Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: park (35) history (18) state (13) interesting (13) time (13) buildings (11) trails (11) nice (10) trail (10) beautiful (10)
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  • 4/5 Daniel R. 4 months ago on Google • 819 reviews
    This might be one of the weirdest state parks I have ever visited. This is a park dedicated to telling the story of a cult from the early 1900's that somehow was able to pay the state of Florida to memorialize their cult by dedicating a park in their honor. While certainly interesting and bizarre, it seems inappropriate. The buildings are interesting and there is a nice walking trail. All the volunteers were very helpful.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cynthia M. 1 year ago on Google
    We went not realizing how special this place was. Went on a Sunday Morning for the farmers market and once there ignored that altogether and explored this amazing place from our History instead! They do also provide tours at $10 a person and have plenty of shade and picnic tables so it's a great place to go for a family outing. Parking is $5 a car. We loved it so much we plan on going back to get the full tour experience sometime in the near future. With all the history being removed these days I'm so glad to have found this little gem!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leosheen K. 9 months ago on Google
    I must say it was an absolutely delightful experience. From the moment I stepped foot into the park, I was captivated by its natural beauty and serene ambiance. First and foremost, the park's location is truly remarkable. Nestled amidst the lush greenery and pristine landscapes, Koreahan State Park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's a hidden gem that provides a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park's trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of options for hikers of all levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you'll find trails that cater to your preferences. The pathways wind through forests, around sparkling lakes, and offer breathtaking views at every turn. I particularly enjoyed the scenic overlooks that provided panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John W (. 4 months ago on Google • 898 reviews
    A hidden gem and part of the Florida Park stem system. Such an interesting history. They park rangers are knowledgeable and helpful. They have tent and camper parking. Great location near Bonita. There are trails and dogs are allowed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacob B. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is is full of history! And the lay of it is incredible! I never knew this place was even here. But once I learned about it I’ve already visited twice. The people that built this place built it to last, and the workers and employees at this state park keep it well maintained. These people were making their own electricity and water and everything they needed! It’s a really neat place to check out! I love seeing history and learning things about the place I live! This is a really good state park! I love it
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ezra H. 5 months ago on Google • 118 reviews
    I absolutely love staying at the state park if I could just move in and live here I would it is very peaceful here and that’s hard to find in such a very busy area in Florida. It is a great relaxing getaway. Every time I get to stay here. The sites are always so clean no problems. The only problem is everyone wants to stay here on the weekends so it’s hard to find availability on the weekends but that is not the park fault that just goes to show how nice of a park. It is that it will completely get booked up on the weekends because it’s so popular.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pj d. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to rent a kayak. $10 for first hour, $5 every hour after for a single. Rentals start at 9 am. Returns by 4 pm. You rent at the ranger station at the entrance. These are heavy, ocean kayaks. Paddled to Estero Bay. First part is built up with boats and homes then just wilderness. I went at 9 so it was quiet and peaceful. Mainly saw lots of birds. About 5 miles round trip to the bay. Some wind made it challenging. Took me 3 hours, no stopping except for pictures.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 R B. 1 year ago on Google
    Very informative historical setting of a "religious" group that settled in the area. It was very interesting to see original homes, bakery, workshop and many other buildings from so long ago. Even an operational electric power manufacturing generator for the community. October through April there is more activity with demonstrations and other activities. We were there at a dien time in July but you can still take a self guided your and see into the buildings and grounds at your leisure. It was a fun few hours outside walking around and seeing local history.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Juan 2 months ago on Google • 28 reviews New
    Great park it’s has some interesting / creepy history. It is dog friendly if you have a leash and it’s a decent length . You do have to pay to get in but it supports the parks!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Becky E. 11 months ago on Google
    This state park is beautiful and preserves an amazing story. I knew nothing about this history before going. The buildings are well preserved, and the artifacts in excellent condition. The volunteers were engaging, enthusiastic, and so knowledgeable!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 David W. 9 months ago on Google
