Best Camping near Bartow, FL

Bartow, FL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Bartow is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Bartow, FL. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Bartow, FL (244)

    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    1. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    128 Reviews
    372 Photos
    464 Saves

    Fort wilderness camping features 4 types of campsites accommodate everything from tents to 45-foot and longer RVs, with a maximum of 10 Guests per site. Each campsite is equipped with privacy-enhancing landscaping, water, cable television and electrical hook-ups, a picnic table and a charcoal grill. Most campsites also include a sewer hook-up, and some even permit pets.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $56 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park

    2. Hillsborough River State Park

    63 Reviews
    275 Photos
    337 Saves

    Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this Hillsborough River State Park Camping offers a refuge from city life with its seven miles of nature trails and ample places to cool off in the water. Except for occasional reenactments, the cannon and guns are now silent at Fort Foster. No longer do Seminole Indians have to fight to keep a foothold in Florida, and soldiers no longer guard a strategic river crossing. The reconstructed fort and its surroundings are now part of Hillsborough River State Park. Besides a living history lesson, visitors can kayak or canoe class II river rapids, rare in Florida, hike seven miles of nature trails and swim in an ADA accessible swimming pool. Tucked away, only a short distance from the bustling city of Tampa, camping is a popular activity at Hillsborough River State Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Highlands Hammock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Highlands Hammock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Highlands Hammock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Highlands Hammock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Highlands Hammock State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Highlands Hammock State Park

    3. Highlands Hammock State Park

    48 Reviews
    114 Photos
    189 Saves

    The family campground offers water and electric hookups, a dump station, access to restrooms with shower facilities, laundry and dishwashing areas. Currently, there is no free Wi-Fi in the campground; however, Wi-Fi is available at the Hammock Inn Concession, which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during peak season months. During the slow summer season, daily availability and hours of operation may vary for the Hammock Inn camp store. Call 863-402-0061 for details. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings. Sites vary from being open and sunny to partially or fully shaded and range in length from 20 to 50 feet. Maximum RV length = 50 feet. Three paved campsites, designated as American Disability Act sites, are near an ADA-accessible restroom. A maximum of eight people with two tents are allowed per site. RV sites are allowed to have the RV and one tent. The recreation hall, a park rental facility with a full kitchen, stage, large seating area, restrooms, barbecue grill and playground, is used for family reunions, weddings, parties, meetings and other events. Reservations may be booked through the ranger station 11 months in advance. The campground is a short walk from the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and the picnic area. The bike path, nature trails and playgrounds are within proximity and easily accessed. Ranger-guided programs and interpretive walks offered during the busy winter season are suspended during the summer.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $18 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

    4. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

    17 Reviews
    96 Photos
    94 Saves

    Escape to a Luxury RV Resort with a License to Chill. Located an hour southwest of Orlando and just outside of Lakeland, Florida, Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Auburndale is your ideal spot to enjoy theme parks, attractions, and all that Central Florida has to offer. Whether you’re looking to relax or seek adventure in the beauty of Florida, you are in the middle of it all at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins Auburndale, Central Florida. Embrace the atmosphere surrounding our tiki bar, fire pits, resort pool, entertainment stage, playground, dog parks, and putting course, or plan a day with the crew hiking, biking, or sightseeing. Create Camping Memories that Last a Lifetime. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort Auburndale, Central Florida offers 326 RV sites, including 11 Super Premium RV Sites along with 75 Cabana Cabins for those seeking the outdoor resort experience without an RV.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $74 - $343 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park

    5. Lake Kissimmee State Park

    29 Reviews
    98 Photos
    204 Saves

    LK1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Alafia River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alafia River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alafia River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alafia River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alafia River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alafia River State Park

    6. Alafia River State Park

    19 Reviews
    40 Photos
    198 Saves

    Standing out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers, who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes. Canoeing and fishing opportunities are available along the South Prong of the Alafia River with some lakes scattered throughout the park. The park also offers picnic pavilions, a playground, a full-facility campground and a full-service bike shop. Family campground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. Campers will find water and electrical hookups at each of the 30 campsites. Clean restrooms feature solar-heated showers. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground. Equestrian campers have access to 12 sites with equestrian designation and tie-outs for horses. Equestrian campers can access the barn, which is a short walk from the campground. There are 12 stables and 6 paddocks available on a first-come, first-served basis. Extra parking for trailers can be accessed near the barn area. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park

    7. Colt Creek State Park

    29 Reviews
    128 Photos
    188 Saves

    Colt Creek State Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park

    8. Lake Louisa State Park

    38 Reviews
    158 Photos
    306 Saves

    A

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $24 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Peace River
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Peace River
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Peace River
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Peace River
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Peace River
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Peace River

