Kenansville campgrounds sit within central Florida's flat prairie landscape at an average elevation of 67 feet above sea level. The area experiences average summer temperatures reaching 92°F with humidity levels often exceeding 80% during wet season (May-October). Camping spots near Kenansville feature cypress stands and oak hammocks surrounding shallow lakes and marshlands typical of this inland region.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Kissimmee: The expansive lake system offers exceptional fishing and boating opportunities at Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground. "There are deer everywhere and you can feed them," notes camper Judy B., highlighting the park's abundant wildlife access beyond water sports.
Night sky viewing: Kissimmee Prairie Preserve offers certified dark sky viewing without urban light pollution. "Astronomers love this park. In fact, they have a designated campground just for them. Be sure to ONLY use flashlights with red lense so that you do not disrupt the star gazers," explains reviewer Annell N. about the Kilpatrick Hammock Campground.
Airboat experiences: Several campgrounds provide direct access to guided tours. At Blue Cypress County Park, visitors can arrange lake excursions through the bait shop. "The owner also does guided lake trips if you're interested. Bring your boat or kayak to explore the lake. It's really big," recommends reviewer B+J S.
What campers like
Diverse wildlife viewing: Campers consistently mention animal encounters as a highlight. "We saw a giant sea turtle bigger than a manhole cover. We watched dolphins play at sunrise," shares Nora B. about Sebastian Inlet State Park, where waterfront sites provide direct wildlife observation opportunities.
Private camping sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites despite their proximity to water. "Lake Kissimmee State Park Review... For me this was the camp sites that were both spacious and private," notes Perry J., adding that "Like all state parks the bathrooms were spotless and rivaled those of a Marriott."
Unique cowboy culture: The western-themed Westgate River Ranch Resort offers activities rarely found in Florida. "We went to the rodeo on Saturday night, did a swamp buggy ride, skeet shooting, petting zoo and rode a mechanical bull... and there was still more we could have done," shares Tina S. about the diverse recreational options.
What you should know
Remote locations require planning: Most camping areas near Kenansville have limited services nearby. "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," warns David G. about Kissimmee Prairie Preserve.
Bug protection essential: Florida's subtropical climate creates ideal conditions for insects year-round. "Cons: No-see-ums are almost unbearable in the evening. But that come with the territory in Florida. Pack long-sleeves, pants, and serious bug spray," advises Spencer D. about Long Point Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have unreliable connectivity. "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," notes Andoni G., highlighting connectivity challenges even at developed resorts.
Tips for camping with families
Consider transportation needs: The size of some resorts makes internal transportation valuable. "Bring your bikes as everything is a bit of a walk from the campground," suggests Ilena R. about River Ranch, while Katie F. adds, "The only fault was there weren't many signs or direction on how to do things, when things were open, costs, and things like that. Also be prepared to spend more money, I would say a golf cart is a must!"
Plan for entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreational facilities for children. "Group of friends and family decided to stay on this gem, I was pleasantly surprised! Clean bathrooms and showers. Lots of amenities for kids like mini golf, zip lining and mechanical bull riding," shares Philip H. about his experience at Resort at Canopy Oaks.
Look for educational programs: Many parks offer nature-based learning opportunities. At Kissimmee Prairie, "The park staff knows how much the FTA and all our volunteers appreciate the work they do to preserve the prairie and promote the Florida Trail and the hiking public," shares Kim H., referencing organized educational activities.
Tips from RVers
Water and hookup considerations: Understand each campground's specific offerings before arriving. "The sites are very well kept but note that they are not full hookups as they don't have sewer systems," explains Ilena R. about Westgate River Ranch, highlighting the need to verify amenity details.
Site selection matters: At Coleman Landing at Shady Oaks, "Very peaceful and pretty deserted in June. Some spots were flooded due to recent heavy rains and others were blocked off due to COVID-19 social distancing requirements but we still had quite a selection of shady spots to choose from," reports Diane R., emphasizing how seasonal conditions affect site availability.
Shade availability varies: Newer campgrounds may lack mature trees. "The sites are very big & clean but ZERO shade. It's a newer resort so the palms and small trees were just planted & offer no sun relief," notes Amanda W. about Resort at Canopy Oaks, suggesting pop-up shelters for midday heat protection at exposed sites.
