Buddy M.
Scout
ScoutLower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Love this place
Good clean site.
Camping near Bartow, FL
268 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Central Florida's Polk County region surrounding Bartow features a mix of established RV resorts and state park campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Saddle Creek Park and Campground, located in nearby Lakeland, provides tent and RV sites with electric hookups and water access for fishing and boating. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Auburndale offers 326 sites with full hookups and resort amenities, while Wilderness Shores Ranch provides both tent and RV camping with 110 sites in a more natural setting. Hardee Lakes Park to the south offers lakeside camping on reclaimed phosphate mining land with well-maintained trails and facilities for multiple camping styles including tent, RV, and cabin options.
Reservations are essential during winter months when the region experiences an influx of seasonal visitors seeking warmer weather. Hurricane season (June through November) can affect camping plans with potential closures and flooding in low-lying areas. Summer brings high humidity, temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. As one camper noted at Hardee Lakes Park, "The campground and amenities are extremely well maintained. We had the end site on the lake that was very private." Mosquitoes can be particularly problematic during rainy periods, with several reviewers mentioning the need for substantial repellent, especially at primitive sites. Cell service is generally reliable near established campgrounds but may be limited in more remote areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities rank highly among visitor experiences in the region's campgrounds. Campers frequently report sightings of armadillos, turtles, ospreys, and occasionally alligators near water features. Sites with lake access tend to receive the highest ratings, with one visitor to Withlacoochee River Park noting, "We saw armadillos, turtles, large ospreys, and a small gator by the fishing dock." Shade availability varies significantly between campgrounds, with several reviewers mentioning limited tree cover at newer facilities. Many campgrounds feature fishing docks, hiking trails, and picnic facilities. Bartow camping options provide convenient access to both pristine natural areas and urban amenities, making this area ideal for campers who want to explore Central Florida's diverse landscapes. The proximity to both natural areas and urban conveniences makes the region popular for campers seeking a balance between wilderness experiences and access to services.
Best Campgrounds near Bartow (268)
1. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
"What it lacks in shade it makes up for with 2 nice pools, one geared toward kids with a fountain and very fun twisty slide, music, TV’s etc & the other is on the lake by a tow-ski place that’s fun"
"Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff."
from $64 - $99999 / night
Check Availability2. Cypress Campground & RV Park
"We came to Florida to escape NY in 2020, chose from a map! While here, we made good friends with other snowbirds and travelers. There is a nice pool, small playground and 2 laundry facilities."
"First we had a late arrival, and they had left us all the documents ready for us by the entrance."
3. Alafia River State Park Campground
"Widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails. Not much else to do in the area, but very nice space to chill out. The night sky is far enough away that you can really take in the stars."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
from $22 / night
Check Availability4. Hillsborough River State Park Campground
"Then exit 7 to Highway 301 north about 10 miles to the campground. The way in which the state park and campground are set up is easy too."
"This was my first time at a campground in Florida! I was surrounded by beautiful wildlife (alligators, birds, and even a wild boar). The hiking trails were perfect for a beginner or a regular hiker."
from $24 / night
Check Availability5. Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground
"If you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this campground is truly something special."
"Hike along the water on trails, off road biking, and up close viewing of the beautiful ranch animals ( steer and goats )."
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability6. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
"I love coming here even if I never step foot inside the theme parks. There plenty to do here. You can rent golf carts or bring your own. I love just driving around on the golf carts."
"Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes). Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"
from $56 - $201 / night
Check Availability7. Saddle Creek Park and Campground
"Thrift and bait shop nearby."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability8. Sanlan RV & Golf Resort
9. Edward Medard Park
"Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours. Camp sites are bit close to one another but overall amazing experience."
"Very pretty and wooded for Florida. Great to bike around and see everything. Neat to see gators. Will definitely go back."
from $24 / night
Check Availability10. Hardee Lakes Park
"There are four lakes, campsites are located on one of the bigger lakes. Like all parks some site are better than others, none are bad. We had the end site on the lake that was very private."
"I was excited to discover all these primitive wites with water are right on the lake."
from $25 - $28 / night
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Drive Time
- 20 min from Lakeland, FL
- 46 min from Tampa, FL
- 48 min from Sebring, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Bartow, FL
232 Photos of 268 Bartow Campgrounds
Nestor A.
Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground
Jacob W.
Oak Harbor RV Park
Joe
Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground
Nicole M.
Haines City MHP & RV
Jorge A. M.
No longer in business
Paul M.
Hardee Lakes Park
Jennifer T.
Alafia River State Park Campground
Amanda .
Edward Medard Park
Randal B.
Lithia Springs
Montero Santiago J.
Lake Rosalie Campground
Andrea D.
Thousand Trails Peace River
Jeanene A.
Pioneer Park
Recent Reviews near Bartow, FL
1090 Reviews of 268 Bartow Campgrounds
Steffen L.
