KORESHAN STATE PARK

By  Mike Miller July 9, 2025

OVERVIEW

Koreshan State Park is in Estero, Florida. It preserves the Koreshan Unity Settlement, a 19th-century utopian community.

The park spans 200 acres along the Estero River. Visitors explore 11 historic buildings and gardens. Activities include hiking, camping, and kayaking.

The park offers a mix of history and nature. It’s a unique stop near Fort Myers. 

Historic Cottage at Koreshan State ParkHistoric Cottage at Koreshan State Park

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In 1894, Dr. Cyrus Teed founded the Koreshan Unity in Estero. He led 200 followers from New York to build a “New Jerusalem.”

Teed, who called himself Koresh, believed the universe was inside a hollow Earth. The Koreshans practiced communal living and celibacy.

They built a bakery, sawmill, and printing facility. After Teed’s death in 1908, the group declined. In 1961, the last four members donated the land to Florida.

The site joined the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. 

VISITING DETAILS

The park is at 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero, Florida 33928. From I-75, take Exit 123, head west on Corkscrew Road for two miles, then cross US 41.

It's about 10 miles from Bonita Springs, 15 miles from Fort Myers, and 20 miles from Naples.

Open daily from 8 AM to sunset. The historic settlement is open 8 AM to 5 PM. Guided tours are available on certain days; call 239-992-0311 to reserve.

Self-guided tour booklets are available. Kayak rentals are off-site at Estero River Outfitters. Call ahead to see if the Park’s boat/kayak launch is open. 

Bring bug spray and water for trails. Leashed pets are allowed.  

INTERESTING FACTS

  • The Koreshans believed humans lived inside a hollow Earth sphere.  
  • Bamboo trails may have been planted with donations from Thomas Edison.  
  • The Art Hall hosts concerts on an 1885 Steinway piano.  
  • Women ran most Koreshan businesses, unusual for the 19th century.  
  • A rectilineator device was used to “prove” the hollow Earth theory.  
  • The park has over 100 bird species, including bald eagles.  
  • The last Koreshan, Hedwig Michel, is buried on-site.  
  • Exotic plants like sausage trees and red pineapples grow in the gardens. 

KORESHAN STATE PARK WEBSITE


LOCATION MAP



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