The best camping in Southwest Florida

·

Southwest Florida follows the Gulf of Mexico and blends with the Everglades—but the scenery doesn’t stop there. The region includes state parks, state forests, and a whole lot of beaches. Hikers will love the trails at Picayune Strand State Forest, which come just before Big Cypress. Meanwhile, the coastal tranquility of Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve offers campers the ultimate opportunity to unwind. Just like Southwest Florida’s landscapes, campsites come with variety. Park your RV, unlock your cabin, or take out your tent—campgrounds in Southwest Florida are ready for check-in.

94% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Southwest Florida

1. J and P Creekside Retreat

100%
(305)
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

3. Blue Fox Ranch: Lake & Farm Camp

97%
(354)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Moore Haven, FL
Learn more about this land: Blue Fox Ranch is a serene campsite nestled by a private lake, surrounded by lush palm trees and friendly farm animals, The gentle sounds of water lapping at the shore create a soothing atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting beautifully on the lake’s surface. Campers can gather around crackling campfires, sharing stories and enjoying the warmth of the flames against the cool evening air. The rustic sites are thoughtfully providing stunning views of the sunset. Each site offers ample space for tents or RVs, and there are plenty of trails nearby for hiking and exploring. Whether you're fishing, canoeing, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Blue Fox Ranch is a perfect escape into private small farm with farm animals for a truly new experience that you and your children will Guard forever. Blue Fox Ranch, your perfect getaway on the west side of Lake Okeechobee! Nestled just a mile from boat launch ramps, we’re ideally situated for fishing enthusiasts. Enjoy the nearby wildlife management area, just 3 miles away, or try your luck at Seminole Casino Brighton, only 10 minutes from the ranch. Our friendly farm is home to horses, chickens, ducks, sheep, and cows, all eager for attention—just be mindful, they can be a bit pushy! We’re dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for a peaceful and fun weekend. Experience the charm of our ranch while exploring the beautiful attractions around Lake Okeechobee. We can’t wait to welcome you! Site  1, 2, and 3 have hookups. All others are around the property with no hookups, toilets, showers are available by an outside bathroom by the house. Site 1= Electric and sewer hookup. 30 amps. Site 2= Electric and sewer hookup. 30 amps. Site 3= Electric and sewer hookup 50 / 30 amps. Site 4= No Hookups,  your generator is ok. Site 5= No Hookups, your generator is ok. Site 6=  No hookups, your generator is ok. Site 7= No Hookups, your generator is ok. (Shower and toilet are available )
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night

7. SWFL Everglades Camping

98%
(131)
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
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

9. Magical Pond On Flitterbug Farm

89%
(9)
6 sites · Tents · Labelle, FL
Flitterbug Farm is home to a collection of majestic oak trees covered in spanish moss, ferns, and flowering vines. The oak trees loom high over a glittering pond, which is great for swimming during the summer months when the water is high. Tropical fruit trees, vegetables, herbs, and flowers decorate our gardens while chickens and bees wander the land. Expect beautiful stars, local wildlife such as owls and chameleons, an outdoor shower, and a "hippie hot tub" powered by a campfire. Sunsets on Flitterbug Farm are truly epic. The land is close to 180 miles of local kayak trails (we rent kayaks!), a 10 minute drive from beautiful walking trails, and about an hour from the beach. We offer a rustic composting toilet, a heated outdoor shower, and a simple kitchen with a sink and stovetop. Note: Flitterbug Farm is in a rural, agricultural part of South Florida. The setting is peaceful, but it’s also alive with the sounds of farm life and wildlife. You may hear roosters, dogs, owls, frogs, and the usual country activity from nearby neighbors. We provide complimentary earplugs for light sleepers, and many guests find the natural soundscape part of the charm, but we want you to know what to expect.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

12. Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

92%
(189)
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

13. Serenity in the Tropics

100%
(28)
2 sites · RVs · Englewood, FL
Sleep under the stars and the palm trees in a lovely and quiet neighborhood 15 min from the crystal clear water and white sand of world class Gulf Coast beaches. 25 minutes to Caspersen Beach- shark tooth capitol of the world! Myakka State Park with tropical forest hiking trails and biking, and river kayaking opportunities is only a 20 min drive. Local Thursday Farmers Market in Old Towne Englewood is a can't miss.  Easy access in and out for most sizes of RV's. Site host is next door and can help with information on what's available in the local area- grocery stores, fuel, RV dump sites, restaurants, etc.  RV sites are on each side of a .25 acre lot. A 30 amp plug  and fresh water hookup is available for each site. Dump site is close by at a local RV resort. Pets allowed but must be on leash at ALL times and pet waste must be immediately picked up and thrown away. Trash disposal is available onsite. For the sake of the neighbors, quiet hours are from 9pm-6am. Sites book a maximum of six weeks in advance. Manasota Key- 15 min Boca Grande- 25 min Venice Beach- 35 min Sanibel Island- 1 hr, 45 min
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

