It was a last-minute decision when Laurie Byrne and Roger Ferreira first arrived at Blueway RV Park in Fort Myers, Florida as snowbirds.
It was 2020, and the world had hit pause. The New York couple packed up their RV and headed south, looking for warm weather and peace of mind during a time when nothing felt certain. They found all of that, and more, at Blueway RV Park (formerly Shady Acres), which features resort amenities like swimming pools, a hot tub, mini golf, sports courts, and a busy social calendar.
What started as a temporary snowbird escape quickly grew into a new way of life. Five years later, Laurie and Roger are full-time RVers and proud members of the Blueway community. Both credit the people within the community and the weather for their decision to stay long-term.
A Fort Myers RV Resort That Feels Like Family
Snowbird season in Florida means different things to different people. For some, it’s vacation home living, sunshine, and shuffleboard. For others, it’s tailgate-style dinners, group bike rides, or days on the golf course.
At Blueway RV Park in Fort Myers, it’s all of the above.
“It’s a beautiful park, it’s affordable, and there are a lot of activities. In the winter, this place is packed.”
Laurie Byrne
Expect a weekly lineup of potluck-style dinners, cornhole tournaments, line dancing, pickleball, card games, and live entertainment, with the occasional Taco Tuesday or ice cream social thrown in. There’s always something happening.
The busy Blueway activity calendar is one of the reasons they keep coming back.
The most popular gatherings are the themed pool parties, when guests crowd the pool deck for music, dancing, games, and connection. For newcomers, it’s the easiest way to make friends.
“That’s where you meet most of the people you’ll meet in the park,” explained Laurie. “Sometimes there’s live music, DJs, and games. It just brings everyone out.”
Community Ambassadors Connecting RV Park Guests
The fun doesn’t stop with scheduled events. One of the things that makes Blueway RV Park unique is its ambassador program. Ambassadors are residents who take on leadership roles, helping guests feel at home by connecting them with others who share their interests.
“If you’re bored here, it’s your own fault. There are so many different activities to take part in.”
Roger Ferreira
Roger proudly serves as a golf ambassador. He helps match golfers within the RV community who don’t have a foursome and coordinates with Fort Myers golf courses to get the best deals. While guests cover their own costs, the effort ensures that golfers can always find a group to play with.
It’s one more way Blueway fosters connection, turning casual interests into lasting friendships.
Snowbirds in Florida Coming Together When It Matters Most
The same sense of community that fills Blueway’s activity calendar also shows up in times of need. Like many Fort Myers residents, Laurie and Roger have experienced the challenges of hurricane season.
But what truly defines Blueway is what happens after the storm.
Laurie and Roger discovered the power of the Blueway community firsthand after Hurricane Ian in 2022. They missed the storm but arrived to see the aftermath.
“We came down in December knowing what kind of chaos it was going to be,” explained Roger. “And we still had the time of our lives. Even with all the construction, the management in the park is very helpful.”
“Everybody just worked their butts off,” added Laurie, who credited Blueway staff with keeping everyone informed.
Safety and communication are a top priority. Staff at Blueway RV Park provide residents with timely updates, while resources like the Cove Communities Hurricane Tracker help keep everyone informed before, during, and after a storm. This level of preparation helps reassure newcomers and longtime residents alike.
It’s this balance of preparation and community spirit that makes Blueway more than just a place to stay. Residents know they’ll be supported through celebrations, challenges, and everything in between.
Why the Blueway RV Park Lifestyle Stands Out
That same sense of connection is part of why Laurie and Roger can’t imagine calling any other Florida RV resort “home.” Over the years, they’ve even invited friends to experience Blueway for themselves.
Some of their closest friends live at Strawberry Ridge Village east of Tampa, Florida. It’s a 55+ manufactured home community. Both StrawBerry Ridge and Blueway are owned by Cove Communities, but offer different lifestyles.
Strawberry Ridge offers the charm of a residential neighborhood. Blueway is centered around RV living with a resort-style atmosphere.
But for Roger and Laurie’s friends, who had camped their whole lives, Blueway felt like a natural fit. The couple stayed in one of Blueway’s travel trailer vacation rentals. They loved the park’s energy and the chance to be part of its snowbird season.
It’s easy to see why so many snowbirds fall in love with Blueway RV Park. Fort Myers, Florida, offers a top destination for snowbirds due to the affordable cost of living. Combine that with Blueway’s pet-friendly policies, amenities, and long-term and short-term RV sites for the ultimate snowbird destination.
Plan Your Florida Snowbird Lifestyle
Laurie and Roger’s story reflects what so many snowbirds from New York and beyond have discovered at Blueway RV Park. It’s a true community, whether you’re staying for a week, 30 days, or all winter.
For the couple, it’s their third year staying full-time.
Now fully retired, Blueway RV Park is their paradise. It’s also a lifestyle change.
“We don’t really know what day of the week it is anymore,” joked Laurie.
However, it’s not always a vacation, according to Roger. It’s a lifestyle.
“We made friends here, and the friends become our family.”
Roger Ferreira
First-time snowbirds can even explore our Florida Snowbird Guide for tips on where to spend the winter months. The Guide compares snowbird housing options, whether you’re searching for snowbird rentals in Florida or considering a flexible month rental.
And if you’re ready for more than a seasonal stay, Blueway makes it easy to turn your home away from home into your full-time home. It’s one of the most welcoming Fort Myers RV campgrounds you’ll find, with long-term rental options, affordable rates, and a resort-style setting.
Ready to plan your stay? Book your spot at Blueway RV Park and see why snowbirds keep coming back year after year. For even more inspiration, check out Visit Fort Myers and the River District to explore everything this Gulf Coast city has to offer.