Camping in Punta Gorda, FL, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Florida
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Punta Gorda

96% (1165 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Punta Gorda

Dog-friendly getaways

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Under $50

88%

(12)

Hart healthy farm

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Learn more about this land:We are a 2 year old tropical fruit farm just starting to grow a bunch of fruit and using permaculture and agroforestry techniques. You will see lots of tropical fruit trees, herbs, lots of plants in general, and lots of wildlife due to the plants and fruits.Campfires are allowed within local regulations. Pets are welcome!

J and P Creekside Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

Bell Oaks Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Englewood, FL

With a year under our belt we are so excited to finally have the chance to host on our property. This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in Florida near top hiking trails, horse farms, and near the beautiful FL beaches.

Area 61 Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Arcadia, FL

Area 61 is a natural 5 acre property with a creek that feeds into the Peace River. We have many different types of wild life that visit including white tail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos and all types of birds including owls. We also have access to the Peace River for canoeing and kayaking trips. Along the creek we also have several terraced waterfalls that provide a wonderful wetland area for the wildlife.

The Resting Place

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Learn more about this land: Van Dwellers and R.V.'s are welcome to our secluded country setting. The whole property is secured with a 6 ft. chain link fence with a locked gate. There is a prepared parking area. There is an acre to explore with great shade trees and sitting areas. A clothesline is available. We are 10 Minutes from the Punta Gorda Airport and 34 miles from Stump Pass Beach. The RV space is level and loose gravel. It allows for vehicles up to 40 ft. in maximum length and accommodates slideouts as well. Your site will have an electric 50 amp hookup, filtered water, and Internet through Starlink.

12 top campgrounds near Punta Gorda

97%

(173)

Bell Oaks Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Englewood, FL

With a year under our belt we are so excited to finally have the chance to host on our property. This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in Florida near top hiking trails, horse farms, and near the beautiful FL beaches.

J and P Creekside Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

Hart healthy farm

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Learn more about this land:We are a 2 year old tropical fruit farm just starting to grow a bunch of fruit and using permaculture and agroforestry techniques. You will see lots of tropical fruit trees, herbs, lots of plants in general, and lots of wildlife due to the plants and fruits.Campfires are allowed within local regulations. Pets are welcome!

The Resting Place

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Learn more about this land: Van Dwellers and R.V.'s are welcome to our secluded country setting. The whole property is secured with a 6 ft. chain link fence with a locked gate. There is a prepared parking area. There is an acre to explore with great shade trees and sitting areas. A clothesline is available. We are 10 Minutes from the Punta Gorda Airport and 34 miles from Stump Pass Beach. The RV space is level and loose gravel. It allows for vehicles up to 40 ft. in maximum length and accommodates slideouts as well. Your site will have an electric 50 amp hookup, filtered water, and Internet through Starlink.

Area 61 Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Arcadia, FL

Area 61 is a natural 5 acre property with a creek that feeds into the Peace River. We have many different types of wild life that visit including white tail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos and all types of birds including owls. We also have access to the Peace River for canoeing and kayaking trips. Along the creek we also have several terraced waterfalls that provide a wonderful wetland area for the wildlife.

100%

(4)

Bratty Paws Dog Plex

1 site · RV10 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

We are a Dog Sports training and Event center. We primarily host Dog Agility events. We offer RV hookups for exhibitors and campers. We are 2 minutes off I75 and super convenient for shopping, food, and fun! We are 10 acres of manicured land with plenty of green space for you and your dog. Our property has a dog dock diving pool that is available for an additional charge. Although the Google photo shows our facility from a few years back, be assured the construction isth 14 level pull-through all complete wi sites!

