5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
State parks and wilderness areas surrounding Flamingo, Florida offer a variety of primitive tent camping experiences. Hal Scott Preserve County Park features three tent campsites, with two requiring a hike of approximately two miles from the parking area. Lake Mills Park provides 14 tent-only sites with basic amenities, while Little Big Econ State Forest offers more secluded backcountry tent camping along the Econlockhatchee River. Geneva Wilderness Area maintains a small hike-in primitive campsite on the far side of the lake from its nature center, accommodating approximately five campers comfortably.
Most tent campgrounds in the region feature dirt or sand surfaces with minimal grading. Fire rings are common at established sites, though some primitive areas lack basic amenities. At Hal Scott Preserve, campers should expect water-covered trails during summer months, with ankle-deep water not uncommon. The second site includes a storm shelter for afternoon thunderstorms. Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites require advance reservations and may have flooding issues, necessitating waterproof hiking boots. Insect repellent is essential throughout the region, particularly during spring and early summer when yellow flies can be problematic.
In early fall, many tent-only sites offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. One camper at Seminole State Forest noted that despite needing to make multiple trips to carry gear the quarter-mile from parking to the campsite, the privacy and lack of neighbors made the effort worthwhile. At Foster Bridge Primitive Site in Green Swamp West, a visitor reported that "insect repellent is a must have" but praised the "places for tents and hammocks using tree safe straps." Lake Mills Park campers mentioned some road noise but appreciated the spacious sites surrounded by trees. Mature oak trees provide welcome shade at many locations, with Hal Scott Preserve offering "neatly cleared sites with mature oak trees that provide a canopy for shade."
"This was a special use event so we used the big open field areas in the day use part of the park near the lake. This was a very, very good and well run event on everyone's part. "
"The good: This is a beautiful clean campground attached to a nice community park. 14 sites total some closer to each other than others, but we had no neighbors."
"Nice level sites I've been there a few times Nice facilities and pool fun to bike around in"
"Hike out to this beautiful sight under the stars and dream of bygone eras...We started at the Barr Street Trailhead and hiked in to LE 39 where we found 2 fire rings."
"I definitely wouldn't recommend recommend getting there at night to set up, but otherwise it's fairly easy to get around."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when available"The camp spaces are on a large field and each has its own fire ring. It has a very cozy communal vibe. Saturday nights they host a large fire down by the boat launch for everyone to join."
"To begin with, there’s nearly 1,000 crystal clear springs throughout the state of Florida, so when you find one that’s pretty spectacular, it’s like finding a needle in a haystack."
from $30 / night
"The hiking near by is great and plenty of trails near by. Also a spot to go paddling but we didn’t this trip. We will deff be back!"
"It was great getting to learn about the north shore ranch and the abundance of trails in the area for exploring! Stop by and leave a review with some pictures of your favorite views!"
from $20 - $35 / night
"There is one small hike in to primitive campsite on the far side of the lake from the nature center - on less than 2 mile loop trail. Site will hold approximately 5 guests comfortably."
"There were restrooms at the pavilion but no showers. The pavilion area had lights and a grill with a cooking area just off to the side. "
"Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring."
"We packed light but not that light because we like to be comfortable; it took my BF and me about 3 trips each to get everything we needed to the site, including firewood, our 4 person tent, air mattress"
from $9 - $18 / night
"All camping is primitive, only 3 out here this weekend. Permit but no charge, county Park."
from $15 - $30 / night
ScoutTim and Leisha were the best! Great campsite close to Disney is what we wanted.. clean and well organized. They make you feel at home and they even invited us to dinner at the pool and provided all the food. I will definitely be going back when I’m in town. They loved our kiddos too!
TravelerIts a great campground for longterm and short term alike, my wife and myself live out of pull behind full time and have been here since August. This campground is conviently located roughly 45 minutes from downtown Orlando and 30 minutes from Cocoa Beach. They have several buildings available for use to campers with kitchens inside some of the buildings, they have a beautiful pool open year round, a pool table nicely located right beside part of the Orlando wetland walking trails. Plus really who doesn't want to reconnect with their inner child and stay in a small little town like Christmas where the post office is decorated year round, there's a nativity scene up year round and parts of the park itself keeps some lights up year round.
LegendPulling into Cape Kennedy RV Resort just off I-95 in Mims felt like stepping into a haven of wide skies and gentle breezes, where the lush shade trees and relaxed layout of this RV park immediately invited us to exhale and settle into a slower pace after a long day on the road. The RV sites are roomy and shaded, giving you that sense of being tucked into nature even though you’re just minutes from the highway, and the clean, well-maintained facilities make set-up feel effortless. One of my favorite moments here was watching the boys gather sticks for a small, post-dinner campfire while fireflies blinked around the grassy edge of our site and the river reflected the last warm colors of sunset, laughter and simple chatter weaving into a perfect end-of-day memory. The best campsites are the ones located on the western side of the property where you can wake up to the chirping of birds, covered by solid shade while sipping your morning coffee, which makes lingering here feel like a little slice of calm amidst the journey. We’d recommend Cape Kennedy RV Resort for families who appreciate EZ interstate access, shady, beautifully spaced sites, and a blend of nature and convenience.
