The best camping near Fort Myers with campfires

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Fort Myers is a prime location to explore the incredible diversity of southwest Florida’s nature and wildlife. On the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers is also close to Gulf Coast beaches and the Everglades. From the Gulf of Mexico to Estero Bay, there are endless opportunities near Fort Myers for fishing, kayaking, and watersports in the water shared with dolphins, manatees, and tropical fish. The white sand beaches on this section of Florida are impeccable, and the mysteries of the Everglades are just a boardwalk (or swamp walk for the brave) away. Beach campsites are popular, and if you’re traveling by RV, you’ll find RV resorts with full hookups in town.

94% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Joyful Cedar Farm

1. Joyful Cedar Farm

97%
(17)
3.2mi from Fort Myers · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Tice, FL
Nestled in a serene urban setting, our unique permaculture homestead offers an RV lot for rent, along with a few tent spaces. This is an ideal spot for those seeking a harmonious blend of city convenience and sustainable living. Our homestead is designed with permaculture principles, ensuring a lush, productive environment that promotes biodiversity and self-sufficiency. Tap in with internet service or decompress by a fire. You'll be surrounded by thriving gardens, fruit trees, and a variety of native plants, all maintained using eco-friendly practices. Guests are welcome to participate in our gardening activities, learn about permaculture, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Located just minutes from downtown, you'll have easy access to local attractions, dining, and shopping, while still enjoying the tranquility of our green oasis. Located right near the river, perfect for fishing or launching a kayak or canoe. We're also close to Manatee Park and just off I-75, providing easy access to all the local beaches and nature trails. Enjoy the best of both nature and convenience during your stay! Our urban permaculture homestead offers a unique and enriching experience. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in sustainable urban living!
Pets
Potable water
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Orange River Getaway

2. Orange River Getaway

100%
(25)
6.6mi from Fort Myers · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Fort Myers, FL
Welcome to our 5 acre property tucked away in Buckingham Rural Community. You will have direct river access! My family fell in love with this property when we rescued it from disrepair, it was once known as "Harmony Gardens" and we invite you to join us bringing back the glory. Our property is home to all kinds of wildlife, we have cardinals, bluejays, barred owls, herons, swallow-tailed kites, warblers, huge pileated woodpeckers, and if you wander to the water you may see an alligator or manatee depending on the season. Orange River is the river that passes through the highly rated Manatee Park, we have kayaks and paddleboards available for your pleasure at an additional cost. We have typical comfort restaurants such as Cracker Barrel and Waffle house nearby but I would suggest local flavors of Buckingham Farms and Rum Bucket Grill. I-75 is about 10 minutes away so although we are tucked away, most of FL isnt too far for a day's trip.
Pets
Toilets
Water Hookup
from 
$36
 / night
Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

7. Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

92%
(189)
9.3mi from Fort Myers · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging · 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Inside the barn. Please ask and be aware of the rules before entering

8. Equestrian Retreat

100%
(57)
13mi from Fort Myers · 2 sites · RVs · Alva, FL
Small private equestrian estate. Located in a very rural setting, surrounded by oak trees, cows, horses, tons of native birds and plants. Very close (less5mins) to hiking/bike trails, post office, river boat ramp/dock, farmers markets, grocery stores. Gated with 24-7 surveillance off of a private (10mph) dead end paved rd. Site/s offer high and dry 80’ x 30’ rock and millings parking. Full hook up. 30amp or 50 amp service please specify prior to booking to ensure power needs can be met. Filtered Well water. Dedicated sanitary drain at each site. Surrounded by palm trees, flowers, and bamboo. Post Ian we have built a new chicken coop and are proud to say our hens are laying fresh eggs again for our hipcampers to collect and enjoy! Property is shared by home owner, horses, additional Rv pad, and about a dozen chickens. Quiet and tranquil location. Mutual respect for privacy is required. Currently we are unable to host guests with children. under the age of 15. Well behaved dogs and cats are welcome. Thanks for checking us out! Let us know if we can help book your retreat. Our farm boasts a small but growing nursery, a very active barn and arena for racing horses, tons of wildlife, and generally a safe quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. Please be respectful and bring good vibes 🎯👍🏻
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$73
 / night
J and P Creekside Retreat

9. J and P Creekside Retreat

100%
(303)
25mi from Fort Myers · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Pond at the entrance.

