Camping options around Estero, Florida span from pine forest settings to waterfront locations across various terrain types. Koreshan State Park Campground maintains 54 sites situated near the Caloosahatchee River watershed, while several private facilities offer alternatives with varied levels of development. Campsites in this region typically remain open year-round, though November through April constitutes peak season with higher occupancy rates.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Koreshan State Park Campground provides direct river access with several campers noting wildlife viewing 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," explains one visitor to Koreshan State Park Campground.
Historical tours: Explore the Koreshan Settlement buildings for a glimpse into local history. "The buildings are pretty interesting, as is the beliefs these unusual folks held. History is sometimes fact is stranger than fiction," notes a camper. The settlement includes preserved structures from the early 1900s with interpretive signage.
Fishing opportunities: W.P. Franklin N campground offers excellent fishing access from multiple vantage points. "We fished and it was kinda nice not having dirt in the camp. Whole campground surrounded by water. We enjoyed watching the boats come thru the locks and fishing," mentions one visitor to W.P. Franklin N.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Most sites at W.P. Franklin N feature water views. "Clean, well-maintained campground consisting of 30 spots spread out along the edges of a boomerang-shaped island. All except for 3 sites are waterfront," reports a camper. The concrete parking pads remain level with well-tended pea gravel surrounding sites.
Beach proximity: San Carlos RV Resort & Marina provides quick beach access. "One of the best RV parks I have stayed at so far. It's proximity to the beaches and location on the water makes it a great place to stay," states one visitor to San Carlos RV Resort & Marina. The location puts campers within short driving distance of Fort Myers Beach.
Privacy between sites: Despite proximity to urban areas, some campgrounds maintain natural buffers. "There is plenty of scrub between you and your neighbor...you may hear them, but you won't see them," explains a camper at Koreshan State Park. This vegetation helps create visual separation in an otherwise developed area.
What you should know
Insect considerations: No-see-ums and mosquitoes present challenges at certain campgrounds, particularly during evening hours. "The noseeums about did me in there. No one sits out once the sun starts to set," reports a camper at Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA. Bug repellent remains essential year-round.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters requiring awareness. "Just know there are paths in the back where you want to keep eyes open. Saw rattlesnakes," warns one visitor to Koreshan State Park. Gators also populate local waterways, though most keep their distance when not disturbed.
Traffic noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sound levels at certain campsites. "Road noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly at Koreshan State Park which sits near US-41," notes a reviewer. Sites farther from main roads typically offer quieter environments.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas 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," shares a visitor to Periwinkle Park.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain pools for family enjoyment. "Super clean pool and helpful staff. One of the better maintained KOA campgrounds," notes a camper at Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA. These facilities provide cooling recreation during hot months.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences alongside camping. "Koreshan, as its referred to by locals...is a little gem neatly tucked away between U.S. 41, Corkscrew Rd. and the Estero River. When you pull into Koreshan Historic State Park...time slows down," explains a visitor. The park includes interpretive displays suitable for school-aged children.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Many campgrounds have tight spacing requiring careful maneuvering. "Sites are small but will work for a tent or smaller camper. Ours is 32' and it is really tight for the site," notes a Koreshan State Park visitor. When booking, request specific site dimensions if operating larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Woodsmoke Camping Resort offers full-service connections for larger vehicles. "Office staff is friendly and helpful," mentions one camper. The resort accommodates big rigs with 50-amp electrical service, water hookups, and sewer connections.
Leveling challenges: Some sites present difficulties for larger vehicles. "I'd suggest avoiding site 37 until it's renovated. Big tree in the middle, and soft sugar sand is hard to level," warns a Koreshan State Park camper. Consider bringing additional leveling blocks for uneven terrain.
