Road Trips Starting from Port Charlotte, FL
Best National Parks Near Port Charlotte, FL
Everglades National Park hosts several endangered species, including the Florida panther, and spans 1.5 million acres across the southern part of the state. While preservation attempts were already underway at the turn of the 20th century, it wasn't until 1947 that the area officially became a national park. Currently the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, the Everglades is well-worth seeing for the unique flora and fauna it protects.
Ironically, Dry Tortugas National Park is mainly water, with seven small islands comprising the "dry" portion of the park. Military or architectural enthusiasts should explore Fort Jefferson, which is located on Garden Key. For those ready to dive in, visit the aquatic side of the park to take part in swimming and snorkeling. Boating and camping are also allowed, though since there is no overland road to the camping area, there is no way for an RV to make its way onto the island.
For RVers planning a trip to Miami, there's no better place to stop on the way than Biscayne National Park. This is another park where the aquatic area is more expansive than the dry land, and popular activities for visitors include swimming, diving, snorkeling, and boating. There are shipwrecks to explore, and guests can even go fishing at the park.
Popular State Parks Near Port Charlotte, FL
Myakka River State Park is one of Florida's oldest state parks, and it was the first state-designated wild and scenic river. The cost to camp with an RV is $26 per night, plus taxes and fees. Book a boat or tram tour for an up-close look at the park's wildlife. You can also rent bikes, boats, and kayaks to venture out on your own.
Oscar Scherer State Park is nestled within a bustling urban area and surrounded by highways and roads. It provides a welcome natural oasis in the middle of this sprawl. If you're lucky, you may even spot a bald eagle during your visit! Hikers will appreciate the 15 miles of trails, and while no camping is allowed, RVs can enter during the day for only $5.
Close to Tampa and all it has to offer, Lake Manatee State Park is built alongside a man-made lake and comprises 556 acres of forest, marshland, and scrub. Boating, canoeing, and swimming are popular activities at this park. Overnight camping is allowed for RVs up to 65 feet.
Must-see Monuments and Landmarks Near Port Charlotte, FL
The site of the former hotel Punta Gorda is a memorial to one of the region's first buildings. The hotel, which hosted presidents and railroad tycoons in its heyday, was eventually destroyed by a fire in 1959. Tourists can visit a marker that lives on the former site and read about the history of the famous building. They can also stroll around the neighborhood, which includes the Charlotte County Courthouse and Hector House Plaza.
Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum, located on Gasparilla Island, is less than an hour away from Port Charlotte. It is the only lighthouse on Florida's west coast that remains open to the public. The museum is small but worth a visit. It focuses on the island's history, including the fossil record and information about the native Calusa tribe.
Civil War buffs will enjoy the Attack on Fort Myers memorial near Edison Bridge in Fort Myers. It commemorates the site of the southernmost battle of the Civil War. During this battle, a fort inhabited by the Union Army was attacked by the Confederates. The Confederate army ultimately withdrew, and only light casualties occurred on both sides.
RVshare’s Top Picks for Nearby RV Parks & Campgrounds
Red Coconut RV Park lies directly on the beach. It boasts more than 215 sites, and nearly all of them have beach access. For your convenience, this RV park features back-in and pull-through sites, as well as full hookups.
Lakes Park RV is conveniently located off of the Tamiami Trail, approximately 15 minutes outside of Fort Myers. It offers lakefront sites, full hookups, and daily rates that begin at $50.
Ramblers Rest RV Resort is about 40 minutes outside of Port Charlotte. With 647 sites, there is room for everyone. This waterfront RV resort offers a boat ramp, a fishing area, a playground, plenty of games, a pool, and fitness facilities.
RV Dump Stations Near Port Charlotte, FL
Fort Myers, FL is full of interesting places to explore in an RV, and there are plenty of RV maintenance resources throughout Florida. This list is a collection of the best RV dump stations near Fort Myers based on outstanding customer service. We've included location information, hours of operation, features, and direct links, allowing you to easily choose from both free and paid dump stations near Fort Myers. Most RV campgrounds in the area have RV dump stations available. If you see an RV storage facility, then you can probably dump your wastewater there as well. All that's left to do is search RV rentals in Fort Meyers and get ready to hit the road!