12. Noda’s Ranch

96%
(13)
30mi from Fort Myers · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Port La Belle, FL
Welcome to our ranch and be prepared to be in a country side. We are a family cattle ranch that loves what we do, there are 40 acres to explore, and you can choose the area that best suits your expectations. You can be close to our refreshing area or far away from us. , You may see us around working the land and are welcome to help if you wanna. We are dog lovers and dogs are welcome, we have two sweet and friendly ranch dogs, females, German Shepherd that walk freely at the property. If you love nature you may be surprised by a deer, alligator, hog, armadillo, panther, turtle, rabbit, raccoon, we already saw so many over here, you can see but please don’t touch, remember they are not pets and are free in their habitats! We producing a delicious raw honey just for us, not selling, you can see some working bees. We have some fruits trees like bananas, oranges, lemons, limes, mangos, avocados, that maybe you are luck and are in the season when you arrive, and yes, you are allowed to pick it if in season. Also you are more than welcome to bring any fruit tree and plant here during your stay. You can watch an amazing sunrise and sunset that are memorable. At night you can prepare delicious s'mores, bring your stuff and gaze into the night sky filled with stars like you've never seen. There is a social area with hammock, relaxing chairs, fire-pit, outdoor open shower, barbecue, table. Bring more chairs if you are a big family. If you like fishing, bring your stuff and you can fish at the water canal that are in the back of our property, we already got some delicious yummy Tilapias. The water that we provide come from a well, we use filters to purify it and use as shower and hose, but bring your drink water. You can bring your UTV and ATV to ride over here. If you are in a mood for a horseback, we can share a contact of a lady that bring them to our property, must be arranged prior to visit. Talking about outside the ranch, you can see our neighbors with orange farms, dragon fruit plantations, passion fruit plantations, bamboo plantations, ostrich farm, chicken farm. The town of LaBelle offers a lot to do and you must visit some places like LaBelle Nature Park, and Barron Park, we love to go there afternoons after grabbing a pizza. Talking restaurants, we can recommend our favorites, like a Italian restaurant, Mexican restaurant, a Brewing co, and a delicious Pelican's SnoBall shaved-ice snow cones that we are addicts of it! We are located 30 minutes from town, no stores or gas stations close by. Please come fully equipped with your own utensils, cooking essentials, food and beverages. We're also within 50 miles away of Estero Beach and 44 miles of Fort Myer. Bring sunscreen and a hat, we are in Florida and it is always super hot over here during the day. Don’t forget the bug repellent and a sweater, sometime the temperature drop during night. You may want a flashlight or headlamp for walking around at night. Enjoy the Florida outdoors lifestyle and we hope you enjoy your stay with us!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Camping in the fruit trees

15. SWFL Everglades Camping

98%
(131)
38mi from Fort Myers · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Naples, FL
Our property is 15 minutes South, from I75, 10 minutes from any restaurant or publix. We are a 2 mile drive down a dirt road, through the state forest. We offer 2-3 acres of a choose your own spot camping area. Located within the Picayune Strand State Forest, full of peace and quiet, and plenty of birds. We have a facility building that runs off a generator for running water. With that, we have a washroom, that consists of a large shower, and 2 bathroom stalls. we have then propane heated hot water for a nice hot shower. The sites are very " free range". Nothing that is too designated, so you have a free choice of where to pitch your tent, or park your camper van, or your RV. Come and stay within the Evergaldes in Naples, of SWFL. A special private place like no other. You may have the place all to yourself, or share with others. It is not populated like other campgrounds. The property is a designated farm, and we do have chickens. Day time check-in is 100% recommended. Please be sure to contact me for any and all questions you may have!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Serenity Acres Glamping Retreat

