Camping near Frostproof, Florida offers a mix of state forest settings and resort-style experiences in central Florida's interior region. Located within the Lake Wales Ridge area at approximately 120 feet above sea level, the region features sandy soil and pine flatwoods ecosystems unique to this part of Florida. Winter months (November through March) provide the most comfortable camping temperatures, generally ranging from 50-75°F with lower humidity than coastal areas.
What to do
Wildlife observation tours: Lake Kissimmee State Park provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities on its hiking trails and observation tower. "We saw people on seaways which was a first while we were camping. Very 'Florida' feeling with the trees and somewhat secluded sites," notes one visitor to Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Fossil hunting activities: The Peace River area offers unique opportunities for finding prehistoric shark teeth. A camper at Thousand Trails Peace River shared, "The highlight of this park was collecting shark and sting ray teeth along the river. You can get wire mesh baskets in the office to aid in your search."
Spring tubing adventures: Rock Springs offers clear water tubing experiences about an hour north of Frostproof. "Enjoyed floating down the spring and riding our bikes around the park! The campsites were nice and spacious for our tent," reports a camper at Kelly Rock Springs Campground.
State park hiking: Highlands Hammock State Park features unique ecosystems with several short trails. "The walking trails at this park were all quite small and friendly for all. We had a bear visit the garbage bin during the night, so you'll have to pay attention to storing your food during the night," advises a recent visitor.
What campers like
Well-separated campsites: Lake Kissimmee State Park offers more privacy than many Florida campgrounds. "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," according to a visitor.
Organized activities: Westgate River Ranch Resort offers scheduled events beyond typical campground amenities. "We did the air boat ride and it was a fun experience. The restaurant is ok, is not great but it has good pulled pork. Great weekend camping and great campsite for families with small kids," notes a camper at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.
Resort amenities: Newer resort properties offer additional recreation options beyond traditional camping. A visitor to Resort at Canopy Oaks reports, "Bathhouse was extremely clean and showers are really spacious and private. Plenty of things to do. Pizza restaurant, ice cream shop, coffee shop, store for some essentials, salon, spa, pool table, ping pong table, pickle ball, basketball, shuffleboard, tiki bar, pool and spa with waterfall."
Spacious sites: Campsites at Rainbow RV Resort provide ample room for larger rigs. "This rv park is one of the cleanest parks. Lots of activities to do. Great place to walk. Everyone is very friendly," according to a visitor.
What you should know
Cash payment requirements: Some parks have specific payment rules. At Lake Arbuckle Park & Campground, a camper notes, "It's first come, first serve though & you have to have CA$H handy. The facilities are super clean and well maintained."
Limited cellular connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. A visitor to Lake Kissimmee State Park warns, "Be aware that we had no cell service. After buying a Verizon hotspot down the road in Lake Wales, we were able to WFH."
Campsite allocation systems: Some campgrounds use unusual systems for site selection. At Highlands Hammock State Park Campground, "The roads in the campground are a bit narrow, traffic can go both ways (even though they are only one lane!), and the dump station is not in the best place!"
Reservation requirements: Availability varies seasonally at the best places to camp near Frostproof, Florida. "Call ahead for reservations, will gate code to enter," advises a visitor to Walk In The Water Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs. Highlands Hammock State Park offers unique seasonal experiences, as one camper shared: "We were treated to a night time tram ride because the 26 species of fireflies were out for a 2 week period. The area is beautiful and shady, staff very friendly, lots of critters on the trails."
Transportation considerations: Larger resort properties require planning for getting around. "Bring your bikes as everything is a bit of a walk from the campground," advises a visitor to Westgate River Ranch Resort.
Entertainment options: Best camping destinations near Frostproof for families often include organized activities. At Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, "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."
Cooler season planning: Summer heat significantly impacts family comfort. A visitor to Resort at Canopy Oaks notes, "This would've been better for us during the cooler months as the sun did beat us down as the days passed. They're right next to River Ranch which has smaller but better landscaped sites."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many parks have tight turning radiuses. "Holy moly did it take a lot to get this into our spot. Our neighbor across from us had to move his truck and several neighbors were helping direct us into our spot," reports an RVer at Disney's Fort Wilderness.
Power stability concerns: Monitoring electrical systems may be necessary during peak usage. At Thousand Trails Peace River, "Watch the electricity during high usage the voltage drop, ours droped to 108v for a couple hours, i choose to run the gen during that time other then that no problems at all."
Tree clearance issues: Low-hanging branches present hazards at several campgrounds. A camper at Lake Kissimmee State Park advises, "Two things to watch out for - be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in, and be aware that we had no cell service."
Flooding awareness: Some campgrounds have drainage challenges during Florida's rainy season. "There were some serious concerns with flooding. Many large rigs were parked in the flood plane which encompasses a large section of the park," cautions a visitor to Thousand Trails Peace River.
