions may apply, especially during dry periods. "This park also has a walking tour of the Korshean Settlement which was interesting. Every time we have been here there has been a burn ban so no campfires allowed," notes a Koreshan State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. "Great paths to manicured campsites. All have fire ring, bbq, and picnic table. Primitive showers available; restrooms available. WiFi works good; but there's miles of trails to walk. Caretakers are friendly," says a visitor to Caloosahatchee Regional Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. "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," mentions a Koreshan State Park camper.
Swimming options: Pools provide relief from heat for families. "We stayed here for 3 weeks in Dec. 2020. Pros: Campground is well-maintained and staff is very friendly... Heated pool. Bathrooms/bathhouses are spotless and roomy. Nice laundry facilities," notes a Seminole Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "Roads are narrow back by the campground site if you're in a big rig. Sites are also a little overgrown with shrubbery. The restrooms were clean. Some road noise," reports an RVer at Koreshan State Park.
Premium site options: Some campgrounds offer upgraded sites. "We've stayed at Upriver a couple of times, always in the big pull through premium spots at the front. There's definitely some noise from the busy road even halfway back to the pool. Spots are level and cement, very clean but tight," explains a camper at Upriver RV Resort.
Winter reservation requirements: Seasonal demand affects availability significantly. "Great Campground, Super Sites and all Premium Sites, 2 swimming pools, Tennis Courts, Bocce Ball, Shuffle Board, Pickle Ball, Corn Hole, Horse Shoes very nice place to winter but must have reservations. Call and see what is available," advises an Upriver RV Resort visitor.
