Camping opportunities near Marco Island include options within 30 miles of this subtropical Florida destination. The region sits at approximately sea level with a wet season running from June through November when afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winter camping provides drier conditions but requires advance planning due to high demand from seasonal visitors.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Horseshoe Primitive Campground in Picayune Strand State Forest offers opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife including deer. "A perfect primitive spot with a great location. It is very open and you will see a lot of your neighbors, but that isn't too much of a worry as many folks are here for hunting. It's quiet in the evenings and makes for a great sunset spot," notes one camper.
Kayaking and canoeing: Waterways throughout the region provide paddling routes ranging from protected mangrove tunnels to open water. "We stayed in a campervan and upon arrival saw 4 campsites packed together and the entire field was open which had many other campsites," shares a visitor to Horseshoe Primitive Campground. Several campgrounds offer boat launches for personal watercraft access.
Historical sites: Learn about Florida's development history and native cultures. "A historical sight down in the Florida Everglades," writes one camper about Collier-Seminole State Park, located approximately 20 miles from Marco Island.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards vary across camping options, but several receive positive reviews for cleanliness. "Great campground! I enjoyed the walking trail and my kids enjoyed the playground. Very nice amenities with very nice bathroom facilities with showers," reports a visitor to Collier-Seminole State Park.
Spacious campsites: Some campgrounds offer more generous spacing than others. At Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday, "The spaces are pretty tight, but not as bad as other places. And they are staggered so it feels roomier. We had a nice site with a shaded patio."
Organized activities: Private campgrounds often schedule regular events for campers. "Excellent staff, communication outstanding regarding activities, park issues, events etc. Sites are nice and well manicured. Pool excellent, very nice laundry facilities and camp store," writes a recent visitor to Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter months (December-March) represent peak camping season with mild temperatures but high occupancy. "During what they refer to as 'season,' Dec-Mar. you'll be hard pressed to find a vacancy, as snowbirds migrate here in droves. But from May through October, you'll find several vacancies," explains a visitor at Collier-Seminole State Park.
Mosquito preparation: Biting insects present challenges year-round but especially during warm, humid months. "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. So many mosquitoes and yellow biting flies. I would go in the cooler months for sure!" advises a Collier-Seminole camper.
Water management issues: Low-lying camping areas can experience flooding during rainy periods. At Marco Naples RV Resort, "The roads are tight for bigger rigs. Don't let that deter you. We truly enjoyed our stay and we will definitely return to this campground!"
Tips for camping with families
Safety first: Ensure children understand wildlife precautions and stay hydrated in the subtropical climate. "I would visit again BUT will be bring even MORE mosquito repellent," emphasizes a camper from Collier-Seminole State Park who found the insect protection necessary.
Recreation options: Choose campgrounds with amenities geared toward children. "We had a great stay at this KOA (Poet and I didn't know it) we rented the cabin on Easter weekend in 2018. Bathrooms were clean, hot tub and pool were nice. Very quiet atmosphere and an overall great campground," shares a family who stayed at Endless Summer RV Park.
Bike safety requirements: Florida law requires helmets for young cyclists, which is enforced at state parks. "Note: they are sticklers for some of the rules...(no hanging lights from trees, kids must have helmet when on bikes). No biggy to me just something to know," reports a Collier-Seminole visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites away from busy roads when possible for less noise. "We stayed at site 87 and it was next to a busy road. It felt private and isolated however, there was a constant flow of traffic on the other side of the brush," notes a Collier-Seminole camper.
Drainage considerations: Florida's frequent rain can create water management challenges. "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 a visitor to Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday.
Maneuvering space: Many campgrounds feature tight turning radiuses and close spacing between sites. "I stayed there for 13 nights. Good experience. Customer service is excellent. I stayed on a concrete pad close to the main office. Great neighbours. Tight spaces but I had no issues maneuvering my 28' RV," reports a Marco Naples RV Resort camper.