18. Serenity Acres Glamping Retreat

100%
(14)
44mi from Fort Myers · 1 site · Lodging · Arcadia, FL
Looking for the perfect camping getaway? Look no further! Our air-conditioned glamping tent, located in the heart of Arcadia FL, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With plenty of activities to enjoy in Desoto County, including fossil hunting on the Peace River or kayaking, you can find plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Nestled under a sprawling live oak tree on our 10-acre property, our glamping tent has everything you need to make your camping trip a breeze. Enjoy a comfortable king-size bed while listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Our refrigerator, complete with a freezer drawer, will keep your drinks and snacks fresh. And our coffee bar, featuring a Keurig coffee maker, is the perfect way to start your day while watching the sun come up over the orange groves. Outside of the tent, you'll find hammock chairs hanging from the oak tree, a grill cart with a griddle, and a fire pit with a grate for cooking your meals. Plus, our full bathroom, located just steps away from the campsite, offers a flush toilet and walk-in shower to help you feel refreshed after a day of adventure. Book your stay with us today and experience the ultimate glamping adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night

Fort Myers is a prime location to explore the incredible diversity of southwest Florida’s nature and wildlife. On the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers is also close to Gulf Coast beaches and the Everglades. From the Gulf of Mexico to Estero Bay, there are endless opportunities near Fort Myers for fishing, kayaking, and watersports in the water shared with dolphins, manatees, and tropical fish. The white sand beaches on this section of Florida are impeccable, and the mysteries of the Everglades are just a boardwalk (or swamp walk for the brave) away. Beach campsites are popular, and if you’re traveling by RV, you’ll find RV resorts with full hookups in town.

94% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Joyful Cedar Farm

1. Joyful Cedar Farm

97%
(17)
3.2mi from Fort Myers · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Tice, FL
Nestled in a serene urban setting, our unique permaculture homestead offers an RV lot for rent, along with a few tent spaces. This is an ideal spot for those seeking a harmonious blend of city convenience and sustainable living. Our homestead is designed with permaculture principles, ensuring a lush, productive environment that promotes biodiversity and self-sufficiency. Tap in with internet service or decompress by a fire. You'll be surrounded by thriving gardens, fruit trees, and a variety of native plants, all maintained using eco-friendly practices. Guests are welcome to participate in our gardening activities, learn about permaculture, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Located just minutes from downtown, you'll have easy access to local attractions, dining, and shopping, while still enjoying the tranquility of our green oasis. Located right near the river, perfect for fishing or launching a kayak or canoe. We're also close to Manatee Park and just off I-75, providing easy access to all the local beaches and nature trails. Enjoy the best of both nature and convenience during your stay! Our urban permaculture homestead offers a unique and enriching experience. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in sustainable urban living!
Pets
Potable water
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Orange River Getaway

2. Orange River Getaway

100%
(25)
6.6mi from Fort Myers · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Fort Myers, FL
Welcome to our 5 acre property tucked away in Buckingham Rural Community. You will have direct river access! My family fell in love with this property when we rescued it from disrepair, it was once known as "Harmony Gardens" and we invite you to join us bringing back the glory. Our property is home to all kinds of wildlife, we have cardinals, bluejays, barred owls, herons, swallow-tailed kites, warblers, huge pileated woodpeckers, and if you wander to the water you may see an alligator or manatee depending on the season. Orange River is the river that passes through the highly rated Manatee Park, we have kayaks and paddleboards available for your pleasure at an additional cost. We have typical comfort restaurants such as Cracker Barrel and Waffle house nearby but I would suggest local flavors of Buckingham Farms and Rum Bucket Grill. I-75 is about 10 minutes away so although we are tucked away, most of FL isnt too far for a day's trip.
Pets
Toilets
Water Hookup
from 
$36
 / night
Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

7. Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

92%
(189)
9.3mi from Fort Myers · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging · 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Inside the barn. Please ask and be aware of the rules before entering