14. Lake Huntley Oasis - Pvt Dock -Acre

96%
(37)
3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake Placid, FL
Live the lake life! Watch the sun set over Lake Huntley from your kitchen window, and explore the lake by docking your watercraft (or rent ours message for details) in your backyard, or use our included tandem kayak. This cozy house has three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps up to 9 comfortably. Enjoy plenty of living space, a large screened-in porch, full kitchen, campfire and BBQ grills. The house also includes a one car garage, onsite laundry, and large RV hookup and parking.Learn more about this land:Live the lake life! Watch the sun set over Lake Huntley from your kitchen window, and explore the lake by docking your watercraft (or rent ours message for details) in your backyard, or use our included tandem kayak & 3-person canoe. This cozy house has three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps up to 9 comfortably. Enjoy plenty of living space, a large screened-in porch, full kitchen, fire pit and BBQ grills. The house also includes a one car garage, onsite laundry, and large RV hookup and parking.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

17. Healing Tree Homestead

100%
(8)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · North Fort Myers, FL
Come enjoy a quiet getaway at Healing Tree Homestead. Our 5 acres is close enough to I-75 and in-town amenities to be convenient but far enough away to offer a peaceful rest from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tent site has a clear view of the large pond and property, and the RV site is tucked between a banana circle and the nursery. We’re a working homestead that’s constantly growing and changing, and there are sheep, goats, chickens, a dog, cats and a bunch of kiddos, but we all have our own spaces away from the RV and tent campsites. Part of the property is a nursery, part of it is a young orchard, and most of it is used to free range our livestock. We work and live on site. If you would like to participate in feeding animals, planting trees or helping us prepare garden beds, we’d welcome the company. *Please note that we live off a dirt road that’s very bumpy and rural.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

19. Endless Summer RV Resort

100%
(1)
51 sites · RVs · Naples, FL
Imagine living in paradise every day at Endless Summer, a fantastic manufactured housing community and RV Resort for all ages. With amenities like a clubhouse, community kitchen, and event facilities, there's always something fun happening. Plus, there's a dedicated dog park, so your furry friends can enjoy the fun too! With convenient services like laundry and mail services, life here is easy and convenient. Stay active in the recreation room or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool. And don't worry about staying connected, we've got Wi-Fi too! With affordable homes for sale and rent, Endless Summer is the perfect place to call home for families of all ages. Live your best life in paradise at Endless Summer. Endless Summer isn't just a fantastic community; it's located in Naples, FL, a sunny city with lots to offer. Enjoy beautiful beaches like Vanderbilt Beach or Naples Pier, where you can swim, sunbathe, or go fishing. Explore nature at the Naples Botanical Garden or take an airboat ride through the Everglades. If you love shopping, visit Fifth Avenue South for upscale boutiques and galleries, or Mercato for dining and entertainment. Don't miss out on the delicious seafood at local restaurants or the stunning sunsets at Naples Pier. With its mix of beach life, nature, shopping, and dining, Naples is the perfect place to call home at Endless Summer. Experience the best of community living with a valuable set of amenities here at Endless Summer RV Resort in Naples, FL. The amenities offered at our manufactured housing community are designed to enhance the convenience, comfort, and connection of our residents. From Carport and Clubhouse to Community-Hosted Events and Community Wi-Fi as well as RV Sites, we at Endless Summer RV Resort seek to create a welcoming environment and a community you're proud to call home, not just a place to live.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$68
 / night

Southwest Florida follows the Gulf of Mexico and blends with the Everglades—but the scenery doesn’t stop there. The region includes state parks, state forests, and a whole lot of beaches. Hikers will love the trails at Picayune Strand State Forest, which come just before Big Cypress. Meanwhile, the coastal tranquility of Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve offers campers the ultimate opportunity to unwind. Just like Southwest Florida’s landscapes, campsites come with variety. Park your RV, unlock your cabin, or take out your tent—campgrounds in Southwest Florida are ready for check-in.

94% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Southwest Florida

1. J and P Creekside Retreat

100%
(305)
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

3. Blue Fox Ranch: Lake & Farm Camp

97%
(354)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Moore Haven, FL
Learn more about this land: Blue Fox Ranch is a serene campsite nestled by a private lake, surrounded by lush palm trees and friendly farm animals, The gentle sounds of water lapping at the shore create a soothing atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting beautifully on the lake’s surface. Campers can gather around crackling campfires, sharing stories and enjoying the warmth of the flames against the cool evening air. The rustic sites are thoughtfully providing stunning views of the sunset. Each site offers ample space for tents or RVs, and there are plenty of trails nearby for hiking and exploring. Whether you're fishing, canoeing, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Blue Fox Ranch is a perfect escape into private small farm with farm animals for a truly new experience that you and your children will Guard forever. Blue Fox Ranch, your perfect getaway on the west side of Lake Okeechobee! Nestled just a mile from boat launch ramps, we’re ideally situated for fishing enthusiasts. Enjoy the nearby wildlife management area, just 3 miles away, or try your luck at Seminole Casino Brighton, only 10 minutes from the ranch. Our friendly farm is home to horses, chickens, ducks, sheep, and cows, all eager for attention—just be mindful, they can be a bit pushy! We’re dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for a peaceful and fun weekend. Experience the charm of our ranch while exploring the beautiful attractions around Lake Okeechobee. We can’t wait to welcome you! Site  1, 2, and 3 have hookups. All others are around the property with no hookups, toilets, showers are available by an outside bathroom by the house. Site 1= Electric and sewer hookup. 30 amps. Site 2= Electric and sewer hookup. 30 amps. Site 3= Electric and sewer hookup 50 / 30 amps. Site 4= No Hookups,  your generator is ok. Site 5= No Hookups, your generator is ok. Site 6=  No hookups, your generator is ok. Site 7= No Hookups, your generator is ok. (Shower and toilet are available )
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$29
 / night

7. SWFL Everglades Camping

98%
(131)
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
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

9. Magical Pond On Flitterbug Farm

89%
(9)
6 sites · Tents · Labelle, FL
Flitterbug Farm is home to a collection of majestic oak trees covered in spanish moss, ferns, and flowering vines. The oak trees loom high over a glittering pond, which is great for swimming during the summer months when the water is high. Tropical fruit trees, vegetables, herbs, and flowers decorate our gardens while chickens and bees wander the land. Expect beautiful stars, local wildlife such as owls and chameleons, an outdoor shower, and a "hippie hot tub" powered by a campfire. Sunsets on Flitterbug Farm are truly epic. The land is close to 180 miles of local kayak trails (we rent kayaks!), a 10 minute drive from beautiful walking trails, and about an hour from the beach. We offer a rustic composting toilet, a heated outdoor shower, and a simple kitchen with a sink and stovetop. Note: Flitterbug Farm is in a rural, agricultural part of South Florida. The setting is peaceful, but it’s also alive with the sounds of farm life and wildlife. You may hear roosters, dogs, owls, frogs, and the usual country activity from nearby neighbors. We provide complimentary earplugs for light sleepers, and many guests find the natural soundscape part of the charm, but we want you to know what to expect.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

12. Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

92%
(189)
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

13. Serenity in the Tropics

100%
(28)
2 sites · RVs · Englewood, FL
Sleep under the stars and the palm trees in a lovely and quiet neighborhood 15 min from the crystal clear water and white sand of world class Gulf Coast beaches. 25 minutes to Caspersen Beach- shark tooth capitol of the world! Myakka State Park with tropical forest hiking trails and biking, and river kayaking opportunities is only a 20 min drive. Local Thursday Farmers Market in Old Towne Englewood is a can't miss.  Easy access in and out for most sizes of RV's. Site host is next door and can help with information on what's available in the local area- grocery stores, fuel, RV dump sites, restaurants, etc.  RV sites are on each side of a .25 acre lot. A 30 amp plug  and fresh water hookup is available for each site. Dump site is close by at a local RV resort. Pets allowed but must be on leash at ALL times and pet waste must be immediately picked up and thrown away. Trash disposal is available onsite. For the sake of the neighbors, quiet hours are from 9pm-6am. Sites book a maximum of six weeks in advance. Manasota Key- 15 min Boca Grande- 25 min Venice Beach- 35 min Sanibel Island- 1 hr, 45 min
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