98%

(61)

Gulf Coast Getaway

6 sites · RVs5 acres · North Fort Myers, FL

Gulf Coast Getaway is located in North Fort Myers Florida. Our RV Sites are located on raised-up gravel sites with 50 AMP electric hook-ups and water hook-ups. If you have any additional questions please feel free to send us a message. :) We are centrally located in the rural area of the Bayshore Community with only a 5-minute drive to I-75, a 20-minute drive to Downtown Fort Myers, and a 20-minute drive to Babcock Ranch. Being only 5 minutes away from I-75 makes it quick and easy to either drive down south to Bonita Springs to enjoy our local beaches or north to Punta Gorda to explore! Downtown Fort Myers is about a 20-minute drive and has many local restaurants and shops if you want to go out and about. They typically have events on the weekends like Art Walk and Music Walk! We are a 20-minute drive from Babcock Ranch which is the first solar-powered town in America. It is a community open to the public that has several walking/biking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking/fishing, and a small dog park. They also have a restaurant (Lakehouse Kitchen & Bar) that looks out over the water and live entertainment on certain days of the week! If you are looking for a full farm-to-table experience, Buckingham Farms is 20 minutes from us and is a 85-acre farm with fresh produce grown hydroponically! We are also about 20 minutes from 31 Produce/Cracker Shack Cafe which is a local U-Pick farm that has seasonal fruits/vegetables available, as well as a restaurant, farm animals, and "gem mining"! With just a 1 to 2-minute drive, we have two parks, Nalle Grade Park and Pop Ash Creek Preserve, for those who enjoy nature walks, fishing, or birding. There are also a handful of other nature preserves and parks in the local area that are around a 20 to 25-minute drive! There are many other restaurants, parks, and local businesses nearby for you to enjoy if you want to get out and explore the local area! **We will interact as little or as much as you want.** ***We are a working farm/nursery open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 10am - 5pm*** ***We do NOT have an on-site dump station but there is a full-service Love's Travel Stop about 7 minutes away from us.***

93%

(14)

Scenic Waterway

7 sites · RVs1 acre · North Port, FL

Friendly pets welcome. Spacious park-like waterfront setting of back yard, considered by most to be a safe area. Trash and recycle bins, bench swing, outside seating and tables, kayak launch on canal. Peak season is January and February when this area is extremely competitive to find camping. I don't consider my hosting service a business, but rather a cost shared meeting place. The city/county won't allow monthly; therefore is 30 days max, plus this is intended to be a meeting spot to assist travelers and meet new people, not for long term housing. Orderly and clean property: You and your RV / vehicle must be fairly presentable. No smoking on property. Your RV / vehicle must be in good condition and not in disarray; old vehicles OK if no visible duck tape, etc. Please note HipCamp does not allow me to see phone numbers, so if you type it in a message, I will not be able to call you. You should be able to see which sites and days are available as well as make a reservation on this website, therefore no need to ask me in a message if any site / days are available. Host is 55, single, retired from a large variety of jobs to include two years in Army "intel" and has an interest in most everything. Diet is strictly healthy which mainly omits sugar and corn syrup. Have lived in a campervan six years full time from 2016 to 2021; traveled most of the U.S. to include Alaska but not Hawaii. Have visited popular Canadian areas. Have a 2018 Ford Transit customized campervan. Born in Ohio, grew up in Texas / Arkansas. Bought this Florida home in early 2021 that is energy efficient and withstands strong storms well, but not storm proof. Worked diligently for three years to upgrade and improve the property.

92%

(142)

Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · North Fort Myers, FL

Tres Lagos Camping is part of the Florida agritourism initiative. Where travelers from all over the world come to experience and enjoy a different kind of florida. We’re a small 5 acre family farm involved in the cultivation and preservation of rare and endangered palms with many other edible tropical plants for our visitors to enjoy. You can view our palms at all stages of growth from seed to maturity. Enjoy our U-pick varieties of mangos, Caribbean cherries, sugar cane, bananas, coconuts and we’re adding more all the time. There is even a sugarcane maze and bamboo gardens in progress for the kids and adults to enjoy. But don’t forget your veggies! Get up close and personal with where some of your medicines and vegetables come from. We have some small areas for education about different medicinal plants like Turmeric, ginger, saw palmetto and a few others. Take the tours or classes or just sit back and enjoy the view! Hope to see you soon.