8. Equestrian Retreat

100%
(57)
13mi from Fort Myers · 2 sites · RVs · Alva, FL
Small private equestrian estate. Located in a very rural setting, surrounded by oak trees, cows, horses, tons of native birds and plants. Very close (less5mins) to hiking/bike trails, post office, river boat ramp/dock, farmers markets, grocery stores. Gated with 24-7 surveillance off of a private (10mph) dead end paved rd. Site/s offer high and dry 80’ x 30’ rock and millings parking. Full hook up. 30amp or 50 amp service please specify prior to booking to ensure power needs can be met. Filtered Well water. Dedicated sanitary drain at each site. Surrounded by palm trees, flowers, and bamboo. Post Ian we have built a new chicken coop and are proud to say our hens are laying fresh eggs again for our hipcampers to collect and enjoy! Property is shared by home owner, horses, additional Rv pad, and about a dozen chickens. Quiet and tranquil location. Mutual respect for privacy is required. Currently we are unable to host guests with children. under the age of 15. Well behaved dogs and cats are welcome. Thanks for checking us out! Let us know if we can help book your retreat. Our farm boasts a small but growing nursery, a very active barn and arena for racing horses, tons of wildlife, and generally a safe quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. Please be respectful and bring good vibes 🎯👍🏻
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$73
 / night
J and P Creekside Retreat

9. J and P Creekside Retreat

100%
(303)
25mi from Fort Myers · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Pond at the entrance.

12. Noda’s Ranch

96%
(13)
30mi from Fort Myers · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Port La Belle, FL
Welcome to our ranch and be prepared to be in a country side. We are a family cattle ranch that loves what we do, there are 40 acres to explore, and you can choose the area that best suits your expectations. You can be close to our refreshing area or far away from us. , You may see us around working the land and are welcome to help if you wanna. We are dog lovers and dogs are welcome, we have two sweet and friendly ranch dogs, females, German Shepherd that walk freely at the property. If you love nature you may be surprised by a deer, alligator, hog, armadillo, panther, turtle, rabbit, raccoon, we already saw so many over here, you can see but please don’t touch, remember they are not pets and are free in their habitats! We producing a delicious raw honey just for us, not selling, you can see some working bees. We have some fruits trees like bananas, oranges, lemons, limes, mangos, avocados, that maybe you are luck and are in the season when you arrive, and yes, you are allowed to pick it if in season. Also you are more than welcome to bring any fruit tree and plant here during your stay. You can watch an amazing sunrise and sunset that are memorable. At night you can prepare delicious s'mores, bring your stuff and gaze into the night sky filled with stars like you've never seen. There is a social area with hammock, relaxing chairs, fire-pit, outdoor open shower, barbecue, table. Bring more chairs if you are a big family. If you like fishing, bring your stuff and you can fish at the water canal that are in the back of our property, we already got some delicious yummy Tilapias. The water that we provide come from a well, we use filters to purify it and use as shower and hose, but bring your drink water. You can bring your UTV and ATV to ride over here. If you are in a mood for a horseback, we can share a contact of a lady that bring them to our property, must be arranged prior to visit. Talking about outside the ranch, you can see our neighbors with orange farms, dragon fruit plantations, passion fruit plantations, bamboo plantations, ostrich farm, chicken farm. The town of LaBelle offers a lot to do and you must visit some places like LaBelle Nature Park, and Barron Park, we love to go there afternoons after grabbing a pizza. Talking restaurants, we can recommend our favorites, like a Italian restaurant, Mexican restaurant, a Brewing co, and a delicious Pelican's SnoBall shaved-ice snow cones that we are addicts of it! We are located 30 minutes from town, no stores or gas stations close by. Please come fully equipped with your own utensils, cooking essentials, food and beverages. We're also within 50 miles away of Estero Beach and 44 miles of Fort Myer. Bring sunscreen and a hat, we are in Florida and it is always super hot over here during the day. Don’t forget the bug repellent and a sweater, sometime the temperature drop during night. You may want a flashlight or headlamp for walking around at night. Enjoy the Florida outdoors lifestyle and we hope you enjoy your stay with us!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Camping in the fruit trees

