Camping cabins near Bartow, Florida are situated within central Florida's lowland region, where the elevation averages just 115 feet above sea level. The subtropical climate produces warm winters with average temperatures of 60-75°F from November through February, making winter months the peak season for cabin rentals. During summer months, cabin rentals often provide welcome relief from afternoon thunderstorms that typically occur from June through September.
What to do
Biking trails access: The Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale provides convenient access to regional biking opportunities. "Very close to a long biking trail & there's a gas station near the entrance," notes Amanda W. The Auburndale bike trail, stretching 29 miles, begins just outside the resort entrance.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes surround cabin rental locations near Bartow. At Hardee Lakes Park, primitive cabin sites include water access and lakefront placement. "We stayed in a primitive site(p14) with water. I was excited to discover all these primitive sites with water are right on the lake," reports Mack Daddy Van L.
Wildlife observation: The wetland ecosystem supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "There's an eagle preserve by the lake," notes Amanda W. about Camp Margaritaville. Alligators are commonly spotted along riverbanks at several locations. Joshua W. mentioned Hardee Lakes Park offers "trail systems from dirt paths to boardwalks to cut straight through the woods" for wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Hillsborough River State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," says Lorilee S. Many cabin locations prioritize cleanliness in communal areas.
Recreation options: Swimming pools remain a popular amenity at several resorts with cabin rentals. "They've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults," shares Danielle M. about Camp Margaritaville. Camp activities vary by location and season.
Spacious layouts: Newer cabin rental facilities prioritize site spacing. At Peace River Oaks, "All of the sites are spacious with large cement pads. The overall feel is laid back and quiet," according to Brad P. Site spacing varies considerably between state park and private resort cabins.
What you should know
Reservation systems: During winter months (November-March), advance reservations are essential. Thousand Trails Peace River uses an unusual lottery system for cabin assignments. One camper reports, "Every day about 1pm you go sign up for the lottery system to shuffle your RV to a sewer site if you're lucky enough to get it. They failed to tell us you have to show up daily."
Cabin types: Options range from basic rustic cabins to fully equipped units. While most cabin rentals include electricity and beds, specific amenities vary widely. At Peace River Oaks, "They have glamping tents that are very cool," notes Brad P., providing an alternative to traditional cabins.
Noise considerations: Proximity to entertainment areas affects noise levels. At Camp Margaritaville, one camper reported, "Our site was not good for us. We were in 392, which is right behind the dog run and the amenities area. We don't own a dog and we were awakened by a few dog barks and a lot of owners playing with their dogs."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment planning: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers family-oriented programming. "The sing along was fun. Chip and Dale walk around to everyone. They ask that you don't leave your spot and they will come to you and really they do. They stopped at every spot to take pictures," reports Samantha O.
Pool access planning: Several resorts feature pools but can become crowded. At Camp Margaritaville, one visitor noted, "The only negative was that the pool area seemed a little small for the number of people there. Very crowded." Plan swimming activities for off-peak hours when possible.
Transportation considerations: Within larger resorts, transportation between amenities requires planning. At Disney's Fort Wilderness, "Rent a golf cart if you don't have one. Transportation was OK and the Tavern was very nice," suggests Donald M. Golf cart rentals typically cost $50-80 per day and require advance reservation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Oak Hammock Resort offers varied site locations. "I stayed by the pond where it was quiet but you might encounter a water puppy," mentions Teresa H. When converting from RV to cabin rentals, request detailed site maps to understand proximity to amenities and noise sources.
Supply planning: Most cabin locations require guests bring personal supplies. Joshua W. shares about Hardee Lakes Park, "Camp hosts even recommended a local small biz that will bring you firewood." Local delivery services exist for essential supplies to cabin sites.
Weather preparation: Central Florida experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. "When we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," notes Lorilee S. about Hillsborough River State Park, "our site did not flood." Inquire about drainage conditions for specific cabin sites when booking during rainy season.