100%

(12)

Quiet Acres

3 sites · RVs6 acres · Fort Myers Shores, FL

Come and enjoy our peaceful on nearly 6 acres of property. On site we have a fire pit available, creek and pond for fishing and a forested area you can take a nice stroll through as well as a mile long road we live on where you can enjoy the scenery of the neighborhood farms with a beautiful sunset backdrop. We have a variety of spots you can choose for boondocking and our full hook-up site is right next to the house. Located only 20 minutes from downtown Ft Myers, 5 minutes from Babcock Ranch and 40 minutes to Punta Gorda. Our property is located about a mile off the main highway which allows for only the sounds of nature and 8 min to freeway access. There is a marina and river access a few miles down the road. Mountain biking, hiking and equestrian trails nearby as well as Kayaking/paddle boarding areas. ORV trails reasonably close. Can accommodate longer stays but please contact by message first regarding this and possible discount for longer stays.

100%

(2)

The Bohemian Hideaway

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Port Charlotte, FL

Glamp in style in a this Swiss family Robinson inspired converted bus on my Primitive , off grid waterfront property with firepit! The bus comes equipped with a dry camp toilet with bags, one burner propane stove, coffee pour over, rechargeable blender, solar power , 5 gal water for kitchenette sink, tv , AC (need to rent generator or bring your own) small chest style fridge and queen size bed! This rental is only for 2 people. We also have extra rentals that include outdoor movie, $65 kayak rentals, $65 one or $100 for 2 date night packages, $55 art packages $25 2000 W gas generator to run AC $75 Propane heater $45 This is a private and primitive waterfront site that is Very secluded area in the woods ,but you are only 7 min from town (Walmart, Publix, Starbucks..etc). Tons of great fishing , kayaking or late night outdoor movies to be had here. Ditch the cell phones and connect with your partner and nature here at the Bohemian hideaway!

98%

(126)

Privacy in Fort Ogden

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Arcadia, FL

Welcome to Privacy in Fort Ogden! We are located in Fort Ogden, 45 minutes north of Fort Myers, FL. We have 4 RV/tent campsites available to choose from. We can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. The sites are flat, no hookups are available at this time. Amenities include a picnic table, toilet, potable water, and BBQ + cooking equipment. We are pet-friendly (on leash). Campfires permitted.

Star Hosts in Punta Gorda

98%

(50)

Area 61 Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Arcadia, FL

Area 61 is a natural 5 acre property with a creek that feeds into the Peace River. We have many different types of wild life that visit including white tail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos and all types of birds including owls. We also have access to the Peace River for canoeing and kayaking trips. Along the creek we also have several terraced waterfalls that provide a wonderful wetland area for the wildlife.

Gulf Coast Getaway

6 sites · RVs5 acres · North Fort Myers, FL

Gulf Coast Getaway is located in North Fort Myers Florida. Our RV Sites are located on raised-up gravel sites with 50 AMP electric hook-ups and water hook-ups. If you have any additional questions please feel free to send us a message. :) We are centrally located in the rural area of the Bayshore Community with only a 5-minute drive to I-75, a 20-minute drive to Downtown Fort Myers, and a 20-minute drive to Babcock Ranch. Being only 5 minutes away from I-75 makes it quick and easy to either drive down south to Bonita Springs to enjoy our local beaches or north to Punta Gorda to explore! Downtown Fort Myers is about a 20-minute drive and has many local restaurants and shops if you want to go out and about. They typically have events on the weekends like Art Walk and Music Walk! We are a 20-minute drive from Babcock Ranch which is the first solar-powered town in America. It is a community open to the public that has several walking/biking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking/fishing, and a small dog park. They also have a restaurant (Lakehouse Kitchen & Bar) that looks out over the water and live entertainment on certain days of the week! If you are looking for a full farm-to-table experience, Buckingham Farms is 20 minutes from us and is a 85-acre farm with fresh produce grown hydroponically! We are also about 20 minutes from 31 Produce/Cracker Shack Cafe which is a local U-Pick farm that has seasonal fruits/vegetables available, as well as a restaurant, farm animals, and "gem mining"! With just a 1 to 2-minute drive, we have two parks, Nalle Grade Park and Pop Ash Creek Preserve, for those who enjoy nature walks, fishing, or birding. There are also a handful of other nature preserves and parks in the local area that are around a 20 to 25-minute drive! There are many other restaurants, parks, and local businesses nearby for you to enjoy if you want to get out and explore the local area! **We will interact as little or as much as you want.** ***We are a working farm/nursery open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 10am - 5pm*** ***We do NOT have an on-site dump station but there is a full-service Love's Travel Stop about 7 minutes away from us.***

