W.P. Franklin N
4.79585 reviews17850 NORTH FRANKLIN LOCK ROAD
W.P. Franklin N
$30.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary by site type: RV sites with hookups are $30 per night, and group shelters are available for $35 per night. Mooring boat sites...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$95.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider239-694-8770
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the Caloosahatchee River, W.P. Franklin N Campground beckons adventurers with its coveted waterfront sites and vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts. This riverside haven combines the best of RV camping and boating culture, where mornings begin with the gentle splash of boats launching from the on-site ramp and evenings end with anglers casting lines from the fishing pier. With pristine restrooms, a convenient dump station, and the majority of sites offering breathtaking river views, this beloved campground has earned its reputation as one of Florida's premier waterfront destinations.
W.P. Franklin N accommodates RV camping, tent camping, and boat camping. The campground features cruiser sites for boaters and a mix of waterfront and inland sites.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive away, the legendary Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer glimpses into Florida's gilded age, where two of America's greatest innovators found inspiration beneath swaying palms. The historic beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, with their sugar-white sands and centuries of maritime heritage, lie within easy reach, inviting campers to explore the region's rich tapestry of coastal culture and innovation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the rhythms of Florida's subtropical paradise, where winter transforms the campground into a comfortable outdoor oasis with crisp, dry days perfect for exploration. As summer arrives, the landscape pulses with tropical energy—warm, humid afternoons give way to spectacular sunsets, while mayflies and other insects dance in the evening light, reminding visitors of nature's endless cycles. Peak camping season stretches through the moderate winter months when snowbirds and locals alike gather to enjoy ideal temperatures and cloudless skies.
ElevationSet at the gentle elevations characteristic of South Florida's river systems, the campground rests comfortably above the waterline, providing both security and spectacular vantage points for river watching.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the meandering Caloosahatchee River, this peninsula paradise showcases Florida's wild beauty at every turn. Ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss frame views where dolphins break the surface at sunrise, while bald eagles soar overhead and silver tarpon roll in the current. Prehistoric alligators bask on distant banks as gentle manatees glide through the shallows, creating an ever-changing tableau of wildlife encounters. The tropical landscape bursts with native vegetation, creating a lush backdrop where every campsite becomes a front-row seat to nature's daily performances.
Geological RegionPositioned along the legendary Caloosahatchee River—a vital link in the 152-mile Okeechobee Waterway—the campground sits at the crossroads of Florida's most fascinating ecosystems. This aquatic highway winds through ancient swamplands and modern waterways, showcasing the unique geology of southwest Florida where freshwater systems merge with coastal influences. The surrounding landscape tells the story of millennia, from prehistoric sea beds to modern wetlands, creating a diverse habitat that supports an extraordinary array of plant and animal life.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible options include assistive mobility devices like powered wheelchairs and electric scooters, permitted with proper documentation. Bathrooms are ADA-friendly and received positive feedback from users needing mobility assistance.
Sites SizeSites range from small to spacious, with users noting that some sites are ideal for larger RVs. For example, site #12 easily accommodates a 37-foot fifth-wheel trailer.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy varies by site, with some offering excellent waterfront views and seclusion, while others in the central area provide less privacy. One review stated, "This site is in the center island and crowded with zero privacy. It works for a stopover spot."
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRV campers may prefer shaded sites like 22 and 10. Tent campers are recommended the cove side for reduced wind exposure.
Best CampsitesSites 10 and 7 are frequently mentioned for their prime waterfront views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights per visit within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 people per campsite.
Groups
Group site details are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized with campsites along the perimeter of a peninsula, offering waterfront views for most sites. The central area has grassy open spaces.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground does not have walk-up availability; all sites must be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyStandard $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations forfeit the first night’s fee. Day-use activities lose fees if canceled within 14 days. Changes cost $10 if dates differ completely; no fees for extending or shortening.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The W.P. Franklin N campground offers diverse recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors also enjoy unique cruiser sites where campers can sleep on their boats. Proximity to Telegraph Creek provides opportunities to canoe in swamps and observe wildlife.