    The settlement area is cool and interesting to tour. Great place to kayak. Camping is another story. Most of the sites are horrible and poorly maintained. Mostly all sand. Found a spot where they have a huge pile of rocks for the sites and it’s just sitting there. I’ve been to many state parks in the state of Florida and they are all rock covered. Got a few rainstorms and the only thing happened to mostly every site, they went underwater and then they were a mud-pad. It appears they allow homeless people to camp also which makes it very undesirable because they are not here to enjoy the camping and environment. They are just there to use it to live and they treat it like a dump. I complained to the park staff and all they did was move them to a campsite “closer to me.” How unprofessional that was. The bathhouse is very old and outdated. The grout looks like it’s got embedded mold and some of the tile is falling off the walls in some of the showers. Either this is management not addressing it or it’s the state not taking care of it. This could be a super park if it was better maintained at the campsites. Also, when obviously somebody is here just to live and not enjoy the true camping experience, there should be rules in place to a least maintain a clean area. It’s not discrimination it’s fairness. In the pictures, notice the small silver clamp on the site post. We all have an exit date, and they do not have one. Why ? I have been here 12 days. The family (a lady) at the site said she has been here for about 21 days (same site). Guess the rules only apply to certain campers. I called the office and they said you cannot stay here more than 14 days. Here is a copy of the rule I found on the State Park website. 14 nights Length of Stay - Campgrounds During periods of high demand, the maximum length of a camping or cabin stay is 14 nights. After 14 nights, the camper must leave the park for at least three nights before returning for a new stay. Upon leaving the campground (on my 14th day) I observed that the park staff allowed the family to again, move to another campsite and not leave for 3 days as the rule states. I understand the rule says “based on demand” to allow to move, but when speaking to a park staff member and camp host, they advised they received several complaints on the family and have had to speak to them several times. So why would you allow them to stay after the 14 day period, and continue to disrupt the campgrounds and other rule abiding campers ????
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cait D. 7 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    We had a beautiful time exploring Koreshan State Park, from the gorgeous trails leading you alongside the water, and through lush tall bamboo forests, to the beautiful water ways where you are able to go boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or even a canoe. They have kayak, and canoe rentals available. Exploring the historic site was one of my favorite parts, and seeing all the old buildings, and stores, was such a cool experience. We really enjoyed ourselves and had such a great time! We went back again the next day! Highly recommend!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 karen G. 2 years ago on Google
    A MUST SEE !! In 1893, Dr. Cyrus R. Teed and the religious cult he founded,know as the Koreshans, moved to this settlement. The history and most interesting information about these people and their settlement is found here on this sprawling property. The buildings of this settlement as well as pictures, furnishings and facts from their time is available for you to see and read. It's just so interesting. I could imagine this community running while I was walking through. Their beliefs about the earth intrigued me and I'm looking to learn more about them. There is also a bamboo tree trail along the ESTERO RIVER that is breathe taking and unusual to say the least. The trail is quiet and the scenery is awesome. There are guided tours available and the fee for entering the park is $5 and up depending on vehicle and how many people Oh and you can camp there and there is also a boat ramp and playground on the other side of the property. Please visit this most amazing place...
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah L. 2 months ago on Google • 87 reviews New
    Nice history tour of the Koreshan Unity ground. Many remaining (and we'll preserved) buildings with explanatory displays. And I have to mention the very nice volonteers who make the experience of the site even better with knowledge and their smiles.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katie K. - O. 6 months ago on Google • 19 reviews
    Beautiful state park with a really cool river trail (maybe 1mile long) and amazingly preserved historic settlement. Rangers were very kind and informative, made sure I knew where the water stations were on this sweltering day which ended up really helping me out. Highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robert S. 2 years ago on Google
    Best of the world in terms of historical exhibits and park with walking trails. Many structures on the property with detailed signs explaining their history along with very friendly Park rangers. Small entry fee to get in and park your car. Farmers market on Sundays before 1:00 p.m. be careful walking through the woods as there is poison ivy.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kyle D. 10 months ago on Google
    Koreshan State Park is an excellent place for families to spend quality time in nature while enjoying the playground facilities. The nature trail is a must-visit area where you can spot various animals such as mice, lizards, tuttles, gators, and much more. However, one thing that may hinder your visit to Koreshan State Park is the ubiquitous presence of mosquitoes and other bugs. These insects can make the visit unpleasant and uncomfortable, so it's essential to take protective measures and bring bug spray. If you have an RV, you should note that there are no sewer drops at the campsite, only electric and water. Despite all the recent rain, there is still a burn ban at the park. It might be something to consider if you are planning to do some campfire cooking. All in all, Koreshan State Park is an excellent place to visit with your family if you are a nature enthusiast. While the park is heavily wooded and humid, it provides an excellent opportunity to experience Florida's natural beauty. You stayed in site 28, which is a great location to set up your camping gear. This place is worth a visit!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark N. 1 year ago on Google
    Great day park featuring a boat launch and playground for kids. This park also offers an amazing campground for those that want to take a walk in nature to the next level. The park is connected to a historic settlement which can be reached by river, road, and trail. Very clean and beautiful trails to enjoy!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 TerriJG 1 year ago on Google
    Very interesting historical state park with unusual religious cult history. Free. Self guided tour ir arrange for a guided tour which we will do next time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aaron A. 4 months ago on Google • 247 reviews
    Still an incredibly cool place to visit, it's easy to step back in time here!!! The buildings are full of the most interesting artifacts and the community as a whole is quite fascinating! A must see for all the locals who've forgotten how cool it really is!

