Equestrian enthusiasts and outdoor lovers find several horse campgrounds near Casselberry, Florida within an hour's drive. Central Florida's subtropical climate keeps these campgrounds accessible year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F in winter to 90°F in summer. The region's mix of pine forests and wetlands creates varied terrain for horseback riding through diverse ecosystems.
What to do
Trail riding on preserved lands: At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, horseback riding trails wind through natural Florida landscapes. "Really nice campground with all the amenities, showers, water, and power hookups for rv's, or in my case to charge my phone and camera," notes Zackari S. The park offers "hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife" according to Jenn B.
Horse events and competitions: Clarcona Horse Park regularly hosts equestrian events throughout the year. "This place is great and the folks there that maintains it are pretty darn awesome. Quiet for sure...frog sounds in abundance," shares Sonya F. The park connects to roughly 22 miles of riding paths where riders can exercise their horses.
Swimming with equestrian adventures: Combine horseback riding with swimming at nearby parks. "The springs are great but crowded especially on weekends," notes Robyn L. about Wekiwa Springs. For less crowded water activities, Lake Louisa State Park offers multiple lakes with fishing piers and boat launches for after-ride relaxation.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Equestrian campers appreciate the room to spread out. At Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground, "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit," reports Stephanie G. Another camper notes, "This lovely state park in Central Florida gives campers the true feel of 'old Florida!' Campsites are private, separated by lots of flora."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Saw lots of animals," shares Caitlyn P. about Wekiwa Springs. At Lake Kissimmee, campers report seeing "wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther!"
Clean facilities: Horse campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, "The bathrooms and shower facilities are clean and fairly well-maintained," according to reviewers. Lake Kissimmee campers note that "like all state parks the bathrooms were spotless and rivaled those of a Marriott."
What you should know
Reservations required: Popular horse campgrounds fill quickly. "We're staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance," advises Zackari S. about Wekiwa Springs.
Seasonal crowds: Plan for busy periods at popular parks. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs. Another camper adds, "a weekday is best to visit the spring and river. On the weekend there were tons of people in the park."
Limited services: Some horse campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Sawgrass Island Preserve, "There is no water available at any of the campsites," according to Tracy L H. The preserve offers primitive camping with "a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post" plus "an open pole barn with two roomy stalls for horses."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Introduce children to equestrian culture and wildlife. "The park hosts regular equestrian events and competitions throughout the year, making it popular among horse enthusiasts," says a visitor to Clarcona Horse Park. Lake Kissimmee offers a unique historical component: "The idea of cowboys in Florida was unexpected, but added a unique element to the park," notes Sara S.
Accessible options: The Grand Oaks RV Resort provides comfortable accommodations for families with horses. "The sites are huge I can easily fit my fifth wheel camper, 2 trucks and trailer. Not to mention all the beautiful horses on the property," reports Bobby M. The resort features concrete pads and paved roads for easy access.
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised around horses and water. At Wekiwa Springs, one camper notes the park offers accommodation for those with mobility issues: "being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking... once we got there, Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites that accommodate both RVs and horse trailers. "Nice sized sites with a cement pad, picnic table, grill and trash can per site. Nice gravel drive for the RV," reports Lisa C. about Clarcona Horse Park, which is designed with horse owners in mind.
Hookup considerations: Verify what utilities are available. "Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station. The spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells," advises Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Maneuvering challenges: Some horse campgrounds have tight access roads. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees," shares Lauren W. at Wekiwa Springs, though other campgrounds may have more limited turning radius for larger rigs with horse trailers.
Ranger