Hiking
While the campground does not have on-site hiking trails, nearby Caloosahatchee Regional Park offers excellent hiking and biking opportunities. One user said, "Mountain biking trails just down the road at CRP. We enjoyed the trails every day we stayed here."Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch freshwater and saltwater game fish. One user noted, "We fished (successfully) right from our site!" However, another review mentioned signs warning of toxic algae in the water.Biking
Biking is available at nearby preserves and parks. One review highlighted, "Caloosahatchee Regional Park offers biking and hiking."Boating
Boating is a major draw, with facilities including boat ramps and cruiser sites. One user remarked, "We stayed at a dock. Excellent facility," while another noted, "The campground also has 8 slips for boats."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes alligators, manatees, dolphins, and various bird species. One reviewer stated, "Watching the boats lock through and the fire pit are two of my favorites. Rush was very accommodating."Winter Activities
Winter activities include birdwatching and enjoying the serene environment during cooler months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular. One user recommended kayaking on Telegraph Creek and described it as, "Very quiet and beautiful."Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be locally sourced.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include toxic algae warnings in the river water, alligators in the proximity, and excessive summer heat.
Active alertsToxic algae advisories have been mentioned in user reviews.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services available include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations in nearby Fort Myers, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31, with no shoulder or off-peak seasons specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are centrally located, and recycling bins are provided, though some reviewers suggested clearer labeling and additional garbage cans throughout the campground. One user commented, "Recycling bins were not clearly labeled, which was still not an excuse for selfish campers and day users who dumped their trash into the recycling bins instead of the trash dumpster that was 10 steps away."
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Caloosahatchee River with easy access to water activities including fishing and kayaking.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include excessive brightness from pole lights, small site sizes, weeds in gravel areas, and lack of sewer hookups.
HostHosts are available but reviews note varying levels of helpfulness. Some comments include, 'Carlos was very helpful,' and 'Hosts were friendly but not always visible.'
Campground Map
17850 NORTH FRANKLIN LOCK ROAD
Driving directionsFrom I-75, take Exit 141, following SR 80 E to SR 31. Turn N on SR 31 and travel 4 mi to SR 78. Turn E on SR 78 for 3 mi and turn S on North Franklin Lock Rd into the campground. From I-75, take Exit 143, following Bayshore Boulevard E to SR 31. Turn N on SR 31 and travel 1.5 mi to SR 78. Turn E on SR 78 for 3 mi and turn S on North Franklin Lock Rd into the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved major highways and roads including SR 80, SR 31, and SR 78. No seasonal closures or terrain challenges were noted.Nearby places
Fort Myers (10 miles), Cape Coral (approx. 25 miles), Babcock Ranch (approx. 15 miles), Gulf of Mexico Beaches (approx. 45 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in downtown Fort Myers, including flea markets and shopping options like Publix (approx. 10 miles). Fuel stations are also in the area.
Camper Reviews
4.8
585 reviews
W.P. Franklin N is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for W.P. Franklin N are overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the clean facilities, waterfront sites, and friendly hosts. However, some complaints about maintenance issues, bright lights, and lack of privacy in certain areas were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 585 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlighted the cleanliness, waterfront views, friendly hosts, and peaceful environment as major positives. One user stated, "One of the nicest, well-kept campgrounds (Army Corps or...
Based on 585 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues mentioned include excessively bright lights, occasional maintenance problems like weeds and broken grills, and a lack of privacy in some sites. One reviewer commented, "The incredibly...
Based on 585 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommended specific sites for better views and experiences, such as site #7 for privacy and site #11 for excellent views of the river. "We had spots 9 & 10 for the weekend in late March....
Based on 585 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter months are favored for their cooler weather, while summer reviews noted high humidity and heat. One user remarked, "A winter months favorite, but mid-May was a scorcher."
Based on 585 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Absolutely beautiful campground! Every site is right on the water." "Hosts were extremely friendly and helpful." "We stayed 4 nights in site #07. Nature at its best in every direction you look."
Based on 585 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #10 was praised as "probably the pick of the sites," while site #7 was described as "very private and a great view of the water."
Based on 585 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features received positive feedback, particularly the ADA-friendly bathrooms. One user commented, "The restrooms and showers were nearby and absolutely perfect for me to get in and use."
Based on 585 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and users noted the campground's accommodation of pets, though some cited occasional barking as a minor issue. One review stated, "Most campers had pets, including us. Which means...
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Last updated November 24, 2025
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