Collier-Seminole State Park near Naples is a Beautiful Wilderness Area

Collier-Seminole State Park, sixteen miles south of Naples, Florida, is one of more than 150 designated state parks located throughout the Sunshine State. Established in 1947, Collier-Seminole is named in honor of two people who were instrumental in creating the history of this portion of southwest Florida. First, the Seminole Indian tribe, which has existed in the Naples area for centuries (with many members remaining today), has left an indelible mark on the area and its culture and is duly honored in the name of the park. Secondly, Baron Collier, a wealthy Florida developer and advertising entrepreneur of the early 20th century, was integral in the development of Rt. 41, the Tamiami Trail, and when it was time to name the park, officials saw fit to honor him. Collier's funds helped finance the road and created new ease of travel between the isolated Everglades region and vibrant Miami. Visitors to the park can view a historic Walking Dredge there, built in 1924 and used to build the Tamiami Trail.

The original plans for the area that is now Collier-Seminole State Park was for a national park that would pay homage to Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee. Collier wished to name it Lincoln-Lee Park, but his plans did not materialize. Instead, the state has managed the land since the mid 1940s.

Today, the 7,271-acre park is lauded both for its natural beauty and its rich history. The park covers one of three original stands of royal palm trees in Florida, combined with mangrove forest, which is typical of the Everglades region. Geologically, it also overlaps the southwest Florida mangrove swamp with the southern edge of the Big Cypress Swamp. This results in a meeting of salt water and fresh water and of two climate zones, temperate and tropical. The interesting combination of the two results in a plethora of different species of flora and fauna.

Nature lovers can explore the park via a 13.6-mile canoe trail that flows down the Black Water River, either on their own or via a guided canoe tour available during the winter months. A boat ramp also accommodates larger vessels for a trip down the Black Water to the Gulf of Mexico. Fishing can be enjoyed on the river or the Gulf.

For those who prefer to stay on land, a 6.5-mile hiking trail winds through the cypress and gives visitors a close up look at vegetation. A smaller boardwalk trail, which is handicapped accessible, overlooks the salt marsh and includes interpretive signs. A 3.5-mile off-road biking trail is also available and winds through hammock, marsh, and pine flatwood.

Two campgrounds are located at Collier-Seminole States. One accommodates RVs of all sizes and includes 101 spaces. The other is more suitable for pop-up trailers, tents, and vans. They are full-facility campgrounds with hot and cold showers, laundry facilities, and picnic areas with grills. Reservations are suggested. Primitive camping areas are also available on a first-come basis.