North Fort Myers camping options extend beyond the river corridor into nearby conservation areas and state parks within a 25-mile radius. The subtropical climate supports year-round camping with average winter temperatures around 65°F and summer temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F. Mosquito activity peaks during summer months when afternoon thunderstorms create standing water conditions throughout the region.
What to do
Kayaking on the Estero River: At Koreshan State Park Campground, paddlers can access calm waters ideal for beginners. "You can do kayaking, biking and hiking with kids. Very recommended," notes one visitor. The park also features historic buildings with guided tours of the unusual Koreshan settlement.
Mountain biking: Local trail systems offer surprising variety for South Florida. "Plenty of trails down by the river. Also some really good mtb biking trails (as far as mtb biking is in S. Florida)," reports a visitor at Caloosahatchee Regional Park, where riders can access several miles of dedicated single-track.
Fishing opportunities: The lock system creates productive fishing spots at W.P. Franklin North. "There is a huge fishing pier though, so if that's your thing, this might be a great choice," writes one camper. The campground provides multiple docks, shoreline access, and proximity to the locks where fish concentrate.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Access to water ranks as the top feature in positive reviews. "Wonderfully nice hosts, impeccably clean grounds, sites, docks, restrooms. Manicured grassy areas. On its own boomerang-shaped river island," writes a camper about W.P. Franklin North, where most sites sit directly along the water.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain high standards for bathhouses. "The bathrooms and showers are some of the best campground bathrooms I have seen and are air conditioned!" notes a camper at Seminole Campground, which also offers a pool and laundry facilities.
Natural surroundings: Despite urban proximity, many campsites retain natural character. "An oasis in the middle of suburbia. Nicely wooded sites if close together. Interesting history, nice kayaking from the park," writes a reviewer about Koreshan State Park, which maintains natural areas alongside historic attractions.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Competition for sites remains fierce year-round. At W.P. Franklin North, one visitor advises: "Book way ahead with this one, we only got one day. But it was glorious." Off-season availability improves slightly but planning ahead remains necessary.
Tent camping limitations: True tent camping options are limited. "Not everyone wants to stay in an RV. I did not stay here," writes one frustrated reviewer about Seminole Campground. Several parks cater primarily to RVs with limited or no tent camping permitted.
Transportation needs: At Caloosahatchee Regional Park, visitors must haul 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," explains one camper. This creates a more primitive experience unusual for the region.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shaded sites: Heat protection matters for comfortable family outings. "Plenty of scrub between you and your neighbor...you may hear them, but you won't see them," notes a camper about Koreshan State Park, where tree coverage provides essential shade during hot months.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer specific family attractions. "We love to hike the trails and the kids really like the playground at this campground," writes a visitor to Koreshan State Historic Site, which combines recreational opportunities with educational historical elements.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many camping spots near North Fort Myers provide safe wildlife encounters. "Great paths to manicured campsites... but there's miles of trails to walk," mentions a Caloosahatchee Regional Park visitor, where hiking trails offer opportunities to spot wading birds and small mammals.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Sun-N-Shade RV Resort, layout affects experience. "Sites are very tight and the roads as well," warns one RVer, highlighting the importance of researching specific site dimensions before booking.
Extended stay options: Many parks accommodate longer visits. "We've stayed at Upriver a couple of times, always in the big pull through premium spots at the front," explains one visitor who notes that noise from nearby roads decreases further back in the park.
Seasonal activities: Winter months bring increased social opportunities. "This is a park with permanent sites, transient and seasonal people, with the locals prominently making the social life active and fun," reports a visitor to Pioneer Village, noting organized events and activities during peak season.