LegendArriving at Indian River RV Park just off US-1 in Titusville feels calm and unhurried, with a palm-lined setting near the Indian River that offers an EZ pull-in and a welcome sense of space after a day on the road. The park leans into a relaxed, old-school Florida vibe with grassy sites, mature trees offering tons of shade, clean restrooms and showers and a layout that feels friendly and low-key rather than overly polished. One of our favorite family moments here was loading the boys into the car after dinner and heading out to watch a satellite launch from Cape Canaveral, their chatter slowly turning into wide-eyed silence as the rocket lit up the sky and left a glowing trail we’ll never forget. Earlier that evening, we enjoyed a classic Space Coast dinner at Dixie Crossroads, where the family shared baskets of rock shrimp, hushpuppies and sweet tea, making it feel like a true Florida rite of passage. From what we saw, the best sites are those closer to the river side of the park, where gentle breezes and morning bird calls make early coffee feel especially peaceful. We’d recommend Indian River RV Park for families who value EZ access, a quiet and shaded campground atmosphere, and close proximity to unforgettable local experiences like waterfront dining, Cuban cafes (just out the back corner) and watching rockets soar into space.
ScoutThis campground is close to Kenedy Space Center and Merritt Island. It has full hookups and plenty of amenities. Restrooms are clean. Some of the sites are quite small, but there are plenty of large sites for big rigs.
ScoutZephyrhills colony has new Management. It's like a breath of fresh air.A weight is lifted from our shoulders of constant harassment and being hawked at on a daily basis. The parking pads are beautiful.The construction crew did an excellent job and the yellow stripes on the roads are amazing.We are so thankful for this improvement in our park that we can be proud and happy at once and for all. I thank God for answered prayer personally.Now I can breathe now.I can live amen
GuideSpent two nights here again. Sept. 27th and 28th. During the day time there were a lot of Love Bugs. My camping kitty loved chasing them. At night or at sun down I was bombarded with bugs. Even if I tried to attract them to a higher light and I was in the dark, didn't help. So this time of the year, sunset = go inside.
Also, the description above is wrong.
This dispersed camping area within Ocala National Forest DOES NOT provide water hookups, restrooms, and picnic tables along with standard amenities like trash service and campfire permissions.
The campground DOES NOT maintain water availability throughout the site and DOES NOT HAVE ANY clean restroom facilities.
Other than that, I will be back.
GuideSpent two nights here again. September 27th and 28th. This is a great dispersed camping area. You only need to know your limits with soft sand. During the day there were a lot of love bugs and the water was great. As soon as the sun sets, at this time of the year the bugs were terrible. Even if you tried to attract them up in the air with a Devos light you will be bombarded. Sunset = go inside. Other than the night time bugs, it's a great place. I will be back.
TravelerGrass is beyond high. Little dogs can get lost in the grass. Some of the pavers near the pool stairs are lifting to where you need to watch your step or it pinches your foot.
The pros- centrally located. Clean pool. Not too busy of a campground. Large places.
Tent camping near Flamingo, Florida offers experiences within dense hammock forests, freshwater marshes, and pine flatwoods typical of south-central Florida ecosystems. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September. Water levels fluctuate seasonally throughout the region, with many trails becoming partially submerged during the wet season.
Paddling the Econlockhatchee River: Access the river from East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest where multiple primitive sites provide direct water access. "My wife and I love the Little Big Econ State Forest. It has numerous trail heads, and offers a wide variety of outdoor activity activities," notes Steven V., who appreciates the traditional rustic Florida camping experience.
Swimming at Rock Springs: Located 45 minutes northwest of Orlando near King's Landing, these crystal-clear springs maintain a constant 68-72°F year-round. "The springs are crystal clear, especially when you're the 1st one out there in the a.m. which is a huge perk of camping here. The line to get in for non-campers gets really long fast," reports Chad N.
Wildlife viewing: The Geneva nature center provides educational opportunities before heading to campsites. "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," writes Jeanene A.
Privacy and seclusion: At Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites, campers appreciate the isolation from other groups. "The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away), but it can be prone to flooding, so I would wear waterproof hiking boots," advises Meghan C.
Communal atmosphere: Some sites foster interaction between camping groups. "It has a very cozy communal vibe. Saturday nights they host a large fire down by the boat launch for everyone to join," explains Rishi B. about King's Landing.
Educational opportunities: "The Education Center: Ed Yarborough Center on the property near the group site was open for our group and was amazing," shares Tracy L.H. about Geneva Wilderness Area. Their night hikes around the lakes provide guided learning opportunities about local ecosystems.
Seasonal flooding: Water levels change dramatically with rainfall. "Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months," warns Jamie C. about hiking in the region.
Variable site conditions: Campsite quality differs significantly across locations. "The campsites are just a short walk to the lake and the fishing pier. 14 sites total some closer to each other than others, but we had no neighbors," notes Jeff A. about Lake Mills Park.
Wildlife encounters: "This entire area is infested with raccoons and black bears, so you want to make sure that all of your food and gear doesn't run off in the middle of the night – and trust me, whatever you don't have inside your tent or car WILL be stolen by the raccoons," cautions Stuart K.
Kid-friendly facilities: "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," explains Billy A.
Accessibility considerations: For beginning campers, look for sites with minimal hiking. "It's a long walk to a primitive site, but totally worth it. If I go again, I'll bring a folding cart to bring more supplies. Can't complain for a free campsite," advises BT E. about Hal Scott Preserve County Park.
Camp program options: "Basically, whatever you can conjure up for a summer camping experience for kid campers this place has in spades. There's a swimming pool, vertical climbing walls, free-standing cabins and plenty of trails," notes Stuart K. about Camp Wewa in Apopka.
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping areas near Flamingo restrict large vehicles. "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," explains Jordan F.
Alternative arrangements: "We found a not-as-primitive campsite after already having set up our tents, but that's our fault," shares Samantha J. about navigation challenges at Little Big Econ State Forest.
Weather preparation: "Traffic can be clearly heard on the main streets that border the campground. Also, there is an adjacent country bar with the sound system that was set up we could clearly hear everything that was going on there," warns Jeff A. about noise considerations when selecting sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Flamingo, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Flamingo, FL is Lake Mills Park with a 4.4-star rating from 10 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Flamingo, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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