GuideLake Louisa State Park Campground
Lake Louisa State Park
Nice state park. Plenty of lakes, but also plenty of gators at this time; hatching season. Wide open space, great roads. Not all sites have sewer hookups, it’s worth finding out which one before booking, if it is important for you. Even glamping tents and cabins are available, cabins are right next to the lake. Swimming area at Lake Louisa has a playground with swings and even a beach/swimming area, but that seems awfully dangerous, given the noises the gators make about 30 feet away. Unfortunately there is not a lot of things to do near the state park if one wants to do anything outside of camping, at least not a lot I could find, maybe you are better at that. Apparently it is very popular with bikers and triathletes, I have seen at least 10 today, using the great roads.
Stuart K.
LegendSun Outdoors Orlando ChampionsGate
Disney Convenience Without the Disney Price Tag
If you're planning a visit to Walt Disney World or any of Orlando's major attractions and prefer staying in your own RV over an expensive hotel room, Sun Outdoors Orlando Champions Gate continues to be one of the more convenient options in the area. Since my original visit, the resort has matured nicely, with its modern facilities, clean grounds and resort-style atmosphere making it an appealing basecamp for exploring Central Florida. And make no mistake about it, while this is very much an RV resort – not a nature campground – this spot succeeds by delivering comfort, convenience and easy access to everything the Orlando area has to offer.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Beautifully renovated facilities that still feel modern and well-maintained; (2) Outstanding heated swimming pool, clubhouse and spotless comfort stations remain the centerpiece of the resort; (3) Full-hookup RV sites with concrete pads make setup quick and easy; (4) Exceptional location just minutes from Walt Disney World, ChampionsGate with countless dining, shopping and entertainment options; and (5) Everyday conveniences like Publix, Aldi, CVS and numerous restaurants remain close enough that you can leave the RV parked and run errands with ease.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) The campground still feels more like an RV resort than a traditional campground, with relatively little mature landscaping or natural privacy; (2) Larger fifth wheels and motorhomes may find some sites a bit tighter than expected; (3) Tent campers will likely find the experience less appealing due to the predominance of paved surfaces and surrounding RVs; (4) Depending on your site's location, nearby road traffic can occasionally detract from the otherwise relaxing atmosphere; and (5) If you're seeking a true Florida nature experience, you'll need to venture beyond the campground to nearby lakes, conservation areas or state parks.
Happy Camping!
- HHolly B.Guide
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Something a bit magical
I know, I know, it’s not real camping. But I love it just the same. I love coming here even if I never step foot inside the theme parks. There plenty to do here. You can rent golf carts or bring your own. I love just driving around on the golf carts. They have campfires and trivia. Outside movies. The Trails End to get food at.
Horse stables. Halloween time is the best time to come. I love looking at everyone’s decorations.
Ninoshka L.ScoutDisney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Is beautiful but safety is not great.
It has a lot of activities to do with the family. Only thing I don’t like is the restrooms. Had a bad experience. Someone was recording one of my family member in the shower. The other person was standing on a seat and recording when someone goes and shower. Disney couldn’t do anything by the time we notice the person left running from the bathroom units. Did not see a face but just a hand and a iPhone with a flashlight on. Be careful. Don’t go alone to the restrooms. Bathrooms are supposed to be lock at night and need a key card to open , but Disney always have it open. If it was locked Disney could had know who enter the restroom when the incident happened.
Mark T.ScoutResort at Canopy Oaks
Dissapointing
Booked about a week ahead, at that time tgere were 147 sites available. It shows you what is available to pick from. I picked one in the low 400's...I think it was 405, because one on each side was empty. Fast forward to the day before I get an email about virtual check in. However it states I am in the mid 100's....so I call and inquire. At the time of the call there were 109 sites vacant. The girl proceeds to tell me if you dont pay a$50 lock fee. They can move me at their discretion. So I got moved....additionally, got here an hour early and had to pay$25 early check in. 109 empty spots and the pool is like a carnival cruise pool....SLAMMED! Only 2 small comfort stations. No shade to be found. We are here now, and this may well get updated for a vetter rating...or worse, who knows. But it seems like a resort that will nickel and dime you to death. And moving someone who booked, and paid in full is some shady shit...
Lorilee S.LegendLake Louisa State Park Campground
Pretty campground
Very pretty and clean campground. Bathhouse was clean as well. Loved riding our bikes and walking the trails.
Dajah B.
TravelerFind Out Farms
Beautiful and peaceful
It's very peaceful. Chickens roam free and we were able to see cows and get farm fresh eggs. 50 AMP and water connections, I saw reviews about the road being bumpy but we didn't have that experience. Everything was smooth. 10/10.
