S
Sheri T.
Scout
ScoutFishermans cove rv resort
Relaxing
My husband and I love spending time here and overlooking the water, the sunsets and taking our boat out spending time with our family ,everyone there is super nice and friendly 😊
Camping near Christmas, FL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Christmas, Florida provides several camping options within a concentrated area, balancing proximity to natural attractions with access to urban amenities. Christmas RV Park offers full hookup sites for tent and RV camping, while nearby East Camp in Little Big Econ State Forest provides more primitive camping experiences with hiking trails and water access. The region sits strategically between Orlando and the Atlantic coast, making it a convenient base for exploring both Ocala National Forest to the north and the Kennedy Space Center along the coast.
The subtropical climate creates year-round camping opportunities, though summer brings high humidity and afternoon thunderstorms from June through September. Most developed campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during winter months when snowbirds migrate south. As one visitor noted, "Went in December; the residence had golf cart Christmas parade, went to nearby Fort Christmas. Very nice and relaxing." Access roads throughout the area are generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles, including larger RVs. Cell service is reliable near Christmas and throughout most of the region, diminishing only in the more remote sections of nearby state forests.
Campers consistently mention the region's unique combination of natural settings with reasonable proximity to attractions. The nearby lake access points receive favorable reviews, particularly at sites like Moss Park Campground with its 4.4-star rating and waterfront location. Wildlife observation opportunities attract nature enthusiasts, with several visitors highlighting bird watching and fishing access as primary reasons for selecting campgrounds in this area. While some campgrounds like Wekiwa Springs State Park can become crowded during peak seasons, others maintain a quieter atmosphere. A camper described their experience at Christmas RV Park as offering "nice, helpful staff" and mentioned enjoying local attractions. The area's mixed-use campgrounds accommodate various camping styles, from tent-only wilderness sites to full-service RV resorts with amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, and recreation halls.
Best Campgrounds near Christmas (203)
1. Manatee Hammock Campground
"We are going back at Christmas time."
"The downside it has is only loud noises at night from the highway racers or train that goes about 7 to 9 times per night and not having a playground for the kids but they have a pier that you can walk"
from $28 - $39 / night
Check Availability2. Moss Park Campground
"It was tucked back and was private with all the trees and for the most part fairly leveled. Cute little fire pit in the back surrounded by trees and grass. The bathrooms were very clean."
"* Moss Park in Orlando Florida is a great camp ground for first timers. It has all Amenities. Bathroom, showers, large wash sink."
3. Lake Mills Park
"As a camper that often camps alone, I loved that the park gate closes and locks at night (with a code for campers to exit and enter) and the campground itself has a gate that is always locked as do the"
"There is a centrally located bathroom and shower, with a convenient large exterior sink. The park provided plenty of daytime entertainment for our kids; awesome playground, fishing, volleyball, etc."
4. Cape Kennedy RV Resort
"Campers next to us pulled in after dark and stayed up partying til after 1am. Overall good camp ground- older facilities but they were clean."
"Close to I-95 and 15 miles Kennedy Space Center. Clean facilities and courteous management. very nice level concrete pull throug sites"
from $77 / night
Check Availability5. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
"We went at Christmas time and everyone’s campsite was all decorated with blow up and Disney and festive Christmas lights. We don’t have any children but still felt the magic of it."
"Also, we went right before Christmas, so everyone who regularly comes at this time of year, had over the top decorations in their camping areas. It was so fun and the family wants to come back!"
from $56 - $201 / night
Check Availability6. East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest
"It is close by, has numerous trail heads, and offers a wide variety of outdoor activity activities."
"You could spend an entire day just getting lost around the trails. So much fun. Not a very difficult trial though. There are lots of little waterways so mosquitoes do get bad on extra humid days."
7. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground
"Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."
"We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."
from $24 / night
Check Availability8. Christmas RV Park
"Rolling into Christmas RV Park felt a little like stepping into a snow globe flipped upside down in the middle of Florida, with a giant Santa Claus welcoming us at the entrance and instantly setting the"
"Went in December the residence had golf cart Christmas parade, went to nearby Fort Christmas. Very nice and relaxing."
9. Hal Scott Preserve County Park
"Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months. The second site, about 2 miles in, has a storm shelter nearby for those sudden afternoon thunderstorms."
"It's a long walk to a primitive site, but totally worth it. There's no real way of knowing if the sites are already taken, so be prepared for that."
10. Seasons In The Sun RV Resort
"Pulling into Seasons In The Sun RV Resort just off I95 in Mims felt like exhaling after a long drive, with wide internal roads, neatly kept grounds and that unmistakable Florida sunshine filtering through"
from $65 / night
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Drive Time
- 29 min from Orlando, FL
- 43 min from Deltona, FL
- 1 hr 1 min from Wildwood, FL
- 1 hr 7 min from Sebastian, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Christmas, FL
199 Photos of 203 Christmas Campgrounds
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Recent Reviews near Christmas, FL
1073 Reviews of 203 Christmas Campgrounds
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!
C.J. C.
GuideManatee Hammock Campground
Busy Park on the Indian River
Some campsites are close but the nice dog park and the location near Kennedy Space Center made me not mind so much. Great place to watch launches. Staff is friendly and park facilities are well looked after. The tent sites are on grass but close enough to the river to get cooling breezes in hotter months.
- 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.
Madison M.GuideManatee Hammock Campground
Quiet, spaced out sites, nice dock on the water
The campsite is clean and friendly. The spaces between sites is nice with trees! Great dock on the water to watch dolphins! Nice big dog park too!
- MMorris R.
