Manatee Hammock Campground offers waterfront campsites with views across the Indian River toward Kennedy Space Center, providing opportunities to witness rocket launches from your campsite. This 26-acre park in Titusville has 169 sites with most offering water and electric hookups. Winter temperatures can drop to 40°F at night, requiring adequate bedding for tent campers.
What to do
Watch rocket launches: For a prime viewing location, set up at Manatee Hammock Campground where you can see Kennedy Space Center directly across the water. "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," notes Dave D.
Explore the Space Coast: From Cape Kennedy RV Resort, you can easily access Space Coast attractions within a 15-minute drive. "Nice koa right off I95. Pretty quiet considering it's right off the highway. Friendly staff. There's a guy who will wash your coach and vehicle for a nominal fee," shares Tonya B.
Fish from dedicated piers: Cast a line from the riverfront fishing dock at Manatee Hammock where wildlife viewing adds to the experience. "We watched the manatees and dolphins swim right by us on the real nice fishing dock," writes Robin M., highlighting the park's aquatic attractions.
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites: Lake Louisa State Park Campground offers unique yurt camping near Christmas, Florida with comfortable accommodations. "This stage park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing. We stayed at site #43 which has water/elec. hookup, dump station near by," says Cyndi B.
Wildlife encounters: The natural settings around Christmas provide frequent wildlife sightings. "Our site was partially shaded which was a huge bonus for the warm afternoons. The bathrooms were well maintained and clean. The park was a beautiful reprieve from the busyness of Orlando!" reports Sara S. about her Wekiwa Springs stay.
Transportation options: At Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, regular shuttles make park access convenient. "We really love camping here. The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. The bath houses are immaculate. There is bus service throughout the campground with bus and boat service to the Parks," explains Darcy S.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, campsites offer good privacy with natural barriers. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit. Bathrooms were clean. Lots of small trails to explore and tall watch tower climb for observation," notes Stephanie G.
Limited cell service: Some parks have poor connectivity, affecting work-from-campsite plans. "We had no cell service (this actually made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work)," warns Denise about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Varying noise levels: Train and airport noise affects some camping areas. "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays," mentions L O. from Manatee Hammock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Orlando/Kissimmee KOA offers family-friendly amenities including a heated pool. "Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc. Late arrival possible. Good WiFi and laundry facilities and even a gym. Very close to Disney world and to restaurants or supermarkets," reports L B.
Book early for weekends: Popular swimming areas fill quickly, especially during warm months. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," advises Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs.
Consider accessibility needs: Some parks offer accessible facilities for families with mobility challenges. "Being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking. My husband pushed me there in the wheelchair. Once we got there, Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!" shares Lauren W. about her experience at Wekiwa Springs.
Tips from RVers
Maneuverability challenges: RV sites at Disney's Fort Wilderness can be difficult to navigate. "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," cautions Samantha O.
Weather considerations: Central Florida's rainy season can impact site conditions at Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground. "We stayed middle of July for 4 days. Only saw 3 other campers the whole time. Park is super quiet and there is a ton of wildlife roaming. The spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells. Spot 9 is fully concrete. Most of the spots are fully shaded with trees," explains Corey K.
Setup assistance: Many campgrounds offer help for those new to RV camping. "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," shares Annabel F. from Manatee Hammock Park.
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