Equestrian facilities in Bartow, Florida provide campers with access to miles of trails on protected natural lands. The region's flat terrain and sandy soil create ideal conditions for horseback riding throughout most of the year. With average winter temperatures in the 70s and summer highs in the 90s, this area offers extended camping seasons compared to northern destinations.
What to do
Fossil hunting along Peace River: Peace River Campground offers exceptional fossil hunting opportunities where you can search for shark teeth and other ancient remains. "This is a great place to find Shark teeth and other fossils. I once had to abandon my Tilapia as the alligator appeared to want it more than me!" reports Paula C. The camp store sells all necessary fossil hunting gear.
Wildlife observation on trails: At Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground, multiple trails showcase Florida's diverse ecosystems. "Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther! While sitting in our screen gazebo, I was awed by the passing of a male panther about 25 yards from our campsite," shares Barbara J. The observation tower provides panoramic views across the park's habitats.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Alafia River State Park Campground features dedicated mountain biking trails with different difficulty levels. A visitor notes, "I was probably the only hiker at this park and there were a ton of mountain bikers. I loved that they had a ton of different trails to choose from, some just hiking or biking, and some mixed ones." The trails remain well-maintained year-round with regular updates to features.
What campers like
Private, spacious campsites: Lake Kissimmee State Park offers secluded sites that provide privacy between neighbors. "Like all Florida State Parks, they are all a little different and have one attribute in particular that makes them special. For me this was the camp sites that were both spacious and private," explains Perry J. Sites on the inside of the loop tend to offer more seclusion.
Well-maintained bathrooms and facilities: Colt Creek State Park Campground earns praise for its cleanliness standards. "They did a fantastic job in all area's of their new campground. So much to do and it was so quiet and clean," notes Rick W. The park offers "Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks," according to SanDal B., with accessible options for campers with mobility needs.
Waterfront camping options: Hardee Lakes Park provides sites directly adjacent to the water. One camper shares their experience: "I was excited to discover all these primitive sites with water are right on the lake." Joshua W. adds, "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."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many equestrian campgrounds near Bartow have spotty connectivity. At Lake Kissimmee, "We had no cell service (this actually made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work)," reports Denise. Bring offline maps and entertainment if staying multiple days.
Seasonal pest considerations: Summer months bring increased mosquito activity at several parks. At Alafia River, one camper noted, "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."
Alcohol policies vary by park: Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract allows alcohol, while Hardee Lakes Park prohibits it. One camper appreciated this rule at Hardee Lakes: "There's no alcohol allowed which is a double edged sword, but I welcomed this rule as there always seems to be groups partying at public campsites. Not here." Check park policies before packing beverages.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options beyond horseback riding: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers multiple family activities. "We went to the rodeo on Saturday night, did a swamp buggy ride, skeet shooting, petting zoo and rode a mechanical bull... and there was still more we could have done," explains Tina S. The weekend rodeo gives children opportunities to participate in age-appropriate events.
Lakes with swimming access: Lake Louisa State Park Campground features designated swimming areas safe for children. "This state park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing," reports Cyndi B. The park's multiple lake access points allow for varied water activities suitable for different age groups.
Wildlife education opportunities: Colt Creek provides natural encounters for young visitors. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," shares Barbara A. The park's newer facilities include wide trails accessible for strollers and younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: When booking at Alafia River State Park, request sites with tree coverage. According to AJ G., "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents." However, the lack of shade at some sites can make summer camping uncomfortable without additional cooling methods.
Navigating tight camping loops: At Disney's Fort Wilderness, maneuvering larger RVs requires planning. A visitor notes, "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. We have a 27' rv that is 33' from top to top. Holy moly did it take a lot to get this into our spot."
Utility hookup variations: Hardee Lakes Park offers water and electric but no sewer connections at RV sites. One camper shared their solution: "I use a quiet run generator and bring in 50 gallons of fresh water for weekend stays." Plan accordingly for longer stays by checking dump station availability and water conservation strategies.
