Glamping close to Apopka, Florida offers travelers proximity to natural springs while remaining within 30 minutes of Orlando's attractions. The area sits at the headwaters of the Wekiva River system with elevations averaging 100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter months maintain mild 70°F daytime averages, making it suitable for year-round outdoor activities.
What to do
Spring swimming access: Plan early arrival. At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, visitors should arrive before 9am on weekends to avoid capacity closure. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," notes Hannah S. The springs maintain a consistent 72-degree temperature year-round.
Kayaking routes: Allow 3-4 hours minimum. The waterways connecting from the campgrounds provide excellent paddling opportunities. "We had a wonderful 3 days here," reports Jenn B. from Wekiwa Springs. "The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife!"
Wildlife spotting: Dawn and dusk viewing. The forests and waterways support diverse wildlife viewing. At Highland Park Fish Camp, visitors can observe "manatee, shorebirds, bears and more" according to Jeanene A. Multiple campgrounds offer hiking trails through pine forests where wildlife sightings are common.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: 20-30 feet between neighbors. Lake Louisa State Park Campground receives high marks for its site layout. "All of the sites seemed level, most are quite private with a fair amount of trees/foliage in between sites, have a sizable picnic table and nice fire ring with grate," says Cyndi B. The separation between sites provides more privacy than typical commercial campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Daily maintenance schedule. Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at these glamping destinations. "The bath house was very clean and modern, with spacious shower stalls and plenty of hot water," notes Cyndi B. about Lake Louisa State Park, while another visitor appreciated that "the bathrooms were well maintained and clean" at Wekiwa Springs.
Multiple recreation options: Activities for various interests. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy "glass bottom boat tours, kayaking, camping, wildlife, hiking, food, alligators, monkeys, birds, beautiful springs and river," according to Noah R. The diverse activities provide options regardless of weather conditions.
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Make reservations 6+ months in advance. The popularity of these areas means planning ahead is essential. "Really nice campground with all the amenities, showers, water, and power hookups for RVs, or in my case to charge my phone and camera. We're staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance," advises Zackari S. from Wekiwa Springs.
Airport noise: May affect sleep quality. Some campsites experience noise from nearby airports. At Lost Lake RV Resort, located just minutes from Apopka, one camper mentioned that "we're near the airport and heard a lot of planes flying by overnight. Also heard loud cars in the area."
Weather preparedness: Plan for sudden downpours. The subtropical climate brings frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!!" reports Caitlyn P. from Wekiwa Springs. Proper site selection and rain gear are essential.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Request specific sites. Families with mobility concerns should contact parks directly about accessible options. At Wekiwa Springs, one visitor shared: "being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking. My husband pushed me there in the wheelchair. Once we got there, Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!"
Budget-friendly activities: Free fishing options. Orlando/Kissimmee KOA provides amenities specifically designed for younger campers. "Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc," notes L.B. Many campgrounds offer catch-and-release fishing ponds that keep kids entertained without additional costs.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs available. Several parks offer nature programs led by rangers. "There is a wonderful river to canoe/kayak to see all sorts of animals and wildlife," mentions a Wekiwa Springs visitor. These structured activities provide learning experiences while enjoying the outdoors.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request concrete pads when available. At Thousand Trails Orlando, RVers note significant differences between sites. "The older sites could use some resurfacing," mentions Brandie B., while another visitor advises that "not many trees for shade, but it is in Florida so that is to be expected."
Maneuvering challenges: Tight turning radius in some loops. Large rigs may face difficulties at certain campgrounds. One visitor at Disney's Fort Wilderness noted: "There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your RV into the spot. There is plenty of room between your RV and your neighbor next to you but not a lot of room across from your spot."
Utility hookups: Water pressure fluctuations common. RVers should come prepared with regulators for water connections. At several campgrounds, visitors mentioned occasional utility issues. "Very nice place, close to everything. They had a pool, shuffle board and tennis courts. Nice level sites with water, sewer and 50 amp," notes Bill C. about Thousand Trails Orlando.
