Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground
00 review2121 52nd Avenue , Naples, Florida, 34117, United States
Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campsite fee is $10 per night. Additional charges apply for reservations made online as noted by user reviews.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground, where adventure seekers find their perfect basecamp in the heart of the Picayune Strand State Forest. This back-to-basics camping haven invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature, offering essential amenities like fire rings for evening gatherings, sturdy picnic tables, and convenient portable restrooms. While the water here isn't potable, the experience is pure gold for equestrians, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts who come to explore miles of pristine trails and spot Florida's incredible biodiversity.
Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground provides primitive camping options primarily for tents and equestrian use. The campground does not offer modern amenities like electrical or water hookups, making it suitable for those seeking a rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of Florida history at Picayune Strand State Forest, proudly bearing the name of the region's most magnificent cypress strand. In the northern reaches of this protected wilderness, towering second-growth South Florida slash pines stand as century-old sentinels, their weathered trunks telling stories of resilience and renewal that span more than 100 years of Florida's natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit wisely to make the most of this wilderness retreat. The drier months transform the campground into an outdoor paradise, with comfortable conditions perfect for exploring the surrounding forests and trails. As the wet season approaches, nature takes on a different character—mosquitoes emerge as faithful companions, and seasonal waters may reclaim parts of the landscape, creating a dynamic ecosystem that changes with the rhythms of the Florida seasons.
ElevationThe campground rests at the subtle elevations characteristic of South Florida's unique topography.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a photographer's dream where the wild beauty of Picayune Strand State Forest unfolds in every direction. This remarkable hydric forest ecosystem weaves together a tapestry of cypress strands, shimmering wetlands, and lush subtropical hardwood hammocks. Seasoned visitors rave about the spectacular wildflower displays that paint the landscape in vibrant colors, attracting an enchanting parade of butterflies—from the brilliant orange gulf fritillaries to the elegant white peacocks and striking zebra longwings that dance through the air like living jewels.
Geological RegionDiscover the fascinating world of a true hydric forest at Picayune Strand, where water rules the landscape for much of the year. This remarkable ecosystem showcases nature's adaptability through its diverse habitats—from the iconic cypress strands that give the forest its name to expansive wet prairies, classic pine flatwoods, and mysterious subtropical hardwood hammocks. During the wet season, much of this wonderland transforms into an aquatic realm, creating a constantly evolving environment that supports an incredible array of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeEach campsite accommodates 1 vehicle and 1-2 tents.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are located in an open field with little or no shade, which limits privacy. Some user reviews suggest planting trees to enhance shade and seclusion.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from the road for better air quality due to dust concerns. Sites near the pavilion may experience noise from traffic and nearby activities.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are noted as best, though campers suggest staying away from the road to minimize dust and noise.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Campsites can accommodate stays of up to 2 weeks as indicated by user reviews.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Groups
There is no information on designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has a wide-open layout with limited shade and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but usability varies due to seasonal flooding and mosquito prevalence during wetter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online, with additional charges applying as noted by user reviews.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest walk-up availability is common, with hosts often confirming space is available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor recreation activities, including horseback riding, hiking, bird watching, bike riding, and wildlife viewing. The 22-mile equestrian trail attracts horse riders, while other visitors enjoy stargazing due to the open layout.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, but specific details on trail difficulty and length are not provided beyond the equestrian trail. The trails are part of the Picayune Strand State Forest, known for its natural beauty and wildlife.Fishing
Fishing is mentioned as an activity, but the types of fish and fishing conditions are not detailed.Biking
The campground provides opportunities for off-road biking, but no specific details about trail conditions or difficulty are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen in the area includes deer and a variety of birds. Additionally, the grass is often carpeted with wildflowers attracting butterflies like gulf fritillaries and zebra longwings.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings and grills are available on-site; however, official fire restrictions are not detailed.
- Quiet hours are noted but not enforced. User reviews mention generators running through the night.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent, and flooding can occur during wet seasons. Dust from traffic may be an issue for campers near the road.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger station contact available at 2393487557, additional emergency services would likely need to be accessed in Naples.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season would likely align with cooler, drier months typically in fall and winter.
Trash and recyclingA dumpster is available for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresNon-potable water is available at horse stalls, but no potable water or direct proximity to major water features is mentioned.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of shade, noise from traffic and generators, rule enforcement issues, and seasonal flooding.
HostHosts are noted as being friendly and helpful, especially during winter months.
Campground Map
2121 52nd Avenue , Naples, Florida, 34117, United States
Driving directionsSouthbound on I-75, take exit 111 (Naples Park) and use left two lanes to turn left onto Immokalee Road. Continue on Immokalee for 8 miles, then turn right onto Randall Boulevard. Continue on Randall Boulevard for 3.4 miles, then turn right on Everglades Boulevard. Continue on Everglades Boulevard for 9.4 miles, then turn right onto 52nd Avenue. In 1 mile, the campground will be on your right. Northbound on I-75 (Alligator Alley) from Miami, take exit 80 to merge onto FL-29 North (Everglades City/Immokalee). Continue on FL-29 for 10 miles, then left onto Oil Well Road. Continue on Oil Well Road for 12.7 miles, then left onto Everglades Boulevard. Continue on Everglades Boulevard for 10.5 miles, then turn right onto 52nd Avenue. In 1 mile, the campground will be on your right.
The campground is accessible from paved roads, although some user reviews mention that the roads on the way can be rough. Seasonal flooding and dust buildup from traffic may hinder access during certain times of the year.Nearby places
Naples (approximately 8 miles, 30+ minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Users describe needing to bring potable water and other supplies as they are not available at the campground. The nearest grocery and supply locations are likely in Naples.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground are mixed, with some appreciating the peacefulness and equestrian-friendly facilities, while others criticize issues such as noise, lack of privacy, and poor maintenance of porta-johns.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the quiet atmosphere, opportunities to observe nature and wildlife, and the unique experience of camping alongside horses. The stargazing is described as 'incredible,' and...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from generators, lack of a ranger enforcing rules, poor maintenance (porta-potties described as not cleaned in months), and dust due to speeding vehicles. The...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sufficient potable water, as none is available on-site. Campers also suggested avoiding sites near the road due to dust and traffic. Arriving during daylight hours is...
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Seasonal Insights
Winter sees the presence of a campground host, which helps with organization. Summer may bring more mosquitoes due to the wet season, according to some reviews.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Love it here. Primitive camping is peaceful and a perfect break from city life.' 2. 'The stargazing is incredible, though there is considerable light pollution from Naples to the west.' 3. 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The open layout of the campground and proximity to the road make certain sites less desirable due to noise and dust. Campers are advised to avoid sites near the road.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several users brought their dogs without any issues. One review mentioned, 'We brought both of our small dogs. No problems.'
Last updated August 10, 2025