    9. Thousand Trails Peace River

    20 Reviews
    80 Photos
    64 Saves

    Thousand Trails Peace River RV & Camping Resort is a 75-acre RV camp in Florida nestled among the woods on the outskirts of Wauchula. The Peace River runs a half mile around the border of the preserve, offering canoeing, kayaking, fishing, fossil hunting in the river, nature trails and wildlife. Whether you prefer the water or the woods, Peace River provides the RV camping experience you desire all from a conveniently located RV camp in southwest Florida. At Thousand Trails Peace River RV Camping, our setting is ideal for guests who want to explore the surrounding local attractions. Big-city sports arenas, amusement parks and art districts are a pleasant drive away. This RV camp in Florida also touts close proximity to the well-known powder white beaches of the Gulf Coast, only a brief 45 minutes to an hour away. Naturally Beautiful RV Camp in Florida Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Peace River RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly Rock Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly Rock Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly Rock Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly Rock Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly Rock Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kelly Rock Springs Campground

    10. Kelly Rock Springs Campground

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    224 Saves

    The 255-acre Kelly Park camping was donated by Dr. Howard A. Kelly in 1927 for use as a public park, wildlife preserve and bird sanctuary. Located within the park, Rock Springs—a natural freeflowing spring—travels nine miles to the Wekiva River. The spring maintains an average flow of 26,000 gallons per minute with a constant 68 degree temperature. Enjoy swimming, hiking and picnicking during your stay. Kelly Park has 26 RV/tent sites.  Camp sites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill and water access.  All sites have electric access.  The Kelly Park entrance and dump fees are included in the per night camping charge (up to 6 campers).  Two campsites can be rented per family unit; an individual can register only for one site. - Kelly Park has 2 Group sites  Camp sites have campfire rings, picnic tables and garbage cans

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $23 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 244 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Bartow

Recent Reviews In Bartow

962 Reviews of 244 Bartow Campgrounds


  • Inanna The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Hideout and swamp are about the only truths

    Horrible for tent camping. Didn't own an RV. I'm just traveling through, and I went off of what information was listed. This place is pathetic. Not as advertised. Trash is not taken out regularly. One table on the ground, and it's not a picnic camping table. Tent campers have no showers or restroom. Freeway is very close and noisy. Campground is not really for campers. I'd stay away. This place is appearing fraudulent. Owner does not run this property accordingly. Seems like just a place to store RVs. Not for camping in tents or RVs. Stay away. There's much better camping across the state, regulated and maintained.

  • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Resort at Canopy Oaks
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Resort at Canopy Oaks

    Such a hidden gem!

    We came out for a quick getaway as this is only about an hour from home. The place was dead, but still amazing. Everything was open, and we had most of the resort to ourselves. The staff was great. Pool was fun. Food and drinks reasonable. They have lots of activities, and the kids really enjoyed the scavenger hunt. The tiki bar was such a cool setting. We can’t wait to come back when it cools a little more.

  • Patrick B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trails End Fishing Resort
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Trails End Fishing Resort

    Hot Dayz

    Spent a great weekend here fishing and relaxing. Rooms are neat and clean with AC. Grounds are well kept and the pool was definitely a plus at the end of a Hot day! I'll be back.

  • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Colt Creek State Park

    Natural gem

    We stayed in site 26, which was tucked back and fairly private. We planned on trail riding, but rain changed the plans. We didn’t get to explore much, but will be back. Nice long drive down to the sites. Electric and water were both great, and dump stations easy. Staff was extra friendly.

  • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Orlando
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Thousand Trails Orlando

    Great Cheap Option

    We stayed one night as our AC was down and we had a Saturday trip planned past this park. We stayed with our membership and booked two nights, so we could check out late on Saturday. Spots were pretty abundant, and we found one by the pool. This is a “pick your spot” when you get there kind of place. Lots of long term guests, but not surprised. Great staff and pool was nice for the kids.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    Camping at the Happiest place on earth

    Can’t beat the convenience & amenities of the Disney parks are on your itinerary. Super cost effective and direct access to magic kingdom and easy access to all the others. Sites were big, clear and clean. Amenities were wonderful. I’d stay here even if we didn’t do a Disney park. There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy. Constant ground crews, sanitation work and transportation options. Pools, restaurants, shops and fun activities going on all the time. We loved it.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Lake Louisa State Park

    Wonderfull

    • clean, naturally and quiet

    • no wlan and good mobil connection

    • restrooms and laundry are o.k.

    • rangers are super and nice

    • playground and a small beach to put your feet into water.

  • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

    Fun location for the kids

    Easy location to get to. The lots are pretty wide open with little shade, but we had a tiki, which was awesome. Pool was nice and warm. Kids loved the slide. Dog park and wash are a bonus. It was about $140 for a family of 6 to eat at the pool, but well above average food!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Campground & RV Park
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Cypress Campground & RV Park

    Wonderful Campground

    The park was clean, convenient and the staff was super friendly. Great amenities and a beautiful pool! Our site was shady, mostly level, gravel with just enough space for our toad(F150). We will definitely be staying here again when passing by.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Encore Tropical Palms
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Encore Tropical Palms

    Excellent Resort-Will definitely retun

    Cottage 5 stars- Very clean, comfortable, and spacious with huge uncovered front porch Campground 5 Stars- Nicely landscaped, manicured, and clean Amenities 5 Stars- Well maintained pool area and putt-putt, nice clubhouse Staff 5 stars- Friendly and helpful

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Ducky's Day Off RV Park
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Ducky's Day Off RV Park

    Used to be great, now bad bad bad

    This used to be such a great park when it was Ralph's. It's nothing but bad now. Feels like it's been taken over by some corporation that sits around discussing how much they can squeeze out of the elderly every month. There is no communication, no fairness, no consideration for residents. You simply pay more and more every month and then they come at you with the most ridiculous fees for things they made up (ask someone who lives here about their new "shed fee"). Horrible. I'm sad to see it go like this and I'm sure we will be selling due to the awful management/ownership they have in now. Preying on the elderly is not a good look....

  • Joy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    May. 26, 2024

    Hillsborough River State Park

    Absolutely beautiful park

    We were down for a funeral so we, unfortunately, didn’t spend any time in the park or campground. The park is absolutely gorgeous and we can’t wait to return in November for a week long stay. The roads in the campground are a little narrow so maneuvering a larger rig might take some time backing into sites but there were plenty of big rigs there so it is doable. The sites have picnic tables and a fire ring. As far as we could tell, all sites are sandy so I’m sure it would be a little messy after a rain with possible flooding. Our site was perfectly level with no side to side adjustments needed. Our loop was very shaded with gorgeous trees. The rangers were amazing and patrolled the campground on a regular basis. There is a huge pool but it was closed for renovations, opening sometime this summer. There is a small cafe with ice cream and you can rent kayaks or canoes to take a trip down a wonderfully, peaceful river. It was so clear that we could see fish swimming around. No swimming is allowed in the river because of gators but experienced paddle boarders would love the easy paddle. Lots of trails to hike as well.

    Definitely a great place to stay right outside the Tampa area. Recommend highly.

  • J H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ducky's Day Off RV Park
    May. 24, 2024

    Ducky's Day Off RV Park

    Greedy New Owners

    This place is going downhill fast! The new owners are beyond greedy. They raised the rent twice last year, management promised it wouldn't go up again for a couple years but then this year it goes up again! Now they're adding all kinds of fees every couple of months for the most outlandish things! Sheds, carports, washing machines, using anything but cash etc. 

    Do not bother with this place! They only see you as something to squeeze money from. It wasn't that way with the owners before them. They don't offer any improvements or new services to account for such a drastic rate increase or for how many fees they're adding either - it's purely for profit. Lawn care only happened a few times last winter when it's supposed to be once a week. 

    Go down the road, there's plenty of other parks way better and more fair than Ducky's!

  • Vanessa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    May. 15, 2024

    Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    Tourist-friendly with Activities galore

    Had a 2 night tent camp stay here during January. Great option for family reunions, we had my girlfriend’s 30th here, and with our rented golf cart, had no problems escorting our guests to our campsite to enjoy a camp cookout with us at our campsite. Was definitely an authentic Disney experience, with a never ending list of activities with plenty to keep kids and kids at heart busy, which we didn’t partake in since we were enjoying our campsite.

  • Vanessa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Kissimmee State Park
    May. 15, 2024

    Lake Kissimmee State Park

    Quiet and serene Central FL Camping

    We loved our tent camping experience at Lake Kissimmee. Our site was 22 in Loop 1 and we were pleasantly surprised to discover that we had our own direct path to the bathroom, which wasn’t something featured on the FL State Park booking site. On-site store was only open on specific days of the week and did not carry ice, but they did have small bundles of firewood. We look forward to booking the same spot when we come back to visit during the colder months.

  • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Apr. 28, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Very relaxing out of the way and quiet

    This place is a very quiet location. The owner of the property is extremely friendly. You can hear wild turkeys in the morning. You're far enough away from the city to get an excellent view of the sky.

  • David G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace River Campground
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Peace River Campground

    Not a typical campground

    If you are a traditional camper stay away. This place is mainly for trucks and ATV’s. There is sugar sand everywhere and my car got stuck. After they helped me get out I left.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebring Lake Lot- Lakepoint N
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Sebring Lake Lot- Lakepoint N

    New to the Dyrt!

    Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

  • Eleanor the Airstream R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Apr. 4, 2024

    MacDill AFB FamCamp

    Utilitarian

    No surprise on a military base but felt like a campground equivalent of base housing. Tight spots with full hook ups. Lots of snow birds, so getting in was a challenge. We had to show up without a reservation and take advantage of first come, first serve spots.

    Full hook up (electric/water/sewer) and cable. No wifi (so weak it didn't work) and cell coverage almost non-existent (AT&T).

    Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large.

    Good amenities on base. Gym not too far and massive.

    Make sure you arrive at the base through the gate at the end of Dale Mabry, as it's the only gate campers can come thru. And be sure to go to the far right lane, even if it's got a red X showing the lane is closed. They will open the wider lane for you. You don't want to know why I know that or how close our Airstream was to the guard shacks if you don't go in the far lane!

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

    Good time

    We had a great time. The camp sites and the whole resort area is very clean and safe. I felt comfortable with my kid running around on her scooter. They had a lot of activities for the kids during spring break. The only negative was that the pool area seemed a little small for the number of people there. Very crowded.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Mar. 22, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Quiet and secluded with lots of wildlife

    I stayed at Raphael's campground for a few days during spring turkey season. I was very impressed with how clean the grounds were and was surprised to see that they had installed 30-amp hookups for electricity and water. I was tenting so didn't take advantage of those, but they are there. The location is pretty secluded and very quiet, aside from the local wildlife that are nearby (turkey gobbles and sandhill cranes squawking), but that is what camping is all about! The other folks there were super nice and very helpful. I was very grateful for Raphael's flexibility on check out time so I could get an extra morning of hunting in. Overall, I'd highly recommend camping here and I'll be back next spring.

  • Lauren W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Colt Creek State Park
    Mar. 20, 2024

    Colt Creek State Park

    Peaceful

    Small spacious park. Restroom clean and showers, laundry $1.50 each. Firewood available to purchase. Lots of walking, biking, and hiking. Beautpark. Great camp hosts and ranger.

  • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Coleman Landing at Shady Oaks
    Mar. 19, 2024

    Coleman Landing at Shady Oaks

    Florida favorite!

    Cannot say enough great things about this special place! During the weekends it can get filled up and busy. We were there for a few days during the week and enjoyed every minute. Close to lake, great for bird watching and walks/ boating. Friendly host and fellow campers. We will definitely be returning. For the price, can’t beat it. First come first serve, recommend doing the Grape Hammock air boat tours from fish camp!



Guide to Bartow

Camping near Bartow, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: Many campgrounds are surrounded by stunning landscapes. For instance, Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground is known for its gorgeous trails and wildlife sightings. One camper mentioned, "The trails are absolutely gorgeous. Natural palms growing among tall pines."
  • Water Activities: If you enjoy water sports, Fort De Soto Campground offers kayaking and fishing opportunities. A visitor shared, "I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park often spot deer and wild turkeys. One reviewer noted, "Saw a lot of Deer, boar and turkeys around the grounds."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Hillsborough River State Park Campground said, "Restrooms and showers across from site and very clean."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Blue Spring State Park Campground mentioned, "The individual campsites give off a vibe of privacy, intimacy and solitude."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of park rangers. One reviewer at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground said, "The staff were all very helpful, and the premises were beautifully maintained."

What you should know

  • Bugs: Some campgrounds can have a bug problem, especially in warmer months. A camper at Fort De Soto Campground warned, "The bugs were so bad... it was absolutely miserable."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Highlands Hammock State Park Campground noted, "The actual campground needs some love. It’s too packed together."
  • Access to Springs: Some campgrounds are a drive away from main attractions. A camper at Rainbow Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "It is a solid hike from this campground to the spring itself."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers a variety of activities that keep kids entertained. One family shared, "There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."
  • Plan for Nature: Bring outdoor games and activities. A camper at Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground suggested, "We enjoyed walking around the park and seeing some cool wildlife."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A visitor at Myakka River State Park noted, "The park even had smiling gators."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Colt Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Spacious and open sites that are very big rig friendly."
  • Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with dump station locations. A camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground said, "Dump stations scattered throughout making disposal of trash and recyclables EZ."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Lake Louisa State Park Campground advised, "If you forget something there is a Dollar General about 20 minutes away."

Camping around Bartow, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Bartow, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Bartow, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 244 campgrounds and RV parks near Bartow, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Bartow, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bartow, FL is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 128 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bartow, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Bartow, FL.

  • What parks are near Bartow, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Bartow, FL that allow camping, notably Lake Okeechobee and Ocala National Forest.