Camping options near Lake Alfred are situated in central Florida's subtropical climate zone at elevations around 150-170 feet above sea level. The area's campgrounds are well-positioned between Orlando's attractions and the natural landscapes of Polk County, offering access to freshwater lakes and conservation areas. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, making December through February the most comfortable season for tent camping in this region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Polk County's Saddle Creek Park offers multiple ponds for fishing. "Great spot for fishing. Thrift and bait shop nearby," notes a camper at Saddle Creek Park and Campground. Many sites provide direct access to lakes stocked with bass and other freshwater species.
Biking trails: Access the 29-mile Auburndale trail network. The entrance is just outside Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale, where a visitor mentioned, "There's an eagle preserve by the lake and the Auburndale bike trail (29 miles!) just outside of the entrance." This paved trail system connects multiple parks and neighborhoods.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for native Florida species. At Colt Creek State Park Campground, campers regularly spot diverse wildlife. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," shares one reviewer. The park's four lakes provide habitats for various bird species year-round.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Many campgrounds feature spacious RV pads. "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water at each site for RV camping," according to a camper at Colt Creek State Park Campground. Sites often include concrete or paver patios alongside the parking areas.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained comfort stations. "The bath house had 3 toilets and 3 shower/dressing areas. They were clean and decorated with butterfly theme," noted a visitor at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Many campgrounds offer full laundry facilities with vending machines for detergent.
Lake recreation: Options for kayaking and canoeing. At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, a reviewer appreciated the water access: "We were easily able to roll our Kayaks to Dixie lake from our campsite." Several parks provide boat rentals and designated swimming areas separate from fishing zones.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Prepare for high temperatures and humidity. From June through September, daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with afternoon thunderstorms common. Most campsites provide some form of electrical hookup for fans or air conditioning units.
Booking windows: Reserve well in advance for peak season. Winter months attract significant numbers of seasonal campers to the Lake Alfred area. A camper at Thousand Trails Orlando observed, "We enjoy this park a lot because it has so much to offer in the park, nearby, and we often see our friends here each winter."
Fire restrictions: Not all campgrounds allow open flames. "The only downfall is no fires," notes a visitor at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Some locations permit portable fire pits or grills while prohibiting ground fires, particularly during dry periods in spring.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Consider campgrounds with splash areas. "They've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults," according to a camper at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale. Many resorts program specific pool hours for family swim time.
Rental options: Cabins for families without camping gear. "We opted for the cabin option during our stay at Lake Louisa and we were very happy with the choice. Cabin was fully furnished and very clean," shares a visitor. These accommodations typically include air conditioning, beds, and basic kitchen facilities.
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled events. "They had a lot of activities for the kids during spring break," notes a camper about Camp Margaritaville. Winter and spring break periods often feature the most robust activity calendars with crafts, games, and movie nights.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request spots away from busy amenities. A visitor at Orlando/Kissimmee KOA mentioned, "Our site was provided prior to arrival and check in was easy the next morning." Many parks allow specific site requests when booking in advance.
Hookup availability: Most sites offer 50-amp service. "Very nice place, close to everything. They had a pool, shuffle board and tennis courts. Nice level sites with water, sewer and 50 amp," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Orlando. Full-hookup sites typically command premium rates compared to water/electric only options.
Transportation considerations: Golf carts are useful at larger resorts. "Rent a golf cart if you don't have one. Transportation was OK and the Tavern was very nice," advises a Disney's Fort Wilderness visitor. Some resorts offer on-site rentals while others require advance reservations from external vendors.
