The Koreshan Unity was founded by Cyrus Teed, who claimed to receive a divine revelation that the universe exists on the inside of a hollow earth.
The community attempted to establish a 'New Jerusalem' in Estero, aiming for a population of 10 million followers that never materialized.
The park grounds contain a collection of non-native exotic plants, including a giant bamboo grove and a Baobab tree, introduced by the original settlers.
The Koreshans printed their own currency and operated a printing press that published their cosmic theories.
The community operated a hydroelectric plant on the Estero River, an advanced technological feat for the region during the late 1890s.
At its height, the Koreshan Unity operated various industries including a machine shop, bakery, and boat works.
The settlement followed a celibate lifestyle, which contributed to the eventual decline of the community's population.
Members of the Koreshan Unity were scientifically active, and their astronomical observations were often used to defend their hollow-earth theory.
Koreshan State Park preserves the historic 19th-century settlement of the Koreshan Unity, a utopian community that believed the earth existed within a hollow sphere. The site features 11 restored historic structures dating from the late 1800s to early 1900s, including the Art Hall and the Planetary Court. Visitors can explore the grounds along the Estero River, which is accessible for canoeing and kayaking. The park offers shaded picnic areas and trails that traverse native Florida ecosystems, including scrub and pine flatwoods. A campground with full hookups is available for overnight stays. Wildlife viewing opportunities include gopher tortoises, white-tailed deer, and various wading bird species. The park serves as a hub for local botanical study due to the extensive collection of exotic plants introduced by the Koreshans.
The restored historic Bamboo Landing area offers the most distinct tropical architecture and foliage shots.
Bring insect repellent, as the riverside location can be prone to mosquitoes.
Check the park website for scheduled guided walking tours of the historic settlement to learn about the community's unique social experiments.
Launch your canoe early in the day to navigate the Estero River before the afternoon sun intensifies.
Do not attempt to paddle the Estero River without checking current water levels, as they can fluctuate significantly.
Historic structures are protected; do not climb on or touch the exterior walls of the 19th-century buildings.
