Clarcona, Florida sits at an elevation of 121 feet within the central Florida region, characterized by a humid subtropical climate with year-round temperatures averaging between 60-90°F. The area features a mix of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and natural springs that create distinct camping environments across different seasons. Campgrounds near Clarcona range from highly developed resorts to more rustic options with varying levels of access to local water features.
What to do
Swimming in natural springs: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers access to natural springs with consistent 72-degree water temperatures. "The park is awesome. Really enjoyed the springs and kayaking. The camp site was nice with a pit and grill on site," notes Jayden D., who visited the park's popular swimming areas.
Boating adventures: Lake Louisa State Park Campground provides multiple lake access points for different watercraft. "The park holds many trails. We walked a few and were rewarded with peaceful treks. On one such hike, we were able to spot a bobcat in pursuit of dinner, which was a delight to see firsthand," explains Dave V., highlighting the additional wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the area's campgrounds. "We saw lots of animals. Everyone was very nice! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were," reports Caitlyn P. about her experience at Wekiwa Springs.
Park recreation facilities: Orlando/Kissimmee KOA maintains multiple recreation options within the camping area. "They have rental bikes and a pool. Bathrooms were nice and clean," according to Missi S., who found these amenities convenient during her stay.
What campers like
Early access to popular areas: Natural areas near Clarcona can reach capacity quickly, particularly during peak seasons. "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 visiting Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Spacious campsites: Thousand Trails Orlando offers sites with more room than typical commercial campgrounds. "Sites are large enough and have most have full hook ups. Not many trees for shade, but it is in Florida so that is to be expected," notes Brenda L., who appreciated the layout during her stay.
Proximity to attractions: Many campers value the strategic location between nature and entertainment venues. "Close to central florida attractions, however out in bfe. Love this park, hidden gem. Hiking, fishing, lake beach.....nice place to relax," explains Michael R. about Lake Louisa State Park Campground.
Natural environment: The less developed camping areas maintain a more authentic outdoor experience. "The park was a beautiful reprieve from the busyness of Orlando! Our site was partially shaded which was a huge bonus for the warm afternoons," says Sara S. about her experience at Wekiwa Springs.
What you should know
Weekday visits recommended: Campgrounds and day use areas experience significant crowds on weekends. "Wekiwa was an amazing place to camp and spend our weekend. The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife! However, a weekday is best to visit the spring and river," advises Jenn B.
Airport noise consideration: Some campgrounds experience overhead flight patterns. "Only complaint I have was that we're near the airport and heard a lot of planes flying by overnight. Also heard loud cars in the area," mentions Jayden D. about his otherwise enjoyable stay at Wekiwa Springs.
Variable site conditions: Sherwood Forest RV Resort has inconsistent site quality throughout the property. "Except for the few concrete pads up front, all the sites are on grass. While you can't blame the park for the weather, recently there's been a lot of rain and rigs of all sizes are up to their rims in muck," warns Geoff Y., highlighting drainage issues during wet seasons.
Advanced reservations essential: Glamping near Clarcona requires planning, particularly for premium sites. "We're staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance," suggests Zackari S. from his experience at Wekiwa Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges. "Being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking. Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water," shares Lauren W., highlighting the park's efforts toward accessibility.
Transportation options: Consider rental options for moving around larger resorts. "Rent a golf cart if you don't have one. Transportation was OK and the Tavern was very nice," recommends Donald M. about Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, where internal distances can be substantial.
Site selection for convenience: Choose sites strategically based on amenity proximity. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees," notes Lauren W. about the advantages of thoughtful site selection at Wekiwa Springs.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. "The campground is close to Disney World and has very nice amenities. Sites are nice for such a large resort campground," observes Roundabout R. about Thousand Trails Orlando's family-focused facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turning radiuses for larger rigs. "My only problem with wilderness camping. 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," explains Samantha O. from her experience at Disney's Fort Wilderness.
Seasonal site conditions: Site quality can vary dramatically with weather patterns. "All the sites seemed level, most are quite private with a fair amount of trees/foliage in between sites, have a sizable picnic table and nice fire ring with grate. We were here in February and we had no problems with bugs," shares Cyndi B. about her winter stay at Lake Louisa State Park.
Reservation timing: Upscale glamping near Clarcona requires significant advance planning. "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," notes Darcy S. about the popular Fort Wilderness Resort.
Local navigation: Campground layouts can be confusing for first-time visitors. "We were given a map at check in with not even a suggestion as to the best way to get to the site. Confusing roads with no travel direction marked made for several passes to get to the right road," warns Lori B. about her experience at Boggy Creek Resort & RV Park.
