The best forest campgrounds near Punta Gorda, Florida

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.

99% (744)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

99% (744)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. J and P Creekside Retreat

100%

(303)

12mi from Punta Gorda · 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.

2. Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(288)

19mi from Punta Gorda · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Englewood, FL

Going on Year 4 as a hipcamp host! We are so grateful to have met such wonderful guests over the years! 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 SW Florida! Hiking trails, horse farms, shopping, restaurants, recreational activities and within minutes from the beautiful FL beaches. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a snowbird vacation!

3. Costa Myakka

99%

(99)

33mi from Punta Gorda · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Myakka City, FL

Welcome to the "Wild and Scenic Myakka River"! Our 20 acre ranch has everything from Longhorn cattle, to a white sand beach. We like to say our sand is like Siesta Key, except it's...in a swamp. Our property is not too far upstream from the Myakka State park, and parking is never a problem. ;-) We have a beautiful homestead, and you have the choice of a furnished camper with water and power hookups in our pasture, or 2 primative tent or RV spots on the edge of a beautiful stand of Live Oak trees and Sabal palms along the river. We have a porta potty on site that is regularly maintained. Bring your family, bring your dog, bring your friends.....and don't forget to bring a fishing pole!

4. Cayo Costa State Park

100%

(9)

39 sites · Dunedin, Florida

Nature rules on this Gulf of Mexico island.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Myakka River State Park

93%

(14)

86 sites · Lake Sarasota, Florida

You're almost guaranteed to see some alligators in this wild ecosystem.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

92%

(189)

17mi from Punta Gorda · 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.

7. N N Farms

98%

(22)

23mi from Punta Gorda · 1 site · Lodging · Arcadia, FL

Fun off grid spirited tiny house. A 5 acre farm with Private 1 acre separate with a tiny house and pond. Nestled up next to our farm with plenty of farm animals to admire! We provide chicken, fish and goat feed for your fun. We have an outdoors area with loads of games. Bring your firewood and marshmallows! Close to Myakka State Park, 45 minutes to many beaches. Small town charm in Arcadia Florida, known for its quaint antique shops. We have a TV with a Firestick and DVD player complete with plenty of dvd’s.

8. Timberline Glamping Sarasota

100%

(6)

35mi from Punta Gorda · 4 sites · Lodging · Osprey, FL

Combining luxury and the great outdoors, our extra spacious completely furnished Safari Tents give large families or groups of friends the extra space they need to glamp in comfort. You'll enjoy a tent like none you’ve ever seen before! The inside of your tent will include: Floor Rugs Beds Lamps Bed linens Chairs Heating & A/C unit (depending on the weather) Electricity outlets for charging your device Keurig coffee maker with (4) K-Cup pods & (2) Timberline Glamping coffee mugs (available for purchase) Mini fridge The outside of your tent will have: A large gravel site (2) Hammocks Charcoal grill with cooking grate Wood fire pit Picnic table String lights

9. Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

42mi from Punta Gorda · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Myakka City, FL

15 acre bmx training farm in Myakka City. Good vibes, pond, lots of wildlife and night sky views! 2.7 miles from Wingate Creek State Park 14.5 miles from Lake Manatee State Park 15 miles from Myakka River State Park We have an outdoor Shower and Gym that can be used by guests. - 2 RV hook ups and plenty of room for a tent set up! - Myakka River and a natural spring pond within walking distance of the campsite. - If wanted you can get up close and personal with some of our cows and chickens! We can't wait to welcome you!

10. Lake Manatee State Park

100%

(6)

54 sites · The Meadows, Florida

Discover Lake Manatee State Park's natural charm and outdoor fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Noda’s Ranch

96%

(13)

44mi from Punta Gorda · 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!

12. Hidden Oak Hideaway Treehouse

100%

(2)

23mi from Punta Gorda · 2 sites · Lodging · Arcadia, FL

Imagine a tranquil retreat that blends nature, simplicity, and comfort. Picture a cozy 100 sq. ft. treehouse—completely off-grid and equipped with a generator-powered AC. The loft area features a plush queen-size bed, while the living space downstairs includes a single futon couch and a charming coffee bar accented with macramé, hanging chairs, and a large picture window overlooking the deer and other wildlife that wander by. This serene escape invites you to reconnect with nature and disconnect from the digital world, with no TV or Wi-Fi to distract you. Unwind in the cozy seating areas inside or on the front deck. You’ll also enjoy the outdoor shower, composting toilet, and cooking area beneath the treehouse equipped with a single one burner propane stove. As this retreat continues to grow, exciting additions are on the horizon: Coming Winter 2026 — a ½-acre, three-pond oasis featuring two swimming ponds, waterfalls, a lazy river, short nature trails, farm-fresh free-range eggs, homegrown fruits and vegetables (depending on availability), an outdoor massage space, a 200 ft. zip line, and much more! Save this spot to your favorites—each year brings something new to enjoy!

