W.P. Franklin North Campground

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W.P. Franklin North Campground1, located in Alva, Florida, is part of the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam area along the Caloosahatchee River. This peaceful campground offers a great opportunity for RV campers to enjoy the beauty of Florida’s riverside while exploring outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The campground provides a quiet, nature-filled environment with easy access to water-based recreation. Here’s an overview of what to expect when RV camping at W.P. Franklin North Campground:

Campground Features

  • Location: Situated on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, the campground offers scenic views and access to the river. The area is known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere and its proximity to the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam, which controls the flow of the river.
  • RV Campsites: The campground features 43 campsites, with many offering water and electric hookups. There are also a few primitive campsites available. The campsites are spacious and well-maintained, accommodating RVs of varying sizes. Some sites are shaded, while others are more open, offering different preferences for those seeking more privacy or sunlight.
  • Scenic Views: Many campsites are located near the river, offering tranquil views of the water and surrounding nature. The peaceful environment is perfect for relaxing, fishing, or birdwatching.

Amenities

  • Restrooms and Showers: The campground has clean restrooms and showers, providing convenient facilities for campers to freshen up during their stay.
  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Most campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, ideal for enjoying meals outside and gathering around the campfire.
  • Camp Store: There is no on-site camp store, so it’s a good idea to bring all necessary camping supplies, such as food, firewood, and toiletries.
  • Wi-Fi and Cell Service: Cell phone reception can be spotty in the area due to the campground’s more rural setting. Wi-Fi is not provided, so plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
  • Boat Ramp: The campground features a boat ramp, providing easy access to the Caloosahatchee River for boating and other water activities.

Reservation and Check-in

  • Reservations: It is recommended to make reservations ahead of time, especially during the winter months and holidays, when the campground is most popular. You can reserve a site through the Florida State Parks website or by calling the park directly.
  • Check-in Process: The check-in process is simple, and staff is available to provide assistance, including directions to your campsite and recommendations for local activities.

Things to Do

  • Caloosahatchee River Activities: The river is a central feature of the campground, providing a variety of outdoor activities:
    • Fishing: The Caloosahatchee River is well-known for its fishing opportunities, where you can catch species such as bass, catfish, and bluegill. Fishing can be done from the shore, from a boat, or from a kayak.
    • Boating and Kayaking: The campground has a boat ramp, making it easy to launch your boat, kayak, or canoe. The river is perfect for a peaceful paddle or a leisurely boat ride.
    • Wildlife Watching: The area around the campground is rich with wildlife. You may spot manatees, alligators, and a variety of bird species such as egrets, herons, and ospreys. The W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam is also a great spot for observing wildlife.
  • Hiking and Nature Trails: There are nature trails around the campground that provide an opportunity to explore the natural landscape. You can hike through forests, wetlands, and along the river to see the diverse ecosystems of the area.
  • Biking: If you prefer cycling, there are nearby roads and trails suitable for a pleasant bike ride through the park and surrounding areas.
  • W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam: The nearby W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam is a significant site for visitors, offering scenic views of the river and opportunities to learn about local water management. You can watch as boats pass through the lock, which is an interesting experience for those interested in how the river system is managed.

Nearby Attractions

  • Lee County Manatee Park: Located just a short drive away in Fort Myers, Manatee Park is a great place to visit if you want to see manatees in the winter months when they gather in the warmer waters. It’s also an excellent spot for kayaking and nature walks.
  • Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve: This nature preserve offers additional hiking and birdwatching opportunities, with a variety of trails through natural Florida landscapes.
  • Sanibel Island and Captiva Island: A bit further out, but a must-see for those looking to visit the Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island is famous for its pristine beaches, shelling, and nature preserves. Captiva Island is nearby and offers a quieter alternative with beautiful beaches and recreational activities.
  • Downtown Fort Myers: Just a short drive from the campground, Fort Myers offers historic sites, shopping, dining, and attractions such as the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

Other Considerations

  • Weather: Florida’s weather can be hot and humid, especially during the summer. Winter months (from November to April) are typically cooler and more comfortable for camping.
  • Mosquitoes: Florida’s swampland areas can be prone to mosquitoes, particularly in the warmer months. Be sure to bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
  • Seasonal Crowds: W.P. Franklin North Campground is popular during the winter months when many campers flock to Florida to escape colder climates. It’s recommended to book your site well in advance during peak season.

Final Thoughts

W.P. Franklin North Campground offers a peaceful, scenic riverside location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in fishing, boating, hiking, or simply relaxing in nature, this campground provides a tranquil escape along the Caloosahatchee River. The combination of well-maintained facilities, beautiful natural surroundings, and access to water-based recreation makes it a great spot for RV camping. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Southwest Florida and experience a more quiet, nature-oriented camping adventure.

  1. Disclaimer: We have no affiliation with this campsite, the information provided here should be simply used a guide to enhance your trip. For more information about this campsite please contact them directly. Our most recent link to their website is: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233661 ↩︎