Central Florida's Astatula region sits within the Harris Chain of Lakes at an elevation of approximately 75 feet above sea level. The area experiences warm winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F, making it popular for year-round camping. Local RV campgrounds feature a mix of lakefront and wooded sites, with many offering direct water access for fishing and boating activities.
What to Do
Kayaking on Lake Harris: Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park provides direct lake access with convenient boat launch facilities. "Access to the water is amazing! The views and wildlife were great also," notes camper Tanya B. The park features covered boat slips for vessels up to 18 feet.
Golfing nearby: Encore Clerbrook offers an 18-hole course with discounted access for campers. "There are so many amenities and even a full golf course!" reports Derick B. First nine holes are complimentary with a visit to the Pro Shop, and the resort includes a driving range.
Downtown exploration: Winter Garden offers charming shops and recreation areas within biking distance. "We loved being close enough to ride our bikes to downtown Winter Garden. The kids enjoyed ice cream, the bike trail, and the splash pad, all while the parents enjoyed the brewing company and coffee shop," shares Kasey M.
What Campers Like
Concrete pad sites: Fisherman's Cove Golf and RV Resort features upgraded camping surfaces. "A nice campground with large concrete pads. Some sites are not perfectly level, but easily rectified. Hook ups are great," notes camper deb K., who appreciated the stable parking areas.
Swimming options: Wekiva Falls RV Resort offers multiple water recreation spots. "You can swim in pool or swim in lagoon. Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Wekiva River," mentions Tonia B., highlighting the diverse water activities available to guests.
Wildlife viewing: Many area campgrounds offer natural habitats for local fauna. "Plenty of deer to watch throughout the day," shares Jeremy G. about his camping experience. Several resorts maintain feeding areas where deer regularly appear.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing matters: For the best selection of sites, plan well ahead for winter stays. "We stayed a week with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic," notes Mary H. at Encore Southern Palms.
Water quality varies: Some springs have a distinctive sulfur odor. "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind," advises Calvert F. This natural mineral content is normal for Florida springs but can surprise first-time visitors.
Site conditions after rain: Several campgrounds experience drainage issues during wet weather. "While you can't blame the park for the weather, recently there's been a lot of rain and rigs of all sizes are up to their rims in muck," reports Geoff Y., noting that water can stand for several days even after sunshine returns.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Encore Lake Magic provides facilities specifically for younger campers. "We had a beautiful lake view and pool close by everyday," shares Jeanne W. The resort maintains child-friendly amenities throughout its grounds.
Nature trails: Several parks offer walking paths for family exploration. "There are beautiful walking trails, beautiful and refreshing cool springs, kayak rentals for $20," reports Megan K., highlighting affordable outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
Weekend activities: RV parks often schedule family-oriented events on weekends. "Weekends are always busy, they plan things for both adults and kids," notes Tonia B. about the organized recreation options available.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Encore Sherwood Forest offers varying site quality throughout the resort. "The best sites, in general, are all of the ones that are completely on the perimeter of Sherwood Forest RV Resort, specifically sites #1–137," advises Stuart K., who recommends requesting these locations when booking.
Electrical capacity: Several rv campgrounds near Astatula handle higher power needs. "We kept tripping the 30A breaker with AC on and a hot plate or microwave," reports Craig F., suggesting campers with multiple appliances request 50-amp service when available.
Security features: Many RV parks in the area implement security measures. "Key card needed to access so feel safe. Also guarded gate," notes Sharon H., highlighting the controlled entry systems that protect camping areas.