  • 5/5 Brooke M. 5 months ago on Google • 118 reviews
    Went here to walk while waiting for my vehicle to be serviced at a dealership down the road. Nice grounds, really enjoyed the River Trail. Walking through the bamboo is so peaceful, especially with a nice breeze. We walked around the grounds and looked into some of the old preserved buildings and enjoyed the surroundings. Nice area to walk, especially along the river. Will go back again to enjoy a nice walk on the grounds when my car goes back in for service. It's a great place to pass the time.

  • 5/5 Kurt L. 2 months ago on Google • 93 reviews New
    A hidden oasis in the middle of urban sprawl. Koreshan has decent campgrounds, shaded, and mostly separated by woods. Clean bathrooms and showers. A nice wood path for walking and an interesting if not really strange history of a group of early settlers. Somewhat convenient for visiting local beaches if you can tolerate the traffic... Enjoy

  • 5/5 Lisa M. 2 months ago on Google • 89 reviews New
    I love this park! This was my second visit and I enjoyed myself just as much as the first time. It’s very interesting history about the cult that lived here and their beliefs. They planted many different trees and plants on the grounds which are beautiful to see. I love walking the river trail through all of the bamboo!

  • 5/5 Jacqueline C. 3 months ago on Google • 50 reviews New
    Fabulous history, very knowledgeable and fun volunteers, beautiful views and quiet park all make for a great park and experience. Its definitely worth making the time to check out:

  • 5/5 Donald Starr (. 1 year ago on Google
    It was awesome I was giving estimates at the park it is open. It did not get the destruction that all the other parks did from hurricane Inn it is a pretty place to go to.

  • 5/5 Kyle W. 1 year ago on Google
    One of my favorite state parks. Between the hiking trails, the historical settlement, and the estero river to kayak. There is a lot to do, great for anyone or the whole family. I believe only $5 entrance. You can also rent kayak canoes if you don't have one.

  • 4/5 Sherry F. 1 year ago on Google
    Florida has nice state parks. this was does not disappoint. it has some strange history, but history it is fun. the grounds were easy to walk and visit , the area is beautiful and has nice trails.

  • 5/5 Craig C. 2 years ago on Google
    An AMAZING Florida State Park! The Koreshan Settlement is very unique and an important part of SW Florida history! Schedule a tour, you won't be disappointed. Campsites, trails, kayak/canoe launch, restrooms are all pristine. The Volunteers and Rangers are 2nd to none helping create great memories!

  • 5/5 David Mark D. 4 months ago on Google
    Wonderful historic campgrounds, extremely well keeped up. The camp site was racked and prepared for our arrival. Highly recommend. Pets are ok, which is nice.

  • 5/5 Leah K. 2 years ago on Google
    Had a great time camping and canoeing. Campsite provides electricity and water. There is a nice walking trail, canoe and kayak rentals, playground for kids and a bathhouse where you can also do laundry. Also, the old Koreshan buildings are neat to tour and provide an interesting piece of history.

  • 5/5 Kristen T. 2 years ago on Google
    An easy, leisurely walking trail along the river. A playground is in the shade for kids to enjoy. There are historic buildings to walk through. Camping sites are available too.

  • 4/5 eric w. 2 years ago on Google
    Good park, pretty busy. Nice riverwalk trail with lots of bamboo

  • 5/5 Candela_ M. 2 years ago on Google
    A jewel of a park. Great place to camp, hike and canoe. There's also a picnic area with a playground. Campsites are nestled in lush vegetation that provides shade and privacy. Sites include water and electricity. There's two hiking trails, one borders the river and the other connects the campsites to the historical site, which has beautiful plants from all over the world. If you canoe inland, it's one of the most beautiful trails that I have seen in Florida. We saw lots of bunnies at night and an armadillo. This is a small park and it can be explored in a short period of time. There's also a bit of noise pollution, since the park is in the middle of the city. Nonetheless, this is a beautiful park worth visiting ❤.


Call (239) 992-0311 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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