W. P. Franklin Lock and Dam North

Located in Alva near Fort Myers, this Army Corps of Engineers facility offers free public boat access to the Caloosahatchee River on the downstream (west) side of the dam. The launch is ideal for kayakers and canoeists heading to nearby Telegraph Creek and the scenic backcountry paddling opportunities in the area. The site includes a fishing pier and is conveniently positioned next to the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam, making it accessible from SR 80 on the south side of the river.

The Caloosahatchee is a scenic, relatively calm river suitable for paddlers of various skill levels. The lock chamber here is 56 feet wide by 400 feet long with a typical lift of 2-3 feet, serving flood control, water management, and navigation purposes. This access point works well as a starting point for exploring the river's quieter sections and nearby wildlife viewing areas, including the Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. Note that while the recreational area has day-use facilities and nearby camping options at the W.P. Franklin Campground across the river, the ramp itself is a day-use facility. For specific hours, current conditions, or lock operation details, contact the facility at 239-694-8770.

Overview
Visitors flock to W.P. Franklin Campground for its well-kept facilities and location on the Caloosahatchee River, where campers can fish, boat and take it easy in sunny southwest Florida.
The campground, about 10 miles east of Fort Myers, provides visitors with a taste of tranquil, tropical country life.
Nearby Telegraph Creek, offers exciting opportunities to canoe Florida's...

Overview
Visitors flock to W.P. Franklin Campground for its well-kept facilities and location on the Caloosahatchee River, where campers can fish, boat and take it easy in sunny southwest Florida.
The campground, about 10 miles east of Fort Myers, provides visitors with a taste of tranquil, tropical country life.
Nearby Telegraph Creek, offers exciting opportunities to canoe Florida's backcountry swamps and view wildlife.Recreation
Fishing for both salt and fresh water game fish is popular, as is boating. A unique feature of the campground is its cruiser sites, where campers sleep on their boat while enjoying the perks of the campsite facilities.Facilities
The 29 RV sites and 8 boat sites are equipped with 50 amp electric and water hookups. A boat ramp, fishing pier and trailer dump station are conveniently onsite.
Natural Features
The campground is almost completely surrounded by the Caloosahatchee River with just a narrow stretch of land connecting it to the shore.
The Caloosahatchee River is part of the 152 mile Okeechobee Waterway that spans South Florida from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.
Nearby Attractions
Visit the U.S Army Corps of Engineers visitor center across the river in the W.P. Franklin South Recreation Area.
Visit downtown Fort Myers for flea markets, grocery stores, shopping and the historic Thomas Edison and Henry Ford Winter Estates,
or spend a day exploring the sandy Gulf of Mexico beaches, about 45 minutes from the campground.

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