Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, Florida
December 18-20, 2010
We travelled south into the Florida Keys but discovered that many camping facilities were completely full with "snow birds" who come every year to escape the winter cold. We decided to bypass the Keys and instead, make our way to Naples and the Florida everglades. We stopped at a wonderful park called the Collier Seminole State Park which lies partly within the great mangrove swamp of southern Florida which is one of the largest in the world.
Our Accommodations - Collier Seminole State Park Campground
We stayed at the Collier Seminole State Park campground which is situated in the everglades swamp. It was a nice campground that was quiet and serene.
Floating the State Park River
We rented a canoe from our campground and floated the river on a warm sunny day.
Airboat Ride In The Everglades
Just down the road from our campground was an outfitter offering airboat rides on the swampy everglades. Before we boarded, we got to hold a baby alligator that was about 3 years old but felt like pure muscle mass and so powerful.
Photo's of our Airboat Ride
Experienced guides offer tips to ensure you spot alligators and other wildlife as you life off and soar over the grass and wetlands of the swampy everglades. The boats use airplane propellers so its a noisy experience but we did see many varities of birds, alligators and other wild life. Definately worth doing.