Campgrounds near Marco Island offer diverse options from primitive tent camping to RV resorts with full amenities. The region sits at the edge of the Everglades watershed, where seasonal water levels fluctuate significantly between the dry winter months and summer rainy season. During summer, temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity while winter temperatures typically range from 50-75°F.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Trail Lakes Campground provides kayak rentals for exploring the surrounding waterways. "There is a small marina for boats, canoes/kayaks and bicycle rentals if you choose. There are a couple trails to venture onto," notes Doug E. about the campground's water recreation options.
Wildlife viewing: Horseshoe Primitive Campground in Picayune Strand State Forest offers opportunities to spot deer and other wildlife in open fields. "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," according to Teala S.
Fishing: Picayune Strand State Forest provides canal fishing opportunities. Paul W. notes, "Fishing in the canals is excellent," making it a practical option for anglers staying at Horseshoe Primitive Campground.
Stargazing: The remote location of Trail Lakes Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "It was a full moon the night we stayed and the stars were still incredibly bright as there is very little light pollution," reports Laura K. about the dark skies.
What campers like
Access to Everglades activities: Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby natural areas. "The location is fantastic, close enough in to be 5 minutes from a super Walmart and shopping, 25 minutes to Everglades City where we went out fishing and took an airboat tour, and is a hop skip to Marco beaches," writes Joseph H.
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at Trail Lakes Campground. "The sites were spacious and had room to spread out and not be on top of your neighbors. Picnic table and fire rings at each site," notes Laura K.
Pet-friendly options: Dog friendly campgrounds near Marco Island include several options with designated pet areas. At Marco Naples RV Resort, visitors find a welcoming environment for pets. "Dogs are welcome, the grounds were impeccably kept, the staff was professional, and the atmosphere of the resort was relaxing," according to J B.
Year-round availability: Unlike some seasonal campgrounds near Marco Island, Endless Summer RV Park remains open throughout the year. "With a newly purchased Catalina and a few days before memorial weekend we found this very nice Campground. Nice folks and staff," says Jeff R. about finding last-minute availability.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection remains essential at most Marco Island area campgrounds, especially during warmer months. "We are in November now and the weather is in the 70s during the day and 60s at night so the mosquitoes are not bad, but they are still present. Having a bottle of bug spray and maybe a fogger will do just fine in this weather," advises Victoria S. at Trail Lakes Campground.
Water and drainage issues: Some campgrounds experience flooding during rainy periods. "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.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Horseshoe Primitive Campground lacks many amenities. "No potable water (bring all the water you need)," reminds Dave V., adding that there are "two portable pit latrines enclosed within wood fence enclosures" but no showers or other facilities.
Site spacing variations: Site proximity differs significantly between campgrounds. At Everglades Isle Motorcoach Retreat, sites are well-appointed but close together, while Sebastian S. notes it was "way above my expectations, very close to Marco Island and Naples."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible recreation: Trail Lakes Campground offers family-friendly activities without requiring special equipment. "There is a nice playground by the river and a few historic markers to explore," says September H. about nearby Collier-Seminole State Park, adding that "the park is also a short distance to the northern part of Everglades National Park."
Educational opportunities: Children can learn about local wildlife at Trail Lakes Campground. "Campers have free admission to the Snake Ape and reptile exhibits- snake lovers will enjoy the snakes including one of the largest captive pythons in the world. We held a baby alligator and saw the adults up close," shares Laura K.
Cabin options for families: For those seeking pet friendly accommodations near Marco Island without tent camping, consider cabin rentals. "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," reports Jennifer S. about Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Sarah V. notes about Collier-Seminole State Park: "I enjoyed the walking trail and my kids enjoyed the playground. Very nice amenities with very nice bathroom facilities with showers."
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Some RV parks have tight roads that require careful maneuvering. "This RV resort is delightful. The roads are tight for bigger rigs. Don't let that deter you," advises J B. about Marco Naples RV Resort.
Site selection for comfort: At Naples/Marco Island KOA Holiday, site location affects overall experience. Bruce L. notes, "Sites are nice and well manicured. Pool excellent, very nice laundry facilities and camp store."
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note that some campgrounds transform during winter months. "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," Dave V. observes about camping in the region.
Budget options: Not all campgrounds require significant investment. "This small no frills campground was great for the price. Beautiful area all around but nothing fancy. Its a short drive to downtown Naples and Naples Pier/Beach which I highly recommend," shares Coral W. about Endless Summer RV Park.
