Picayune Strand State Forest Campground

Naples, Florida

About

Picayune Strand State Forest is the fourth largest State Forest in Florida, covering 74,138 acres in eastern Collier County, approximately 2 miles east of Naples. The forest is named after the largest of several cypress strands that once occupied much of the property. It was logged for cypress and pine trees in the 1940s and 1950s. The area was later drained for the construction of a large subdivision, which was plagued by high summer water levels and a lack of electricity. The natural communities of Picayune Strand and associated ecosystems were harmed by the extensive road and canal system. In the 1980s, a plan was put into place for the state to purchase the land using Conservation and Recreation Lands (CARL) funds. The forest was officially named in May 1995, and the federal government provided $25 million in aid to help complete the land acquisitions. Today, the forest is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and offers various recreational activities, including biking, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and paddling.

Amenities

Available Site Types

• Tent Sites

Local Attractions

• Great Florida Birding Trail
• Faka-Union Bay
• Ten Thousand Islands area