Quote: A multi-use state park that was gifted to the state by a utopian community interested in science and culture. The park contains camping and picnic areas and a trail that follows the Estero River. We visited on the weekend and campers were quite noisy and having a good time. Kayak rental for traveling down the river is also available. There were many people traversing the river during our visit.

On the other end of the park, the buildings constructed by the community are retained with all their furnishings and gardens. We quite enjoyed our walk along the river and through the gardens. It was quite peaceful and we saw some wildlife, although the birds were mostly hidden in the brush. The local volunteer was very helpful and pointed out various tree types and the gopher tortoises. The latter was fun to see even if they didn't move very fast.


The park is not devoted to promoting the religious beliefs of the former community. Rather, it preserves an area with native ecology. The camping area is really well done, and the playground very popular with the youngsters. For wildlife viewers, I'd recommend a mid-week visit. A day use fee is required.
From journals Week at Lover's Key, Ft. Meyer's Beach, Florida