15. SWFL Everglades Camping

98%
(131)
38mi from Fort Myers · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Naples, FL
Our property is 15 minutes South, from I75, 10 minutes from any restaurant or publix. We are a 2 mile drive down a dirt road, through the state forest. We offer 2-3 acres of a choose your own spot camping area. Located within the Picayune Strand State Forest, full of peace and quiet, and plenty of birds. We have a facility building that runs off a generator for running water. With that, we have a washroom, that consists of a large shower, and 2 bathroom stalls. we have then propane heated hot water for a nice hot shower. The sites are very " free range". Nothing that is too designated, so you have a free choice of where to pitch your tent, or park your camper van, or your RV. Come and stay within the Evergaldes in Naples, of SWFL. A special private place like no other. You may have the place all to yourself, or share with others. It is not populated like other campgrounds. The property is a designated farm, and we do have chickens. Day time check-in is 100% recommended. Please be sure to contact me for any and all questions you may have!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Serenity Acres Glamping Retreat

18. Serenity Acres Glamping Retreat

100%
(14)
44mi from Fort Myers · 1 site · Lodging · Arcadia, FL
Looking for the perfect camping getaway? Look no further! Our air-conditioned glamping tent, located in the heart of Arcadia FL, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With plenty of activities to enjoy in Desoto County, including fossil hunting on the Peace River or kayaking, you can find plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Nestled under a sprawling live oak tree on our 10-acre property, our glamping tent has everything you need to make your camping trip a breeze. Enjoy a comfortable king-size bed while listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Our refrigerator, complete with a freezer drawer, will keep your drinks and snacks fresh. And our coffee bar, featuring a Keurig coffee maker, is the perfect way to start your day while watching the sun come up over the orange groves. Outside of the tent, you'll find hammock chairs hanging from the oak tree, a grill cart with a griddle, and a fire pit with a grate for cooking your meals. Plus, our full bathroom, located just steps away from the campsite, offers a flush toilet and walk-in shower to help you feel refreshed after a day of adventure. Book your stay with us today and experience the ultimate glamping adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Fort Myers with campfires guide

Where to go

Fort Myers Area

Manatee Park is a must-visit in Fort Myers. This waterfront park lets visitors walk along a channel where manatees congregate in the warm water outflow of the Fort Myers Power Plant. Another solid park in city limits is the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, where you can follow a 1.2-mile boardwalk through a diverse wetland that serves as a wildlife corridor for the region. 

Sanibel Island

Don’t be surprised if you hear the word ‘shell’ in verb form on Sanibel Island. Dubbed the “Seashell Capital of the World,” shells from 400 species are known to wash up here every morning, and the pastime of browsing the tide’s bounty of mollusk armor is known as “shelling.”

Fort Myers Beach

For white-sand Gulf Coast beaches where you can kick back and watch the sunset over the water, head to Fort Myers Beach. Dodge the crowds by continuing south on the Bonita Beach Causeway to reach the undeveloped Lovers Key Beach.

Everglades

It’s about an hour from Fort Myers to reach the Gulf Coast Visitor Center of Everglades National Park, where you take a boat tour or kayak into the mangrove maze of the Ten Thousand Islands.

Big Cypress National Preserve

For a more interior view of the Everglades, head to Big Cypress National Preserve instead. Big Cypress shelters the northern section of Everglades. Here you can explore trails through wild swamps, pinelands, and prairies. Gators, egrets, and herons are abundant here. It’s much rarer to spot the preserve’s other famous inhabitant, the Florida panther. As an International Dark Sky Park, Big Cypress is also an excellent place to view the stars.

When to go

Winters in Fort Myers are sunny, temperate, and pleasant. Summers are hot, humid, and rainy. Camping is still possible in summer, but it’s more comfortable in a covered structure with a fan or AC. Summer and fall are also hurricane season, and Florida travelers should keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center’s Atlantic forecast as their trip approaches and when traveling at this time of year.