All it takes is a drive to the Brighton Trading Post to see things are hopping at the adjacent RV Resort. A sea of recreational vehicles, boats and bikes have filled the 56-pad park to capacity. 

“It’s our second year in a row that we’re full,” said Darcey Barrows, Trading Post general manager. “We have people from all over – New York, Illinois, Indiana, Alaska, Canada. They come for the quiet; they love it.”

Many are repeat customers and are already making reservations for next year. Season is from November through March and most customers stay for two to five months. The main attraction is fishing, but some also go to the casino daily.

“They come here because it’s just nice,” said Jodi King, campground supervisor.

This year is Gary Johnson and Mike Howard’s second at the RV Resort. The Portsmouth, Ohio residents like the size of the campsites and that they aren’t too close together.

“They have a lot of room,” said Johnson. “We came here to fish and there’s room to back your boat in next to your camper. We plan to come back.”

Paul and Rose Davy, from Nashville, Tennessee have children in South Florida and wanted to stay in the Okeechobee area. It’s their first time at the RV Resort and they will stay for two months.

“God led us here,” Rose said. “It’s a nice set up and they have good prices. It’s peaceful, clean and the people are friendly. I feel healthier here, I like the nature. We’ll stay for three months next year.”

Wendell Webb, of Hell, Michigan, arrived in November, will stay until March and plans to come back next year. He has friends in Fort Myers and Melbourne, so the location is perfect for him.

“It’s quiet, the people are nice and they really take care of you here,” Webb said. “I like the wildlife and the kayaking. We feel fortunate to get a nice place like this.”