Equestrian campers will find several horse-friendly facilities throughout central Florida's flatlands within 30 miles of Haines City. This area features specialized camping arrangements for those traveling with horses, offering separate trails designed for riders. The region has sandy soil that drains well during Florida's frequent afternoon summer thunderstorms, making most trails accessible year-round.
What to do
Ride through hills and pine forests: Lake Louisa State Park Campground features miles of trails through terrain that surprises many visitors. "The park is one of our many Trifecta parks, meaning we can hike, bike and kayak. The trails at Lake Louisa State Park wind through pine flatwoods and rolling hills, creating a riding experience unique to central Florida," explains Travyl Couple.
Visit Florida cowboys: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers a western camping experience with weekend rodeos. "Westgate River Ranch Resort is an awesome destination with camping, skeet shooting range, rodeo, petting zoo, mini golf, swamp buggy rides, swimming, dining, lodge and much more. The boys loved the rodeo that was held on the weekend. They even got to participate in chasing the calf to win a prize," shares Christy C.
Watch wildlife on trails: Colt Creek State Park Campground provides riding opportunities with abundant wildlife viewing. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," notes Barbara A. The park features wide, well-maintained paths suitable for horses and riders of all experience levels.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots with natural barriers. "This lovely state park in Central Florida gives campers the true feel of 'old Florida!' Campsites are private, separated by lots of flora. Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther!" exclaims Barbara J.
Clean facilities: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground maintains exceptional standards for equestrian campers. "The bathroom had 3 toilets and 3 shower/dressing areas. They were clean and decorated with butterfly theme. The laundry facility had about 6 washers and dryers," reports Samantha O. The attention to detail extends to horse facilities as well.
Low-cost options: Green Swamp West Tract provides budget-friendly equestrian camping with basic amenities. "You can't beat Green Swamp West for nice and quiet free camping area," states Robert H. The park requires free permits that must be displayed at the campground, with some sites offering non-potable water pumps for horses.
What you should know
Reservations required: Most equestrian sites need advance booking, especially during winter months. "A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground," explains Elliott B. about camping at Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Limited shade at newer facilities: Some recently developed horse campgrounds lack mature trees. "Because this is a new park the trees have not grown in well enough yet to provide adequate shade so be prepared for that," advises Jeanene A. about Colt Creek State Park.
Seasonal closures: Trail access varies throughout the year due to hunting seasons and water levels. "The park and associated trails are closed during different hunting dates. Take note," warns a camper about Green Swamp areas.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Lake Louisa State Park Campground offers diverse activities beyond horseback riding. "Like many families, ours enjoys their trips to Orlando. We are not big on the theme parks so staying at campgrounds has been our way to enjoy the family vacation, but in nature. Kayaked on Dixie Lake, hiked, swam, and biked while others were less than a ½ hour away hanging with Mickey Mouse," notes Sara S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning and evening rides for best animal sightings. "Wild turkeys visited us daily to hang out by a fallen tree near our site. Deer passed by every evening," shares a camper at Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Child-friendly amenities: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo features activities specifically designed for children. "Group of friends and family decided to stay on this gem, I was pleasantly surprised! Lots of amenities for kids like mini golf, zip lining and mechanical bull riding," reports Philip H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Request specific sites that accommodate horse trailers and RVs. "Our campsite was 1709. 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," advises Samantha O. about Fort Wilderness.
Bring additional water: Most equestrian sites have limited water facilities. "I use a quiet run generator and bring in 50 gallons of fresh water for weekend stays," recommends Nate D. about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Cell service limitations: Alafia River State Park Campground has spotty coverage in some areas. "Stay at site 19 for one night in early February. 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," warns one camper about connectivity issues in these rural equestrian campgrounds.