J and P Creekside Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

Bell Oaks Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Englewood, FL

With a year under our belt we are so excited to finally have the chance to host on our property. This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in Florida near top hiking trails, horse farms, and near the beautiful FL beaches.

Quiet Acres

3 sites · RVs6 acres · Fort Myers Shores, FL

Come and enjoy our peaceful on nearly 6 acres of property. On site we have a fire pit available, creek and pond for fishing and a forested area you can take a nice stroll through as well as a mile long road we live on where you can enjoy the scenery of the neighborhood farms with a beautiful sunset backdrop. We have a variety of spots you can choose for boondocking and our full hook-up site is right next to the house. Located only 20 minutes from downtown Ft Myers, 5 minutes from Babcock Ranch and 40 minutes to Punta Gorda. Our property is located about a mile off the main highway which allows for only the sounds of nature and 8 min to freeway access. There is a marina and river access a few miles down the road. Mountain biking, hiking and equestrian trails nearby as well as Kayaking/paddle boarding areas. ORV trails reasonably close. Can accommodate longer stays but please contact by message first regarding this and possible discount for longer stays.

Available this weekend

100%

(4)

Bratty Paws Dog Plex

1 site · RV10 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

We are a Dog Sports training and Event center. We primarily host Dog Agility events. We offer RV hookups for exhibitors and campers. We are 2 minutes off I75 and super convenient for shopping, food, and fun! We are 10 acres of manicured land with plenty of green space for you and your dog. Our property has a dog dock diving pool that is available for an additional charge. Although the Google photo shows our facility from a few years back, be assured the construction isth 14 level pull-through all complete wi sites!

J and P Creekside Retreat

7 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

Scenic Waterway

7 sites · RVs1 acre · North Port, FL

Friendly pets welcome. Spacious park-like waterfront setting of back yard, considered by most to be a safe area. Trash and recycle bins, bench swing, outside seating and tables, kayak launch on canal. Peak season is January and February when this area is extremely competitive to find camping. I don't consider my hosting service a business, but rather a cost shared meeting place. The city/county won't allow monthly; therefore is 30 days max, plus this is intended to be a meeting spot to assist travelers and meet new people, not for long term housing. Orderly and clean property: You and your RV / vehicle must be fairly presentable. No smoking on property. Your RV / vehicle must be in good condition and not in disarray; old vehicles OK if no visible duck tape, etc. Please note HipCamp does not allow me to see phone numbers, so if you type it in a message, I will not be able to call you. You should be able to see which sites and days are available as well as make a reservation on this website, therefore no need to ask me in a message if any site / days are available. Host is 55, single, retired from a large variety of jobs to include two years in Army "intel" and has an interest in most everything. Diet is strictly healthy which mainly omits sugar and corn syrup. Have lived in a campervan six years full time from 2016 to 2021; traveled most of the U.S. to include Alaska but not Hawaii. Have visited popular Canadian areas. Have a 2018 Ford Transit customized campervan. Born in Ohio, grew up in Texas / Arkansas. Bought this Florida home in early 2021 that is energy efficient and withstands strong storms well, but not storm proof. Worked diligently for three years to upgrade and improve the property.

