Tent campsites near Christmas, Florida feature varied ecosystems typical of central Florida's low-elevation wetlands. The region sits at approximately 35 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate that brings hot, humid summers and mild winters. Camping options in this area range from walk-in sites with established facilities to remote primitive locations where campers must carry in all supplies.
What to do
Trail exploration: 2+ miles of marked paths at Little Big Econ State Forest provide opportunities for day hiking near camp. A camper noted, "You could spend an entire day just getting lost around the trails. So much more fun. Not a very difficult trial though. There are lots of little waterways so mosquitoes do get bad on extra humid days."
Fishing: Access points along multiple lakes offer chances to catch local species. At Lake Mills Park, "Several in our group caught some small fish and some turtles too. The fishing pier was nice and in a cove like area."
Wildlife observation: Diverse animal species inhabit the conservation areas. At Geneva Wilderness Area, "The trails are filled with wildlife! Gopher tortoise, raccoon, shore birds, deer and so much more. The wildflowers in the spring and fall are eye catching."
What campers like
Natural water features: Multiple lakes and rivers provide recreation opportunities. At Bissette Bay, one camper shared, "By 6pm, I had 3 different fish being fired up on my campsite - red drum, silver mullet and spotted sea trout."
Secluded camping spots: Some sites require hiking to reach more private areas. A camper at Hal Scott Preserve County Park mentioned, "The second site, about 2 miles in, has a storm shelter nearby for those sudden afternoon thunderstorms. Sites are neatly cleared with mature oak trees that provide a canopy for shade."
Overnight fishing access: Some sites allow 24-hour access to waterways. A reviewer noted about Hatbill Park, "Open Sandy, beautiful sunsets. Lots of noisy airboats, coming in after midnight. All camping is primitive, only 3 out here this weekend."
What you should know
Site reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Lake Mills Park, there are "14 sites total some closer to each other than others" and the campground is "Almost no one here, 14 sites all spread out in a single area."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many locations lack basic amenities. At East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest, one visitor explained, "Clean but not very secluded area if a busy weekend, you'll have have lots of hikers-by."
Seasonal weather considerations: Summer brings intense heat and insects. A camper warned, "In summer at nights mosquitos come out here and will eat you up no matter how much bug spray you put on!"
Varying noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby activities. At Hatbill Park, a camper noted, "The locals come here for bonfires and to run airboats all night."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Lake Mills Park offers facilities suitable for first-time campers. A visitor shared, "This is a nice place to introduce kids to camping. It's not very far removed and there is a nice bathroom and a playground. There is a walking path and nice views of lake mills."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. At Geneva Wilderness Area, "There is an Education Center: Ed Yarborough Center on the property near the group site that was open for our group and was amazing."
Activities for children: Playgrounds and structured spaces keep kids entertained. A camper at Lake Mills Park reported, "The park provided plenty of daytime entertainment for our kids; awesome playground, fishing, volleyball, etc."
Prepare for weather changes: Afternoon storms are common in Florida. At Hal Scott Preserve, "Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent campsites near Christmas don't support large RVs. A review of Lake Mills Park mentioned, "Campsites themselves don't accommodate RVs and don't have any hookups. They do have a grill and a place to hang up food, and a single small parking space."
Alternative parking arrangements: Some parks require separate vehicle parking. At Seminole Ranch Conservation Trailhead, facilities are "Very primitive. Fire ring and benches. Non potable water pump. Great for hunters or airboat lovers."
Consider smaller towed camping units: Some sites can accommodate pop-ups or small trailers. A Lake Mills Park visitor noted, "The campsite is spacious and features a picnic table on cement and an open area surrounded by trees."
