Collier-Seminole State Park is located in the Florida Everglades. Seasonal camping fees in 2010 are $8 per day during the June to December season, and $13 per day from December to April. Activities include self-guided nature hikes through the adjacent cypress swamp and around a salt marsh. Fishing, boating and canoeing are allowed on Blackwater River, which flows through the park.
This park, near Bonita Springs, Florida, was the site of a pioneer settlement founded by Cyrus Reed Teed in 1894. The site was chosen for its proximity to the Estero River, which flows through the park. Seasonal fees in 2010 are $10 per day for June to December, and $16 per day for December to April. Available activities are fishing, nature hikes and boating. Guided walks are also offered by park rangers.
Florida's largest state park, Myakka ranges over 45 square miles. At Myakka, which is southeast of Sarasota, you can walk or bike wetland and prairie nature trails and enjoy several guided wildlife tours on land and Upper Myakka Lake. Seasonal fees in 2010 are $11 for June to November and $15 for December to April. Myakka offers family campgrounds and six primitive campsites. All reservations should be made 11 months in advance.
Elsa Scherer Burrows donated 462 acres of land south of Sarasota to the state of Florida, to be used as a park. The park was named after Elsa's father, Oscar. Visitors can see scrub jays, a threatened species, bald eagles, bobcats, otters and alligators in the park. Seasonal fees are $11 for June to November and $15 for December to April. Fishing is allowed in nearby South Creek, but a Florida freshwater fishing license is required for anyone age 16 and older.
The Thats Camping website has several tips for the seasonal camper. Call the campsite and ask how the electricity is measured, and what the average balance is. Check what the sewage fees are. Ask the campsite director what activities and stores are near the campsite. Ask if there are any additional storage fees.
