Cabins near Lakeshore, Florida serve as a convenient base to explore central Florida's prairie landscape. The region sits on the northern edge of the Kissimmee River basin with an average elevation of 131 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, making December through March the most popular season for cabin rentals in the area.
What to do
Attend a western-style rodeo: At Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, Saturday night rodeos are a highlight. "We actually got a spot at RRRVR (river ranch RV resort) which is on the backside by the smoke house restaurant. It was lot 196 and it was FANTASTIC! River ranch has so much to do. Rodeos, food, putt putt, petting zoo- and tons more," shares one visitor.
Watch airboat performances: Several lakeside cabin accommodations offer airboat experiences. "We went on an airboat ride. It was great. We really enjoyed the rodeo," notes a camper who stayed at Westgate River Ranch Resort.
Explore the Auburndale bike trail: Just outside Camp Margaritaville RV Resort is a 29-mile trail system. "There's an eagle preserve by the lake and the Auburndale bike trail (29 miles!) just outside of the entrance," mentions one reviewer who appreciated this outdoor option.
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites: At Resort at Canopy Oaks, the concrete pads provide ample space. "The sites are very spacious! The trees were planted in December 2020, so there's not much shade at this point. Plenty of things to do," reports a guest who valued the room to spread out.
Entertainment options: Multiple resorts feature family activities beyond just lodging. "We came out for a quick getaway as this is only about an hour from home. The place was dead, but still amazing. Everything was open, and we had most of the resort to ourselves. The staff was great. Pool was fun. Food and drinks reasonable," explains a visitor to Resort at Canopy Oaks.
Multiple pool areas: Some resorts feature separate pool areas for different experiences. "Margaritaville is so clean & spacious! There are two big pools (the back one is quiet) with bars, yummy drinks and good food," notes a guest at Camp Margaritaville who appreciated the options.
What you should know
Weather and shade considerations: Many newer cabin sites lack mature trees. "We did a short 3 night 4 day trip from Thursday to Sunday after the July 4th weekend. On Thursday when we arrived the park was empty and only a few more rigs showed up after we arrived. It was nice having the park so empty, made it more relaxing," shares a Resort at Canopy Oaks visitor who also noted the summer bug situation.
Weekend crowds: Peak occupancy happens on weekends, especially during winter. "Our site I was in was grass/dirt with a nice sized cement slab. Full hook up, water, sewer and electric (no cable). However I was able to pull up several hundred digital HD channels and there is high speed Wi-Fi in the park," explains a guest at Butch's RV Hideaway.
Construction impacts: Several resorts are expanding their facilities. "We stayed in 392, which is right behind the dog run and the amenities area. We don't own a dog and we were awakened by a few dog barks and a lot of owners playing with their dogs. Quiet hours are 10pm to 8am," notes a visitor to Camp Margaritaville who also mentioned construction noise.
Tips for camping with families
Book waterfront cabin sites: At Oak Hammock Resort, lakefront locations offer entertainment value. "Clean well kept park. Beautiful landscape mixed with outdoor activities. Pond in addition to lake. Bountiful with wildlife. Full hookups, laundry, game room, outdoor ping pong, trails, lakeside dock, fishing dock on pond and wifi," reports a guest.
Plan for organized activities: Many resorts offer scheduled children's events. "We had a great time. The camp sites and the whole resort area is very clean and safe. I felt comfortable with my kid running around on her scooter. They had a lot of activities for the kids during spring break," shares a visitor to Camp Margaritaville.
Rent transportation: Golf carts help families navigate larger properties. "You need a golf cart or bikes to get around," advises one visitor to Westgate River Ranch Resort, where internal distances can be considerable.
Tips from RVers
Choose waterfront sites: For fishing accessibility, certain locations offer direct water access. "Blend of residents and campers long and short term. Most pads are brick pavers with full hook ups. Daily, weekly, monthly and multiple months. They have air boat tours, guided fishing trips (bass)," explains a reviewer at Camp Mack about the options.
Check cell service coverage: Some areas have limited cellular connectivity. "FYI, We have T-Mobile and there is zero signal, no bars for T-Mobile in this park," warns a visitor to Butch's RV Hideaway who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Verify resort-specific rules: Different properties have varying regulations. "Hosts take you to your spot and help you back in if needed. All the perks- pools, recreation, concrete pads, paved roads. The dog baths and parks are awesome," shares a visitor to Camp Margaritaville who appreciated the assistance.