Primitive camping options near Naples, Florida range from secluded forest sites to beachfront locations, each offering unique experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Winter temperatures typically hover between 50-75°F, making December through April the most comfortable camping season. Summer brings intense heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms, creating challenging but manageable conditions for determined campers.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: 5 miles east of Naples at Horseshoe Primitive Campground in Picayune Strand State Forest, campers can spot diverse wildlife. "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," notes one visitor who encountered "deer roaming the campground."
Historic exploration: Estero settlement history at Koreshan State Park Campground provides educational opportunities. "The park offers hiking trails and close by access for launching kayaks. This park also has a walking tour of the Korshean Settlement which was interesting," says one camper. Another mentions "The buildings are pretty interesting, as is the beliefs these unusual folks held."
Kayaking: Multiple access points throughout the area give paddlers various water experiences. One camper at Trail Lakes Campground shares, "Kayak and canoe rentals are available as well as a swamp buggy ride. We brought our own kayaks and were told where to enjoy them." The Estero River at Koreshan State Park offers another paddling option where "fighting the current both directions doesn't make for a fun day."
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates stellar night viewing opportunities. "There is no towns close by so the light pollution is low," reports one camper at Trail Lakes Campground. Another visitor adds, "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."
Spacious campsites: Room to spread out at some locations provides privacy. A Horseshoe Primitive Campground visitor noted, "A perfect primitive spot with a great location. Kind campground host and spacious spots." At Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA, one camper mentioned, "One of the better maintained KOA campgrounds. Staff really cares and willing to do whatever it takes to help you have a great stay."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance camping comfort at established sites. "The bathrooms were probably the cleanest I've ever seen at a campground. They were cleaned daily and it showed," reports one Periwinkle Park camper. Another noted, "Laundry facilities were very nice as well."
What you should know
Bug preparation: Essential in all seasons but varies in intensity. "Mosquitos at dusk, but not bad at all. (It was February- sure June would be different...)" notes a Trail Lakes Campground visitor. Another camper warns, "The noseeums about did me in there. No one sits out once the sun starts to set."
Weather considerations: Plan for seasonal variations between dry winter and wet summer seasons. "Every time we have been here there has been a burn ban so no campfires allowed," reports a Koreshan State Park visitor. Winter temperatures can drop: "Some people may be using noisy generators. I guess they needed their heat, as it did get down to 30 degrees in Feb."
Reservation requirements: Book early for popular sites, especially during winter months. A Cayo Costa State Park Campground camper advises, "Cayo Costa can book out as much as 6 months in advance. Plan your trip accordingly." For glamping close to Naples, Florida, cabins at most parks fill quickly during high season.
Tips for camping with families
Bird watching activities: Exotic species viewing offers educational opportunities for children. "There is an aviary in the campground," notes a Periwinkle Park visitor. Another adds, "Birds are amazing. If you are around at feeding time, you can often see parrots riding around in a gold cart!"
Playground access: Kid-friendly amenities at select campgrounds keep children entertained. "We love to hike the trails and the kids really like the playground at this campground," shares a Koreshan State Park visitor. Some parks also offer "a club house with ping pong" for additional entertainment options.
Beach proximity: Easy access to water provides family recreation. At San Carlos RV Resort & Marina, "we had a paved site on the river, we took the paddle boards over to the restaurant on the opposite side, short walk over the bridge to town and the beach." Periwinkle Park offers similar convenience: "It's a short bike ride down to the beach and to many other attractions."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Size restrictions affect larger RVs at some campgrounds. "Roads are narrow back by the campground site if you're in a big rig. Sites are also a little overgrown with shrubbery," cautions a Koreshan State Park visitor. Another camper notes, "Sites have stones and sand. Not alot of grass or tree coverage. Sites are small but will work for a tent or smaller camper. Ours is 32' and it is really tight for the site."
Hookup availability: Full services at many glamping locations near Naples. "Nice camp host and spacious spots," reports a Horseshoe camper. Most luxury camping sites provide electric and water hookups, with some offering sewer connections. "Good spot very clean with clean amenities. Wifi and cable access good too," adds a Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA visitor.
Leveling challenges: Terrain variations can complicate setup. One camper advises, "I'd suggest avoiding site 37 until it's renovated. Big tree in the middle, and soft sugar sand is hard to level." At Periwinkle Park, "Nice campground with very flat campsites made setting up our small trailer a breeze."
