Sanibel-area campgrounds cater to different camping styles, from primitive island tent sites to full-service RV resorts. Located along Florida's southwest coast where water temperatures average 85°F in summer and 65°F in winter, the region's subtropical climate means high humidity from June through September. Sand fleas and mosquitoes remain active year-round, with peak activity during summer evenings.
What to do
Kayaking from park docks: At Koreshan State Park Campground, paddlers can access the Estero River directly. "The park offers hiking trails and close by access for launching kayaks," notes Mary jo R. The river connects to back bays and eventually the Gulf of Mexico.
Biking island trails: At Cayo Costa State Park Campground, rent bicycles to explore interior paths. "There is a series of trails that run through the wooded sections of the island to explore. There are some truly great views to take in as well as an island cemetery which provides some historical contest," writes David I. Rentals cost $20 for a half-day.
Beach shelling: Search for unique shells along Cayo Costa's nine-mile shoreline. "The shelling is awesome. Lots of different shells and sharks teeth from many varieties of sharks," reports Jeanene A. Morning low tides typically offer the best collection opportunities.
What campers like
Historic attractions: Koreshan State Park Campground features preserved buildings from an early 1900s settlement. "This campground has some history to it, which is pretty cool," writes Eric R. Jennifer adds, "There are Historic buildings with interesting background and guided tours."
Star-gazing opportunities: The relative isolation of Cayo Costa creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The nighttime skies are truly cosmic," explains David I. Another camper shares, "Watch the stars at night. We were there during a meteor shower and had a fantastic show on the beach that night."
Pool amenities: Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA offers swimming facilities that campers consistently rate highly. "The pool was awesome. Everything was clean," notes Steven B. Another visitor adds, "Super clean pool and helpful staff. There is even a hot tub!"
What you should know
Island access logistics: Reaching Cayo Costa State Park Campground requires planning. "Access to the island is by ferry (Tropic Star of Pine Island) although it is possible to kayak to it from Pine Island. This would involve some open water crossing and about a 7 mile total one way trip," explains David I. Ferry tickets cost approximately $45 per person.
Driving distances: Many campgrounds are farther from beaches than they appear on maps. "This is an out of the way park. The map may show that it's close to Sanibel and Ft Meyers but it is not really by car," reports Beth P. about Fort Myers-Pine Island KOA.
Site conditions vary: At Koreshan State Park, "Roads are narrow back by the campground site if you're in a big rig. Sites are also a little overgrown with shrubbery," according to Eric R. Another camper cautions, "Sites have stones and sand. Not a lot of grass or tree coverage."
Traveler
