Camping in this part of Florida features sandy soil with abundant pine forests and palm hammocks at elevations typically under 50 feet above sea level. The Indialantic region sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon, creating unique camping microclimates. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally drop into the 40s.
What to Do
Rocket launch viewing: 15 miles from Kennedy Space Center. At Manatee Hammock Campground, campers have prime viewing spots across the water. "We saw two rocket launches while here. Make sure you visit Port Canaveral and eat at the many excellent restaurants," shares Dave D.
Fishing from dedicated piers: Access at multiple locations. Manatee Hammock provides waterfront fishing opportunities. "The dock is also the perfect place to catch some redfish or snook," according to one visitor. The park includes a kayak launch ramp for water access.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk optimal. Kilpatrick Hammock at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve offers exceptional wildlife encounters. "The animals just weren't afraid of humans. Our 6 teenagers were so excited to stand face-to-face, only a few feet from gentle deer, bunnies, and turkeys. We even saw some lazy baby alligators sunning on the Military Trail," reports Roxxy G.
What Campers Like
Private, wooded sites: Larger than standard RV parks. Lake Kissimmee State Park provides secluded camping spots. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shade trees. Each site has a firepit. Bathrooms were clean. Lots of small trails to explore and tall watch tower climb for observation," notes Stephanie G.
Clean facilities: Daily maintenance reported. Joy RV Park maintains its amenities well. "Each site is equipped with water hookups, electric connections, and sewage facilities. What's impressive is that these amenities are available on every site, setting them apart as the most competitively priced campground in the vicinity," explains Amelie G.
Dark sky viewing: Minimal light pollution. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park offers Florida's only certified dark sky site. "Having been here multiple times since, we are never disappointed with the starry views. We stayed in the equestrian campgrounds twice. The equestrian sites have hook ups similar to the regular campground sites and there is also primitive camping as well as sites for astronomy," explains Jessica S.
What You Should Know
Remote locations: Limited services. Many parks require advance planning. "Expect a long travel to this remote site. It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways," advises David G. about Kissimmee Prairie Preserve.
Cell service limitations: Work considerations. River Ranch RV Resort and other remote sites have connectivity challenges. "Be aware of telephone phone reception. At our spot we could not get any reception with ATT. After buying a Verizon hotspot down the road in Lake Wales, we were able to WFH," reports Andoni G.
Train noise: Consider site selection carefully. Some campgrounds have railroad proximity issues. "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays," mentions L.O. about their experience.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bring bikes: Extensive trail systems available. Lake Kissimmee State Park offers "beautiful shaded sites and long biking/trails" according to Alexandra E. Many campsites are spread out, making bikes practical for getting around.
Pet considerations: Dedicated areas at select locations. Manatee Hammock Campground accommodates pet owners well. "It is so nice, right on the Indian river. There is a large fenced Dog Park on the riverfront. Near Titusville, FL. You can see Kennedy Space Center across the water," shares Dennis J.
Budget for activities: Costs beyond camping fees. Westgate River Ranch Resort offers numerous family activities with additional costs. "The park has a pool, air-boat rides, a rodeo (Saturdays only), petting zoo, and a fun area for kids with zip lines and other activities. Most activities are at a cost," notes Ilena R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific areas. Some campgrounds have significant site variations. "The west side has nice wide concrete sites, the east side is on dirt and gravel and not so nice. When I made my reservation I missed the pick your site ($30 add on?), but given the difference between the two sides, it would have been worth it," advises Mark S. about Cape Kennedy RV Resort.
Low hanging branches: Caution for taller rigs. Several campgrounds have mature trees. "If you have a tall rv low hanging branches in the camp area might be an issue," warns Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. Site access can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Seasonal rates: Significant variations. Road Runner Travel Resort offers better value for longer stays. "Short stays are not cheap, but longer stays are pretty affordable considering the great pool and all there is to do," shares Jessica A. Many glamping in Indialantic-area campgrounds offer monthly rates at substantial discounts.