Celeste A.TravelerLake Manatee State Park Campground
Campground Stay
The bathrooms are rather hot at any time of the day, but they are clean. One of the showers doesn’t work but there is no sign posted. 30 sites for 1 bathroom/ bathhouse so showering at night may take longer than usual. The campground isn’t too shady, but the Day Use Rec Area is nice and has a small play ground. However, if you’re looking to cool off in the lake, think again. It’s very warm water and there is a caution sign about green blue algae being possibly present in the waters. Lots of squirrels and ants
Guide to Bartow
Florida's Bartow region sits at an elevation of around 125 feet in Central Florida, positioning campers in an area marked by reclaimed phosphate mining lands, natural lakes, and oak hammocks. The region's sandy soil provides well-draining campsites in most established areas, with temperature averages ranging from 50-70°F in winter to 75-95°F in summer. Wildlife corridors connect many camping areas, making animal sightings common year-round regardless of which campground you choose.
What to do
Paddle the Hillsborough River: Hillsborough River State Park provides kayak and canoe opportunities on calm waters suitable for beginners and families. "We love visiting this park. Rapids to look at. Plenty of hiking and biking. Rental canoe staff were amazing. Tons of wildlife," notes one visitor at Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
Mountain bike on reclaimed mining lands: Alafia River State Park offers challenging trails built on former phosphate mining terrain with surprising elevation changes uncommon in Florida. A visitor noted, "The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here. Pup friendly at the campsites as well."
Tube natural springs: Located about an hour north of Bartow, Kelly Rock Springs provides refreshing 67-70°F water for tubing down a natural spring run. According to one camper at Kelly Rock Springs Campground, "Fun tubing and playing in the springs and picnicking. We did an 8 mile paddle down to Wekiva Island, which was really relaxing."
What campers like
Lakefront camping sites: Hardee Lakes Park offers primitive sites directly on the water's edge with good fishing access. One camper at Hardee Lakes Park shared, "Stayed at a non-electric site right on the lake. Fire pit is great and camp hosts even recommended a local small biz that will bring you firewood."
Off-season tranquility: Winter months bring comfortable temperatures but sites remain available outside holiday periods. A visitor to Hardee Lakes noted, "We stayed in April of 2023 during the week. I think there might be 10 sites full. Verizon 3 bars."
Trail systems on former mining lands: The reclaimed phosphate mining areas provide unique trail systems not found in other Florida regions. "This is reclaimed land from an old phosphate mine. The mine was closed 20 years ago and the land was reclaimed and turned into a beautified park and campground. Lots of very nice trails around the lakes and surrounding woods. The trails are wide and hard backed," observed a camper at Hardee Lakes Park.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Mosquitoes are particularly aggressive near water features during summer months. A visitor to Alafia River State Park Campground warned, "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents. However, sites are not shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS! Probably worst mosquitoes in 30 years of camping."
Fire restrictions vary by campground: Some parks prohibit ground fires while allowing raised fire pits. A camper at Cypress Campground noted, "Only disappointment was that I did not realize there were no fire rings/pits/grills, so we had a couple of 'interesting' meals in our camper that were intended for campfire cooking."
Diverse campground management policies: County, state, and private campgrounds each have different rule enforcement levels. A Saddle Creek visitor stated, "Friendly management and neighbors. Great views, bathrooms with showers available. Water and electric hookups. No ground fires allowed but portable grills, fire pits allowed."
Tips for camping with families
Seek out splash pads and pools: Camp Margaritaville offers extensive water features for children during hot months. A family at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort reported, "We love this Margaritaville location! The staff is always friendly, they've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults."
Bring entertainment for afternoon thunderstorms: Summer visitors should plan for daily indoor activities during predictable 2-4pm thunderstorms. "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," shared a Camp Margaritaville visitor.
Consider campgrounds near attractions: Several campgrounds position families within 15-30 minutes of theme parks and attractions. A family staying at Cypress Campground & RV Park shared, "We had a BLAST at this camping retreat 3 miles from Legoland! The owners/employees were very nice and accommodating. The pool was just what we needed, the put-put was a fun activity."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Several campgrounds have tight turning radiuses that challenge longer rigs. At Disney's Fort Wilderness, an RVer observed, "Our only problem with wilderness camping. 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."
Consider concrete pads in summer: The sandy soil can become challenging for leveling during rainy season (June-September). "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)," noted a visitor at Cypress Campground.
Book equestrian sites even without horses: These sites typically offer more space and better positioning. "We stayed in an 'equestrian' site and most people didn't have horses (neither did we). While much of the park isn't shaded, most sites do seem to have at least some trees providing partial shade," reported a visitor to Hardee Lakes Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Bartow, FL?
What camping is available near Bartow, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Bartow, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 268 campgrounds and RV parks near Bartow, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Bartow, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Bartow, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bartow, FL is Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale with a 4.5-star rating from 22 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bartow, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bartow, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Bartow, FL.
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