Camper favorites near Punta Gorda

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

92%

(189)

17mi from Punta Gorda · 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.

N N Farms

98%

(22)

23mi from Punta Gorda · 1 site · Lodging · Arcadia, FL

Fun off grid spirited tiny house. A 5 acre farm with Private 1 acre separate with a tiny house and pond. Nestled up next to our farm with plenty of farm animals to admire! We provide chicken, fish and goat feed for your fun. We have an outdoors area with loads of games. Bring your firewood and marshmallows! Close to Myakka State Park, 45 minutes to many beaches. Small town charm in Arcadia Florida, known for its quaint antique shops. We have a TV with a Firestick and DVD player complete with plenty of dvd’s.

Timberline Glamping Sarasota

100%

(6)

35mi from Punta Gorda · 4 sites · Lodging · Osprey, FL

Combining luxury and the great outdoors, our extra spacious completely furnished Safari Tents give large families or groups of friends the extra space they need to glamp in comfort. You'll enjoy a tent like none you’ve ever seen before! The inside of your tent will include: Floor Rugs Beds Lamps Bed linens Chairs Heating & A/C unit (depending on the weather) Electricity outlets for charging your device Keurig coffee maker with (4) K-Cup pods & (2) Timberline Glamping coffee mugs (available for purchase) Mini fridge The outside of your tent will have: A large gravel site (2) Hammocks Charcoal grill with cooking grate Wood fire pit Picnic table String lights

Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

42mi from Punta Gorda · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Myakka City, FL

15 acre bmx training farm in Myakka City. Good vibes, pond, lots of wildlife and night sky views! 2.7 miles from Wingate Creek State Park 14.5 miles from Lake Manatee State Park 15 miles from Myakka River State Park We have an outdoor Shower and Gym that can be used by guests. - 2 RV hook ups and plenty of room for a tent set up! - Myakka River and a natural spring pond within walking distance of the campsite. - If wanted you can get up close and personal with some of our cows and chickens! We can't wait to welcome you!

Noda’s Ranch

96%

(13)

44mi from Punta Gorda · 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!

Hidden Oak Hideaway Treehouse

100%

(2)

23mi from Punta Gorda · 2 sites · Lodging · Arcadia, FL

Imagine a tranquil retreat that blends nature, simplicity, and comfort. Picture a cozy 100 sq. ft. treehouse—completely off-grid and equipped with a generator-powered AC. The loft area features a plush queen-size bed, while the living space downstairs includes a single futon couch and a charming coffee bar accented with macramé, hanging chairs, and a large picture window overlooking the deer and other wildlife that wander by. This serene escape invites you to reconnect with nature and disconnect from the digital world, with no TV or Wi-Fi to distract you. Unwind in the cozy seating areas inside or on the front deck. You’ll also enjoy the outdoor shower, composting toilet, and cooking area beneath the treehouse equipped with a single one burner propane stove. As this retreat continues to grow, exciting additions are on the horizon: Coming Winter 2026 — a ½-acre, three-pond oasis featuring two swimming ponds, waterfalls, a lazy river, short nature trails, farm-fresh free-range eggs, homegrown fruits and vegetables (depending on availability), an outdoor massage space, a 200 ft. zip line, and much more! Save this spot to your favorites—each year brings something new to enjoy!

Public campgrounds near Punta Gorda

100%

(9)

Cayo Costa Primitive Campground

18mi from Punta Gorda · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cayo Costa State Park

Panoramic from the canopy overlook! Don't miss this!

100%

(4)

Old Prairie Campground

32mi from Punta Gorda · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Myakka River State Park

Myakka River Cabins

32mi from Punta Gorda · 5 sites · in Myakka River State Park

100%

(2)

Palmetto Ridge Campground

32mi from Punta Gorda · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Myakka River State Park

92%

(6)

Big Flats Campground

32mi from Punta Gorda · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Myakka River State Park

100%

(6)

Lake Manatee Campground

47mi from Punta Gorda · 54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Manatee State Park

Stories from the community

S

Sue

2 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

2 nights at J and P Creekside Retreat

Very laid back with a campsite surrounded by trees. Was looking for a staycation to take a break and rest received it in spades I'll be back. Really enjoyed Kayaking the creek Upstream.

C

Cara

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

I love coming to Trs Lagos! The land is beautiful, George is a wonderful host, and the Scamper is a well kept and comfortable camper. The bed is probably the most comfortable I've slept in. Thanks again for another great night!

