Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers primitive camping options close to Altamonte Springs, located in central Florida's natural spring country. The park sits at approximately 69 feet above sea level with diverse ecosystems including pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks. Campsites near the springs provide access to year-round 72°F water temperature, creating a consistent outdoor experience regardless of season.
What to do
Kayaking at Wekiwa Springs: Rent kayaks to explore crystal clear waters near the spring head. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Saw lost of animals," shares Caitlyn P. about Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Bring binoculars for spotting native Florida animals throughout the area. "This is one of the most peaceful and enlightened camps in the state, so many few things to do. i could stay forever but i get hungry and hunting is tough," notes Holma D. about their experience at Wekiwa Springs.
Hiking the North Side trails: Explore old Florida landscapes at nearby preserves with various trail options. "I love hiking on the north side of the property it looks so much like Old Florida. I like to go across the causeway and down the Bog Button Trail and over to the Hammock Trail and along the Cactus Trail," explains Tracy L H. from Sawgrass Island Preserve, who adds, "I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking."
Swimming in natural springs: Arrive early to secure your spot at popular swimming areas that fill quickly during peak times. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs.
What campers like
Accessibility features: Some parks offer specialized facilities for those with mobility challenges. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees," shares Lauren W. about Wekiwa Springs, continuing, "Once we got there, Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers at many sites. "The bathhouse was clean each time we used it. Park rangers were friendly each time we saw them," notes Lorilee S. about Lake Kissimmee State Park, who adds "Laundry is $1.25 per load."
Spacious sites: Large camping spots with privacy between neighbors. "Our site was really nice and big. All the palms around the site give it some privacy," explains Lorilee S. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Privacy: Natural vegetation provides separation between campsites. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit. Bathrooms were clean," says Stephanie G. about Lake Kissimmee.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Spring and summer weekends bring heavy visitor traffic to popular springs. "Nice sites. Trails are fun. Springs are great bug crowded especially on weekends," notes Robyn L. about Wekiwa Springs.
Urban proximity noise: Some campgrounds experience airport or highway sounds despite natural settings. "Only complaint I have was that we're near the airport and heard a lot of planes flying by overnight. Also heard loud cars in the area," mentions Jayden D. about Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Limited cell service: Remote campgrounds may lack reliable connectivity. "Be aware that we had no cell service (this actually made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work)," warns Denise about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Advance planning essential: Book early, especially for winter months when northern visitors increase demand. "We're staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance," advises Zackari S. about Wekiwa Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Multiactivity destinations: Choose parks with diverse options for different age groups. "[Wekiwa] was an amazing place to camp and spend our weekend. The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife!" reports Jenn B. about Wekiwa Springs.
Budget-friendly options: Look for affordable campsites near premium destinations. "If you choose primitive campground (10$) you will have to walk a little bit. The car parking is far away from the actual campsite. Huge plus are free showers with hot water," notes Olena R. about Bill Frederick Park.
Weather preparation: Pack for both heat and unexpected rain even during dry seasons. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!!" shares Caitlyn P. about Wekiwa Springs.
Local wildlife education: Incorporate animal spotting into your stay with ranger programs. "Tons of deer all over, all the time. The campground is definitely nice and pitch black at night. We walked over to the observation tower and could see the cow camp from there," describes Lorilee S. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Understand exactly what utilities are available at each site. "The CG is very clean, well maintained. Most of the sites are fairly well spaced, particularly for a private CG. The CG host is very friendly and helpful. The CG roads are paved and the pads are concrete," explains Ray & Terri F. about The Grand Oaks RV Resort.
Size accommodations: Check for specific sites that can handle larger rigs if needed. "Just got here June 21st and only been a couple of days but really love the property. Host is very friendly and helpful and the sites are huge I can easily fit my fifth wheel camper, 2 trucks and trailer," reports Bobby M. about The Grand Oaks RV Resort.
Internet connectivity options: Research cellular coverage before arrival if staying connected matters. "AT&T coverage was ok, with 5 bars of 5G+ service and speeds up to 5 MB/s. Parts of the CG have a few trees, particularly near the entrance where ours was, but most sites deeper in the CG are open. We did have line-of-site to the DISH satellites," details Ray & Terri F.
Gas planning: Fill up before heading to remote equestrian camping near Altamonte Springs. "Keep an eye on gas, there's one place about 6 miles from the park and town is about 15 miles away," advises Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Legend