TravelerCamp Kennedy RV Resort
It’s very family and pet friendly! Clean!
The only reason I gave it 4 stars was for lack of security. It’s not a gated RV park. Everything else is wonderful. Very friendly and accommodating staff. Love the trees and concrete drive thru spaces! Large spaces for your car and bikes. For the fur babies they have lots of disposable spots with bags for clean up. Nice size pool shaded by the trees in the evening from the West Sun. This is our first stay here and it’s been extremely great and quiet. Much more peaceful than we initially thought.
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.
Eric K.GuideLake Dorr
East side DISPERSED CAMPING
Reading the reviews, people are confused. The east side of Lake Dorr is DISPERSED CAMPING. This dispersed camping area within Ocala National Forest does NOT provide water hookups, restrooms, or picnic tables and does NOT have standard amenities like trash service and campfire permissions.There are two Lake Dorr camping areas. The west side of Lake Dorr is called Lake Dorr Campground. The east side of Lake Dorr is Ocala National Forest Lake Dorr DISPERSED CAMPING. There are NO amenities here. There is soft sand ares due to the ATV use. Spent 4 nights here with no problems.
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.
Guide to Christmas
Camping near Christmas, Florida offers varied terrain with several protected natural areas within short driving distance. The region's elevation ranges from 50-75 feet above sea level with sandy soil supporting oak hammocks and pine flatwoods. During winter months (November-February), temperatures typically range from 50°F to 70°F with lower humidity, creating favorable conditions for tent and RV camping.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along waterways: East Camp in Little Big Econ State Forest provides access to the Econlockhatchee River with abundant bird species. "Little Big Econ is a very nice place to camp over the weekend. It has several primitive camping spots which are pretty private. The trails are well kept, and even when flooded there are easy back trails to take," notes Alina R.
Rocket launches at nearby space centers: Several campgrounds offer views of rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center. Dave D. from Manatee Hammock Campground mentions, "This is a nice campground that's located right on the intercoastal waterway right across from Kennedy Space Center. We saw two rocket launches while here."
Trail hiking through oak hammocks: Hal Scott Preserve County Park offers hiking trails through mature oak hammocks. "Sites are neatly cleared with mature oak trees that provide a canopy for shade. Picnic tables, prep table, & a well pump for water (not for drinking) are welcomed amenities. Trails are well marked," reports Jamie C.
What campers like
Waterfront views and fishing access: Many campers mention enjoying the waterfront locations. At Moss Park Campground, Carol B. shares, "This is a 54 site campground with hook ups at each site, fire ring, and picnic table. The trees provide a good amount of privacy from adjacent campers... Water on three sides, gates that close and lock from 6pm to 8 am (Nov-March)."
Proximity to attractions with natural settings: Campgrounds around Christmas balance access to attractions with natural surroundings. Doug S. appreciates that Cape Kennedy RV Resort has "a woodsy feel but it's right off a main road. Really close to the Space Center and easy access to SR528 and about an hour from the theme parks."
Wildlife encounters: The region supports diverse wildlife visible from campsites. At Lake Mills Park, a camper notes, "We love this campground! We have camped here many times and also just have visited their awesome park and pavilions. The campsites are nice, we had our favorite one. It was big and secluded so we had privacy."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds impact experiences: During peak seasons, especially winter, advance reservations become crucial. At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, Hannah S. advises, "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity."
Transportation noise affects some sites: Proximity to roads, railways, or airports can create noise at several campgrounds. At Lake Mills Park, Jeff A. observed, "Traffic can be clearly heard on the main streets that border the campground. Also, there is an adjacent country bar, or 'honky-tonk' if you will with the sound system that was set up we could clearly hear everything."
Water levels fluctuate seasonally: Trail conditions and water access points change with rainfall patterns. A camper at Little Big Econ State Forest cautions, "Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months. The second site, about 2 miles in, has a storm shelter nearby for those sudden afternoon thunderstorms."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options for first-timers: Christmas RV Park provides full hookups ideal for families new to camping. Luis V. shares his experience, "Friendly staff and very attentive. Let you pick any available site and will make sure that you are setup ok. Next day I received a visit from management to check up on me."
Playground access for younger children: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers extensive family amenities beyond standard campgrounds. As Samantha O. explains, "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."
Educational opportunities at historical sites: The region contains several historical sites including Fort Christmas Historical Park. A short drive from most campgrounds, these locations provide learning experiences alongside camping. At Lake Mills Park, Stephanie C. mentions it's "Great for first timers, quick get away, or even an extended stay."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters significantly: At Cape Kennedy RV Resort, Mark S. notes the importance of site selection: "This campground has a split personality. The west side has nice wide concrete sites, the east side is on dirt and gravel and not so nice. When I made my reservation I missed the pick your site($30 add on?), but given the difference between the two sides, it would have been worth it."
Tight navigation in some parks: Many older campgrounds have narrow access roads challenging for larger rigs. Jorge F. from Manatee Hammock Campground explains, "26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade; beautiful water views from several campsites."
Full hookup availability varies: While most RV parks offer full hookups, amenities differ significantly. Annabel F. reports about Manatee Hammock Campground, "We booked last minute in January for an overnight stay with a 25ft RV. They were able to accommodate us. Majority of guests are here for long term. They all made us newbies feel very welcome. Paid 55$ for full hook-up. Poor wifi reception."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Christmas, FL?
What camping is available near Christmas, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Christmas, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 203 campgrounds and RV parks near Christmas, FL and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Christmas, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Christmas, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Christmas, FL is Manatee Hammock Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 40 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Christmas, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Christmas, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Christmas, FL.
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