Best Campgrounds near Lake Wales, FL
Lake Wales, Florida provides multiple camping environments ranging from state parks to private resorts along the central Florida lake region. Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground offers primitive sites and RV hookups on the shores of Lake Kissimmee, while Oak Hammock Resort features cabin rentals and mixed-use campgrounds approximately 10 miles from downtown Lake Wales. The area includes both year-round facilities and seasonal operations with most sites accommodating tent campers, RVs, and some offering glamping options or cabin rentals. Several campgrounds provide water access with fishing opportunities on Lakes Rosalie and Kissimmee.
Campground amenities vary significantly throughout the region, with most developed sites offering electric hookups, drinking water, and picnic tables. "The park was clean, convenient and the staff was super friendly. Great amenities and a beautiful pool!" noted one camper about Cypress Campground. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s with high humidity, while winter brings milder conditions that attract seasonal visitors. Many campgrounds in the Lake Wales area require reservations, particularly during winter months when "snowbirds" arrive. Cell service can be spotty at more remote locations, and visitors should prepare for occasional afternoon thunderstorms during summer months.
Water-based recreation serves as the primary attraction for many Lake Wales area campgrounds, with fishing, swimming, and boating access available at several locations. Lake Rosalie Campground provides boat-in access along with traditional drive-in sites, creating multiple entry options for water enthusiasts. The landscape features a mix of pine forests, oak hammocks, and lake shorelines typical of the central Florida region. According to a recent review, "We fished off the dock, which was a lot of fun." Family-friendly amenities are common at the larger establishments, with swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities available at resorts like Camp Margaritaville and Cypress Campground. The proximity to attractions such as Legoland (approximately 15 miles from Lake Wales) makes these campgrounds popular with families seeking both outdoor recreation and entertainment options.
