RV campgrounds near Sanibel, Florida typically remain open year-round with seasonal pricing fluctuations. Access to these facilities varies after storm events, with several parks implementing ongoing infrastructure improvements since Hurricane Ian. Most campgrounds operate with concrete pads and full hookup capabilities, though some facilities impose strict restrictions on pet areas and outdoor fires due to local regulations.
What to do
Beach access options: Gulf Waters RV Resort provides convenient beach access with a trolley stop adjacent to the property. "Trolly next door to take you to beach. Very convenient to everything," notes a recent visitor who found the location practical for regular beach trips.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: RV parks in the region offer diverse wildlife observation opportunities beyond standard beach activities. "Lots of wildlife: birds, alligators, and rabbits," reports a camper who stayed at Encore Harbor Lakes, highlighting the natural surroundings despite the developed setting.
Fruit tree nursery: For a unique experience, consider booking at smaller properties with agricultural components. "Could not leave without getting a couple of fruit trees," mentions a long-term visitor at NOFO GROVES Getaway, which combines camping with access to a working fruit tree nursery.
What campers like
Seasonal community activities: Winter residents particularly appreciate the social aspects of these parks. At Encore Pioneer Village, "the locals prominently making the social life active and fun" according to a seasonal visitor who noted the mix of "permanent sites, transient and seasonal people."
Pool facilities: Aquatic amenities remain operational at most facilities despite hurricane recovery. "The pool was really big and beautiful, the hot tub nice, and the showers very clean," reports a visitor to Encore Harbor Lakes, though they noted the distance from oceanfront areas.
Canadian enclaves: Some parks feature distinct cultural sections within the property. Pioneer Village includes "a big contingent from Canada also has a section they call their slice of Quebec," creating familiar community atmospheres for international visitors who return annually.
What you should know
Mixed-use properties: Many RV parks combine various accommodation types. "This is more of a trailer park than a campground. There are lots of older permanent campers setup among the 'campsites,'" explains a visitor to Fort Myers / Pine Island KOA Holiday, noting that promotional images can be "pretty misleading."
Site spacing considerations: Space limitations affect most Sanibel area RV parks. "Very tight. And the other issue is that there are a lot of seasonal sites mixed in that are not well kept with old cars and junk scattered around," observes a visitor who otherwise enjoyed the amenities and location.
Hurricane recovery status: Post-hurricane reconstruction continues to impact facilities. "To be fair, they are still recovering from hurricane Ian. Some of the sites are very nice and well kept and others look like they have very long term residents who don't clean up after themselves very well," explains a recent visitor to Encore Gulf View.
Tips for camping with families
Pool-centric activities: Families seeking swimming options should prioritize facilities with well-maintained pools. One camper at Fort Myers Beach RV Resort noted, "Full hookups, and pool was nice. Also they have shuffleboard available which was fun and staff was very friendly," highlighting recreational options beyond beach access.
Tight quarters preparation: Prepare children for limited site space at most facilities. "This place had zero outside living space due to they cram everyone in there," explains a Florida resident who visited Fort Myers Beach RV Resort, noting they "couldn't even put our awning all the way out for fear it would hit the next trailer."
Shower facility quality: Family-friendly bathroom facilities vary significantly between properties. At one campground, "The front bathroom has just been redone and is very nice. The back one is OK," indicating that requesting specific site locations near preferred facilities benefits families with children.
Tips from RVers
Laundry card systems: Budget for additional expenses at parks using card-based laundry services. "They use the card system so you have to pay $5 just to get the card and then the minimum you can purchase is $10 so you better need to do a lot of laundry to get your $15 dollars worth," advises an RVer at one facility.
Drainage issues: Low-lying campgrounds throughout the region experience water management challenges during rain events. "There is no drainage - it rained and I woke up to find my camper surrounded by 4" of water," cautions one visitor about potential flooding, recommending positioning rigs with elevation in mind.
Extended stay options: Working travelers can find accommodations for multi-month periods. "I stayed with Mrs Melinda and family from March to October 2023, my first time ever camping out…the most amazing, and very nice family and property," reports a worker who used NOFO GROVES Getaway as a base while employed in the area.
