Camping near Haines City, Florida offers accessibility to natural settings while still remaining within reach of central Florida attractions. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations under 200 feet above sea level on predominantly flat terrain, with lakes and wetlands creating natural boundaries between developed areas. Winter temperatures average 60-70°F during the day, making December through March the prime camping season when humidity levels drop significantly.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Lake Kissimmee State Park: Just 40 minutes from Haines City, this park offers exceptional wildlife encounters. "Deers all around even among the campsites. Some tours available close by for airboats," writes Robert T. about Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground. Lorilee S. adds: "Tons of deer all over, all the time. The campground is definitely nice and pitch black at night."
Biking trails close to campgrounds: Several parks feature dedicated cycling paths. "We also enjoyed riding our bikes into Clermont," notes Travyl Couple about Lake Louisa State Park. "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," shares Dave V.
Water recreation options: Lakes provide swimming and boating opportunities away from crowded pools. At Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale, "There are two basketball courts & a couple of small dog runs. There's an eagle preserve by the lake and the Auburndale bike trail (29 miles!) just outside of the entrance," reports Amanda W.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathhouse facilities: Many campers highlight the quality of restroom facilities. "The bath house was very clean each time we used it. Park rangers were friendly each time we saw them," reports Lorilee S. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, Cyndi B. notes: "The bath house was very clean and modern, with spacious shower stalls and plenty of hot water."
Disney-themed camping experience: For families wanting the Disney atmosphere with camping benefits, Fort Wilderness offers unique theming. "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," says Darcy S.
Privacy between sites: Unlike hotel accommodations, many campgrounds offer separation between camping spaces. Barbara J. describes Lake Kissimmee State Park: "Campsites are private, separated by lots of flora. Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther!" At Lake Louisa, "All of the sites seemed level, most are quite private with a fair amount of trees/foliage in between sites."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Winter months require advance planning. "We came down to Florida to escape NY in 2020, chose from a map! While here, we made good friends with other snowbirds and travelers," shares MaryAnn D. about Cypress Campground & RV Park.
Limited shade at newer resorts: Recently developed campgrounds often lack mature trees. At Camp Margaritaville, "What it lacks in shade it makes up for with 2 nice pools, one geared toward kids with a fountain and very fun twisty slide, music, TV's etc."
Traffic and construction impacts: Several campgrounds are expanding or located near busy roads. "When we arrived, there was a solid amount of road construction going on right in front of Sun Outdoors Orlando, so unless that has changed (call ahead if this is of concern), then I would highly suggest booking a spot furthest away the front of the campground," advises Stuart K.
Tips for camping with families
Choose resorts with kid-specific amenities: Some campgrounds have dedicated children's areas. At Orlando/Kissimmee KOA, "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," notes L B.
Consider activity schedules: Planned events keep kids engaged. "They had a lot of activities for the kids during spring break. The only negative was that the pool area seemed a little small for the number of people there. Very crowded," reports Shannon S. about Camp Margaritaville.
Look for bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Safe cycling options provide additional recreation. "The winding roadways within the park offer great bicycling opportunities, making me pine for mine which sat idly in my garage back home," shares Dave V. about Lake Louisa State Park.
Tips from RVers
Golf cart rentals: At larger resorts, personal transportation helps. At Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, "Rent a golf cart if you don't have one. Transportation was OK and the Tavern was very nice," recommends Donald M. Kirsten J. agrees: "Who doesn't love this place!!! From the second you get there it's an experience. From the boat ride to Magic Kingdom to all the great activities they have. All I can say is Rent a golf cart, it's worth it!!!"
Site selection for big rigs: Some campgrounds have tight maneuvering spaces. Samantha O. shares about Fort Wilderness: "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. 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."
Internet connectivity varies: Working campers should research WiFi options. At Thousand Trails Orlando, "Cell signals: This park is in Clermont, FL and it's not a huge town but decent sized town. There isn't great cell service. The park is further from a tower and there are so many RVers in the area that don't count towards the population, it becomes a bandwidth issue," explains Laura H.
