Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park offers multiple camping options for horse enthusiasts within an hour's drive of Lake Placid, Florida. The preserve sits at approximately 63 feet above sea level on a vast Florida prairie ecosystem spanning over 54,000 acres. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop into the 40s, making fall through spring the preferred seasons for equestrian camping.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Florida National Scenic Trail runs through Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park for over twenty miles, providing extensive riding routes. "Lots of trails, and into the prairie. Many birds, deer, beautiful butterflies, snakes, and raccoons! Very peaceful quiet campground," reports Lauren W., who has visited multiple times.
Stargazing sessions: The preserve is designated as Florida's only Dark Sky site, making it ideal for astronomical observations after riding. "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," advises Annell N.
Wildlife photography: Capture images of native species throughout the prairie landscape. At Lake Kissimmee State Park, located 45 minutes from Lake Placid, "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," shares Roxxy G.
What campers like
Remote location: The isolation creates a truly immersive equestrian camping experience. David G. notes, "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." This seclusion is part of what makes the equestrian camping experience near Lake Placid so special.
Clean facilities: Hardee Lakes Park, about 35 miles west of Lake Placid, maintains high standards for their amenities. "The campground and amenities are extremely well maintained. Lots of very nice trails around the lakes and surrounding woods. The trail's are wide and hard backed," writes Jim W., who used the park as a stopover while crossing Florida.
Diverse trail terrain: The variety of riding routes accommodates different skill levels. At Peace River Campground, "This is a great Campground just outside of Arcadia Florida. It has ATV trails and fossilized shark tooth hunting. It has a Wilderness Area as well as developed the campground area," according to Laura D.
What you should know
Supply preparation: The remote nature of many equestrian campgrounds requires thorough planning. "Be sure to fuel up and have plenty of groceries," advises Annell N. about Kissimmee Prairie Preserve. Similarly, Monte W. shares, "Definitely bring everything that you need because there is nothing around for many miles."
Weather considerations: Central Florida's climate affects camping conditions significantly. For equestrian campers at Istokpoga Canal Boat Ramp and Campsite, Joseph M. warns, "If you aren't familiar with central Florida summers, which is about 11 1/2 months of the year it's hot, humid, and loaded with bugs. We also have great wildlife. Use caution around them, especially near the water with small pets."
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian sites require advance booking. JERRY C. notes about Istokpoga Canal, "First, you need a reservation. SFWMD is where you can get a reservation. You need to have an account. It's easy."
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty assessment: When bringing children on horseback rides, evaluate trail challenges first. Roxxy G. recounts her experience: "The Prairie Loop Trail took much longer than we anticipated, and the wind pushing us back was insane, but it was gorgeous and we had a lot of fun."
Educational opportunities: Use the unique environment for learning experiences. At Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, "We did the air boat ride and it was a fun experience... Great weekend camping and great campsite for families with small kids," shares Ilena R., highlighting activities that complement equestrian adventures.
Pack entertainment: Bring activities for non-riding time. Lauren W. shares about Lake Kissimmee State Park, "we went during Spring Break! we were there four nights. We took our two grandchildren, and they had a lot of fun! It was fantastic!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For equestrian camping with RVs, choosing the right location matters. At Caloosahatchee Regional Park, bailey J. advises, "Our second visit, we stayed on site 24. This site backs up directly to 25 and is right behind the bathrooms/showers. This site was also perfect for us despite the limited privacy."
Utility planning: Understand hookup limitations at equestrian sites. Jessica S. notes about Kissimmee Prairie, "The equestrian sites have hook ups similar to the regular campground sites and there is also primitive camping as well as sites for astronomy."
Road conditions: Be aware of access challenges when towing horse trailers. Lauren W. mentions, "washboard road for miles to get to the hammock, and it was in bad shape," highlighting the importance of checking road conditions before arriving with horses and equipment.