Hart healthy farm

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Learn more about this land:We are a 2 year old tropical fruit farm just starting to grow a bunch of fruit and using permaculture and agroforestry techniques. You will see lots of tropical fruit trees, herbs, lots of plants in general, and lots of wildlife due to the plants and fruits.Campfires are allowed within local regulations. Pets are welcome!

Area 61 Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Arcadia, FL

Area 61 is a natural 5 acre property with a creek that feeds into the Peace River. We have many different types of wild life that visit including white tail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos and all types of birds including owls. We also have access to the Peace River for canoeing and kayaking trips. Along the creek we also have several terraced waterfalls that provide a wonderful wetland area for the wildlife.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

The secluded beaches on the north side of the island can be reached by bike.

100%

(9)

Cayo Costa State Park

Dunedin, Florida

100%

(9)

Oscar Scherer State Park

Osprey, Florida

96%

(13)

Myakka River State Park

Lake Sarasota, Florida

Lake Manatee State Park

The Meadows, Florida

Camping near Punta Gorda guide

Overview

Set on the western coast of Florida halfway between Sarasota and Naples, Punta Gorda boasts nearby nature reserves and world-class beaches with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Water activities are a particularly big draw for Hipcampers, who take to the rivers for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in places like Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park or Myakka River State Park. Anglers can try to hook barracuda, snook, sharks, or grouper. Diverse wildlife, including manatees, bald eagles, and alligators, populate the area—get up close and personal at the Peace River Wildlife Center. RV and tent campsites are plentiful, and camping near the major state parks offers easy access to hiking trails, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.

Where to go

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park

Just a few miles south of Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park spans over 45,000 acres of natural wilderness and over 100 miles of shoreline. It presents an excellent opportunity to observe such wildlife as manatees, dolphins, and wading birds in mangrove forests, marshes, and pine flatwoods. Kayaks and canoes are the best way to explore the park’s natural beauty. Visitors can explore other areas, but they are remote and primitive, so stick to the trails for cycling and hiking. Several nearby RV resorts offer full hookups for water and electricity, plus boat launches and pools.

Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park features a vast wildflower field covered in coreopsis, the state wildflower of Florida. Found at Big Flats Marsh, the yellow blooms are at their most abundant around the middle of May. Canoe, kayak, and fish along the namesake river, or explore miles of hiking and biking trails among pinelands and wetlands. The park also offers wildlife tours by boat and tram. Look out for osprey, limpkins, turtles, and alligators. The park offers six primitive campgrounds for backpackers, including firepits but no potable water. The three larger campgrounds support pet-friendly RV camping with 50-amp service, water hookups, and picnic tables. Some sites have wifi. Laundry, restrooms, and hot showers are here, too.

Oscar Scherer State Park

Easily accessible by major highways and next door to modern housing developments, Oscar Scherer State Park is a natural sanctuary for Florida scrub-jay. The beautiful blue-and-white bird is found only in Florida. The human-made Lake Osprey is a popular spot in summer for freshwater swimming and fishing, catching redfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass. In the winter, bald eagles return to nest here. Look for bobcats, gopher tortoises, and Eastern cottontail rabbits, too. Both tent and RV camping are offered here, including full hookups for electricity and water. Other amenities include grills, picnic tables, playgrounds, accessible restrooms, hot showers, and laundry facilities.

When to go

Like elsewhere in Florida, year-round camping near Punta Gorda is very possible. Many RV resorts with modern amenities can be found throughout the area, providing convenient 50-amp hookups, dump stations, and swimming pools. Temperatures are milder during the winter months, from December to February, making a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities. Migratory birds are another reason to visit in winter. Springtime brings wildflowers, like at Myakka River State Park. Camping during summer can be hot and humid, plus it is hurricane season, so prepare accordingly with plenty of water and other supplies.