14. Lake Huntley Oasis - Pvt Dock -Acre

96%
(37)
3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake Placid, FL
Live the lake life! Watch the sun set over Lake Huntley from your kitchen window, and explore the lake by docking your watercraft (or rent ours message for details) in your backyard, or use our included tandem kayak. This cozy house has three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps up to 9 comfortably. Enjoy plenty of living space, a large screened-in porch, full kitchen, campfire and BBQ grills. The house also includes a one car garage, onsite laundry, and large RV hookup and parking.Learn more about this land:Live the lake life! Watch the sun set over Lake Huntley from your kitchen window, and explore the lake by docking your watercraft (or rent ours message for details) in your backyard, or use our included tandem kayak & 3-person canoe. This cozy house has three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps up to 9 comfortably. Enjoy plenty of living space, a large screened-in porch, full kitchen, fire pit and BBQ grills. The house also includes a one car garage, onsite laundry, and large RV hookup and parking.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

17. Healing Tree Homestead

100%
(8)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · North Fort Myers, FL
Come enjoy a quiet getaway at Healing Tree Homestead. Our 5 acres is close enough to I-75 and in-town amenities to be convenient but far enough away to offer a peaceful rest from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tent site has a clear view of the large pond and property, and the RV site is tucked between a banana circle and the nursery. We’re a working homestead that’s constantly growing and changing, and there are sheep, goats, chickens, a dog, cats and a bunch of kiddos, but we all have our own spaces away from the RV and tent campsites. Part of the property is a nursery, part of it is a young orchard, and most of it is used to free range our livestock. We work and live on site. If you would like to participate in feeding animals, planting trees or helping us prepare garden beds, we’d welcome the company. *Please note that we live off a dirt road that’s very bumpy and rural.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

19. Endless Summer RV Resort

100%
(1)
51 sites · RVs · Naples, FL
Imagine living in paradise every day at Endless Summer, a fantastic manufactured housing community and RV Resort for all ages. With amenities like a clubhouse, community kitchen, and event facilities, there's always something fun happening. Plus, there's a dedicated dog park, so your furry friends can enjoy the fun too! With convenient services like laundry and mail services, life here is easy and convenient. Stay active in the recreation room or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool. And don't worry about staying connected, we've got Wi-Fi too! With affordable homes for sale and rent, Endless Summer is the perfect place to call home for families of all ages. Live your best life in paradise at Endless Summer. Endless Summer isn't just a fantastic community; it's located in Naples, FL, a sunny city with lots to offer. Enjoy beautiful beaches like Vanderbilt Beach or Naples Pier, where you can swim, sunbathe, or go fishing. Explore nature at the Naples Botanical Garden or take an airboat ride through the Everglades. If you love shopping, visit Fifth Avenue South for upscale boutiques and galleries, or Mercato for dining and entertainment. Don't miss out on the delicious seafood at local restaurants or the stunning sunsets at Naples Pier. With its mix of beach life, nature, shopping, and dining, Naples is the perfect place to call home at Endless Summer. Experience the best of community living with a valuable set of amenities here at Endless Summer RV Resort in Naples, FL. The amenities offered at our manufactured housing community are designed to enhance the convenience, comfort, and connection of our residents. From Carport and Clubhouse to Community-Hosted Events and Community Wi-Fi as well as RV Sites, we at Endless Summer RV Resort seek to create a welcoming environment and a community you're proud to call home, not just a place to live.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$68
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Southwest Florida

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in and near Southwest Florida

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

More campsites in and near Southwest Florida

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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 in Southwest Florida guide

Where to go

Everglades National Park

If you’re looking to hike or cross a national park off your list, you can’t miss the Everglades. The park occupies mainland Florida’s southernmost region, but is easily accessible from the state’s West Coast. Throughout the park, campers can discover more than 30 species of orchids—not to mention various plants, ecosystems, and birds. Lace up your hiking boots, but don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers.

Myakka River State Park

Characterized by live oaks, Florida’s trademark palm trees, and a river of the same name, Myakka River State Park offers a change of pace and scenery from the Everglades. If you’re a birdwatcher, meander along the birdwalk and keep your eyes peeled for soaring osprey and sunbathing gators. And don’t discount the river itself. You can fish, kayak, and canoe in the Myakka River—and embrace the wonders of Florida’s wetlands.

Along The Gulf Coast

If you’d rather keep close to the coast, Southwest Florida’s beaches follow the Gulf of Mexico and range in both style and scenery. Try the beaches near Naples for a camping getaway that offers access to golf courses, boutiques, and museums. Or, embrace the island life altogether and explore Marco Island, Sanibel Island, or Gasparilla Island. Pitch your tent, park your RV, and settle into your campsite. The water is calling.

When to go

The best time to visit Southwest Florida depends on the nature of your trip. If you want to hike, especially in the Everglades, come during the dry season, from December to March. Not only will the weather cooperate, but you’ll also camp within the window for prime wildlife spotting. If you’d rather improve your chances to see sea turtles, however, camp during the nesting period between May and October.