Collier-Seminole State Park
"Marco Island travelers can reach the park for a day trip into mangrove country and freshwater wetlands. It is a good complement to coastal activities and boating on the island."
Collier-Seminole State Park offers a quiet escape into South Florida's mangrove and freshwater wetlands, with excellent opportunities to see birds, alligators, and other wildlife. The park also preserves a historic tram road used in the early 1900s to move boats across the swamp.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
"Marco Island visitors often make the drive for a different beach experience and excellent shelling. The park’s natural shoreline appeals to those seeking less developed scenery."
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park features a mile of undeveloped beach, mangrove-lined estuaries, and access to the Gulf of Mexico. It is especially popular for swimming, picnicking, paddling, and observing shorebirds and marine life.
Koreshan State Historic Site
"Marco Island visitors can add a historic inland stop to a beach-focused itinerary. The site offers a distinctive educational experience and a peaceful setting away from the coast."
Koreshan State Historic Site features restored historic structures, interpretive exhibits, and peaceful riverfront scenery in Estero. It is known for its distinctive cultural history, picnic areas, and opportunities for paddling and wildlife viewing.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
"Marco Island travelers often visit for a break from beaches and resorts to experience a quieter side of Southwest Florida. The preserve offers paddling and wildlife viewing that pair well with a coastal vacation."
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a remote wilderness preserve in the western Everglades, famous for its rare plants, old-growth cypress, and abundant wildlife. It offers a true backcountry experience for paddlers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and unspoiled Florida habitat.