Lakeland's camping opportunities spread across freshwater lakes and conservation lands, with over 38,000 acres of water bodies in Polk County alone. Most camping spots near Lakeland, Florida sit at elevations below 200 feet, creating flat terrain ideal for beginner hikers and cyclists. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September, with afternoon thunderstorms common during these months.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: At Colt Creek State Park, visitors can enjoy fishing in several small lakes throughout the property. According to one camper: "There are 4 lakes (no swimming) on the property kayak/canoe rentals, nice fishing areas and a dock. Lots of wildlife." The park offers both developed campsites and primitive options along a 10-mile loop trail.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Edward Medard Park provides excellent wildlife spotting chances near Plant City. "Beautiful park with a lot of wild life. The campground had bathrooms and showers available at a short walking distance," notes one visitor. The park includes fishing piers and hiking trails where alligators are commonly seen.
Biking and hiking trails: The Van Fleet State Trail runs near several Lakeland camping areas, offering 29 miles of paved cycling path. Near Camp Margaritaville RV Resort, one camper highlighted: "Very close to a long biking trail & there's a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff." The resort features concrete pads and paved roads suitable for bikes of all types.
What campers like
Waterfront camping sites: Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground offers direct water access from most sites. A camper reported: "Quiet and gorgeous; as every site has a view of the water, and trees/nature is abundant." The property features hiking trails along the water and opportunities for off-road biking.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Hillsborough River State Park maintains high standards for their amenities. One visitor stated: "The bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night." The park also features rapids, which are unusual in Florida's typically flat terrain.
Diverse camping options: Sun n Fun Campground provides both full-hookup sites in grass fields and more rustic water/electric sites. According to a visitor: "Located just south of Lakeland this park offers multiple amenities for group gatherings including a large firepit and stage area." The campground includes sites near an airport where campers can watch planes.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation essential: Hillsborough River State Park has significant insect activity, particularly in summer months. A camper warned: "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog." The park features oak tree canopies that provide shade but also harbor mosquitoes.
First-come, first-served policies: Several county parks don't accept reservations, requiring early arrival. At Edward Medard Park, a visitor noted: "Midweek is best time to visit as weekends fill fast (usually by Thursday night)." The park charges approximately $24 per night for standard sites.
Camping restrictions: Some parks prohibit ground fires but allow portable fire pits. At Saddle Creek Park, a camper explained: "No ground fires allowed but portable grills, fire pits allowed. Great spot for fishing. Thrift and bait shop nearby." The park charges $20 daily or $140 weekly for sites.
Tips for camping with families
Resort-style amenities: For families seeking entertainment options, Camp Margaritaville offers extensive kid-friendly facilities. A parent reported: "We love this Margaritaville location! The staff is always friendly, they've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults." Sites include concrete pads with turf areas.
Animal encounters: Wilderness Shores Ranch provides unique ranch animal experiences. As one visitor described: "Absolutely loved the place! Longhorns every where, goats, horse, cows. There's little tours they do on their side by sides. The property is huge! and plenty of roaming area." Children particularly enjoy petting the goats.
Kid-friendly trails: Colt Creek State Park offers accessible outdoor experiences for young explorers. A visitor mentioned: "There is a paved trail as well as wide dirt trails to explore. This is a great place to visit." The park features handicap-accessible sites with higher fire pits for safety.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some parks have limited maneuvering room for larger rigs. At Disney's Fort Wilderness, a camper cautioned: "There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your rv into the spot. There is plenty of room between your rv and your neighbor next to you but not a lot of room across from your spot." Many visitors recommend asking for assistance when backing into sites.
Resort hookup options: Full hookups aren't universally available at all campgrounds. A boondocker at Hillsborough River State Park shared: "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... but it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station."
