Koreshan State Historic Site is the former home of a unique group of late 19th century pioneers. The founder of the community, Dr. Cyrus Teed served as a surgeon in the Civil War. After the war he received much attention with his strong beliefs in the equality of men and women, celibacy and communal living. He changed his name to Koresh, which is Hebrew for Cyrus. He founded the Koreshan Unity in Chicago. As membership grew he chose Lee County as the location for his utopian dream. In 1893 he and other followers known as Koreshans began construction of the settlement that was to become a large communal city. They generated their own electricity, had a boat works, general store and other businesses. In 1961 the last 4 members of the Koreshan Unity donated the land to the state of Florida to become a park.

Today the park preserves 11 of the original buildings. Guided Ranger walks are available on Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 AM. Koreshan State Historic Site makes every attempt to improve access to services and facilities for the public. Please contact the park office for questions or assistance.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

1-75- Exit 123 Corkscrew Road, head west 2 miles, cross U.S. 41 and continue on Corkscrew Road approximately 1000 yards to entrance of park. If traveling U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail) Koreshan is located at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Corkscrew Road at Estero.

Park Fees

Admission Fees - $4.00 per vehicle for up to 8 people. Single Occupant Vehicle $3.00 Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Extra Passengers, Passengers In Vehicles With Holder of Annual Individual Entrance Permit, Members of Organized Groups - Admission Fee $1.00

Camping Fee
All Year: $22.00 per night plus tax

Guided Tours
Koreshan Settlement ranger guided tours are available: Adult - $2.00; Children - $1.00 Self guided tour booklets or audio tapes are included with admission to the park. Inquire at the ranger station.

Boat Ramp - $3.18 plus entrance fee

Dump station - $6.36 plus entrance fee

Canoe Rental - $5.30 per hour, or $26.50 for all day

Koreshan State Historic Site P.O. Box 7 Estero, Florida 33928 Phone: 239-992-0311 Fax: 239-992-1607 Park Manager: Robert Baker