T

Tracy

2 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

John's property is very nice. We had a great time with our family. The facilities were comfortable though we didn't take showers. We were able to get firewood from John each night for our fire. Our kids had a great time with the short hike to see a camel, Highland cattle and an alpaca that live on a neighbor's farm.

E

Eric

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

The wife, kids and I had a great time. Beautiful property with plenty of things to do. John was an amazing host. We definitely will revisit again in the future.

D

David

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

Perfect spot for tent camping.Just what the soul needed.

Andrea

2 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

We enjoyed our stay at Bell Oaks Ranch. The property is beautiful, quiet, and full of birds/wildlife. We had the back half to ourselves, so we had plenty of room and privacy. We greatly appreciated the clean bathroom and visited with your super sweet horses every day - thank you for hosting us!!

A

Art

3 weeks ago

2 nights at N N Farms

Kelli’s land truly exceeded my expectations. What stood out the most was how peaceful and spacious everything felt. The little house and the entire property have beautiful details that reflect so much love in every corner. Each outdoor space welcomed me with a deep sense of peace, connection to nature, and the silence I was looking for. Kelli was incredibly kind and attentive, always checking in to make sure we had everything we needed and that we were comfortable. And the fresh eggs she brought us were absolutely delicious. If you’re seeking a serene, nature-filled place with a thoughtful and caring host, this is the perfect spot.

S

Samantha

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

Best spot ever for a weekend getaway. Secluded, but still has stuff to do and a nice clean homey bathroom and shower. We come here every year and love this place!

S

Shelley

3 weeks ago

27 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

Great spot!! Secluded location on cute private farm but close enough to get to things as well! Hosts very friendly and it was a great place to stay! Definitely recommend!

S

Seth A.

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

The host were excellent and kind. Sweet spot to hide out for a couple days. Can conoe, fish, just sit around and enjoy the scenery. Kid friendly and just all around very nicely set up.

S

Stephanie

November 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at J and P Creekside Retreat

Sites were large and well maintained. Great canopy with some open areas for stargazing. Able to launch paddle board from site. Clean well kept rest rooms. John and his son were kind and great hosts. Will definately be back again

h

haylen

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

We loved the land here. Gorgeous, and very secluded! We even got to see the cows before we left. ❤️

D

Dalton Remodeling

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

What an amazing experience. Hesitant to leave a review because this place is going to stay booked and I want to come back often! Best host ever, a frame was cozy and relaxed, great stargazing and fun for my 5 year olds first of camping experiences. We did kayaks, jumped on the trampoline, roasted marshmallows hot dogs and told campfire stories. Also had some great conversations with the host, great human.

J

Judy

November 2025

30 ft fifth wheel

7 nights at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

We loved staying here, our hostess was wonderful.

Dan

November 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

John is always very friendly would do anything to help you he has a beautiful place I definitely will be back again

A

Allie

November 2025

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

What a fabulous experience. The cabin is cute and cozy, and the host is very accommodating and hospitable. We would certainly stay here again and we recommend it to others.

Tara

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

We really enjoyed our campsite! John was an excellent host -- checking in with us but also letting us do our own thing. We brought paddle boards and spent the entire day paddling Shell Creek and taking in the beauty of nature. The campsite was huge and very shady. It mentioned being sloped but that was really very, very tiny. We have a 13' Scamp and easily got it leveled. We will definitely return!

Alexa

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Oak Hideaway Treehouse

My boyfriend and I stayed at Hidden Oak Hideaway on Halloween weekend this year, and it was magical! Jessica is an amazing host, and so responsive and helpful. The attention to detail in this place is unmatched, from the coffee/tea setup, to the fully stocked kitchen area, to the cozy bed with a fan included, Jessica put so much effort into making this place comfortable. The decor inside is beautiful and aesthetically appealing to say the least. It was a wonderful getaway and I would love to go back someday. Thanks again Jessica and Donny!

D

Denise

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

We love camping here, it's so peaceful and quiet. It was lovely watching Oakley and Willow their two horses from our tent, and then being able to pet them. It was unusually cold for the time of year we stayed, and the hosts offered us blankets and jackets, which we really appreciated This was our second stay here and and we will be back again in the future. .

Pavel

October 2025

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

The place is amazing Beautiful cabin with a lot of small details to make stay comfortable. Thank you!!!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(9)

Cayo Costa State Park

Dunedin, Florida

93%

(14)

Myakka River State Park

Lake Sarasota, Florida

100%

(6)

Lake Manatee State Park

The Meadows, Florida

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest camping near Punta Gorda guide

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.