Tent campsites near Kenansville, Florida provide access to the region's unique scrub ecosystem and freshwater marshlands. The area sits on the Lake Wales Ridge, a sandy spine running through central Florida with elevations reaching 295 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop into the 40s, creating variable camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Blue Cypress County Park offers excellent lake fishing access. "This is a neat little plot of land to base some fishing from. It's run by Middleton's Fish Camp Park, so really this location on the map needs a name change," notes camper B+J S. who adds that "the lake is a birders paradise if you're into that. All along are big osprey nests in the trees."
Tram rides: Highlands Hammock State Park Campground features special seasonal events. "We were treated to a night time tram ride because the 26 species of fireflies were out for a 2-week period," shares Larry M. The park's tram provides access to areas not reachable by foot.
Mountain biking: Wickham Park Campground offers dedicated trails for biking enthusiasts. "It's a great place with lots of bike/walking paths and wide open, quiet spaces. Hope to take advantage of the fishing ponds, mountain bike trails and archery range in future visits," writes Jeff F.
Wildlife observation: Keep watch for gopher tortoises at Wickham Park. "We loved the fallen tree, and so do kids to climb! It was a nice hidden surprise. There is however a nest of gopher tortoises under the tree," reports Alicia B.
What campers like
Shade availability: Hal Scott Preserve County Park offers natural canopy cover. "Sites are neatly cleared with mature oak trees that provide a canopy for shade," according to Jamie C. This creates comfortable tent sites even during hot Florida days.
Bathroom facilities: While primitive sites lack facilities, some campgrounds provide clean options. At Wickham Park, "The bathrooms and showers are pretty good too! They get nice and hot!" reports Alicia B.
Storm shelters: Hal Scott Preserve's second camping site includes safety features. "The second site, about 2 miles in, has a storm shelter nearby for those sudden afternoon thunderstorms," notes Jamie C., providing important protection during Florida's unpredictable weather patterns.
Space between sites: Highlands Hammock State Park Campground can feel crowded during peak times. "We camp here 1 night 2 adults and 4 kids. The place is comfortable and the boathouse are clean. They should implement more distances between the camping sites. It was really crowded," shares Paolo D.
What you should know
Access challenges: Tent sites at Hal Scott Preserve County Park require significant hiking. "It's a long walk to a primitive site, but totally worth it. There's no real way of knowing if the sites are already taken, so be prepared for that," advises BT E. Campers should plan accordingly.
Trail conditions: Expect water-covered paths during rainy seasons. "Be prepared for a hike to the sites (except group site). Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months," warns Jamie C.
Site availability: First-come, first-served policies apply at many locations. "There's no real way of knowing if the sites are already taken, so be prepared for that," notes BT E. about Hal Scott Preserve.
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters are possible at Highlands Hammock. "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," cautions Sri G.
Tips for camping with families
Bring a cart: For hike-in sites, transport assistance helps with gear. "If I go again, I'll bring a folding cart to bring more supplies. Can't complain for a free campsite," suggests BT E. about Hal Scott Preserve.
Weekend crowding: Highlands Hammock State Park Campground fills quickly during holidays. "Holiday weekends are insane and busy. Get reservations... Enjoy the Tram and Hammock Loop, wow!" advises James L.
Kid-friendly activities: Wickham Park offers diverse recreation options. "We love camping here! It's very close to shops but it doesn't feel like it when you're in the campground. Close to beaches. Lots of trails to walk or mountain bike. We're full timers so we took advantage of the community garden here for a season. Disc golf, food trucks, farmers market, playground the list goes on!" reports Mikella.
Sun protection: Some sites lack natural shade. At Blue Cypress County Park, "There's no shade in the camping area, but there are two fire pits and two picnic tables, so bring a pop up or shelter tent for the midday sun," recommends B+J S.
Tips from RVers
Narrow roads: Navigate with caution at some campgrounds. "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!" warns Bran P. about Highlands Hammock State Park.
Social activities: Highlands Hammock State Park Campground offers community events. "They also have lots of ranger-led activities like soup night, covered dish dinners, camper coffee, etc etc," notes Bran P.
Site spacing: Consider privacy needs when selecting sites. "The sites were a bit close together. They also have lots of ranger-led activities like soup night, covered dish dinners, camper coffee, etc etc," Bran P. observes at Highlands Hammock State Park.
