Central Florida camping offers diverse overnight options with elevation changes rarely exceeding 300 feet. Temperatures from November through March typically range from 50-75°F, creating comfortable camping conditions with lower humidity than summer months. The region features a mix of oak hammocks and wetlands that shape the camping experience.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at night: Lake Kissimmee State Park provides excellent stargazing and nocturnal wildlife opportunities. "We stayed middle of July for 4 days. Only saw 3 other campers the whole time. Park is super quiet and there is a ton of wildlife roaming," reports Corey K., who camped there in summer.
Fossil hunting along waterways: Peace River areas near Thousand Trails Peace River offer shark tooth collecting opportunities. "The highlight of this park was collecting shark and sting ray teeth along the river. You can get wire mesh baskets in the office to aid in your search," notes Laura H.
Historical demonstrations: Experience Florida's ranching heritage through living history exhibits. "Cow camp is only open Oct-May," explains one Lake Kissimmee visitor, providing timing information for this seasonal activity.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Lake Louisa State Park Campground features hilly trails unusual for Florida. "This park has totally awesome park roads for biking, trails for mountain biking and hiking, and equestrian trails. Be sure to carry a map, I got a little lost hiking because not all the trails were well marked," advises Travyl Couple.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between sites. "We stayed in site 19 for one night in early February. This site was very large, mostly level, with beautiful trees surrounding the site and great privacy," writes Denise about her Lake Kissimmee State Park stay.
Dark skies for astronomy: Kilpatrick Hammock Campground provides certified dark sky viewing. "The only designated dark sky site in Florida. It does not disappoint for night sky viewing. If you're camping here, please be courteous and keep your outdoor lights to a minimum," advises David G.
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Lakeshore, Florida provides a comfortable glamping experience. At River Ranch RV Resort, visitors can stay in well-appointed yurts with proximity to activities. "My family and I stayed here for a little over a week and wish we could stay longer. We stayed in a lot on the water and on a lot by the woods. The lots were beautiful, spacious and private," shares Katie F.
What you should know
Cell reception limitations: Many parks have spotty service. "We had no cell service (this actually made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work)," notes one Lake Kissimmee camper about connectivity issues.
Distance to supplies: Stock up before arrival at remote parks. "Keep an eye on gas, there's one place about 6 miles from the park and town is about 15 miles away," advises Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Reservation systems vary: Some parks use lottery systems for premium sites. At River Ranch RV Resort, "They have a system of getting sites. Our water hookup didn't have a handle. Notified the office and it was fixed. You don't see staff out much at all," explains one reviewer about the management style.
Seasonal activities: Many special programs run only during specific months. "Cow camp is only open oct-May," notes one Lake Kissimmee visitor about timing for historical demonstrations.
Tips for camping with families
Book specialty accommodations early: Yurt camping around Lakeshore, Florida requires advance planning. "We stayed in a lot on the water and on a lot by the woods. The lots were beautiful, spacious and private. There's lots to do around the property and the rodeo is a blast," shares Katie F. about Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.
Pack for wildlife encounters: Bring binoculars and field guides for kids. "Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther! While sitting in our screen gazebo, I was awed by the passing of a male panther about 25 yards from our campsite," recounts Barbara J. at Lake Kissimmee.
Bring insect protection: Bug activity increases at certain times. "Have to watch out for the mosquitoes so bring a lot of bug spray," advises Dean G. about River Ranch campgrounds, highlighting a common concern in Florida camping.
Tips from RVers
Tree clearance awareness: Watch for low-hanging branches when backing into sites. "Most of the spots are fully shaded with trees. If you have a tall rv low hanging branches in the camp area might be an issue," warns Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Pack-in necessities: Remote parks require self-sufficiency. "There are no stores or restaurants nearby, so pack well. These sites have water, electric, grill, and a table. Firewood is available for $7 cash per bundle (honor system)," explains Roxxy G. about her experience at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Consider renting onsite transportation: Many large resorts recommend golf carts. "Who doesn't love this place!!! From the second you get there it's an experience. From the bot ride to Magic Kingdom to all the great activities they have. All I can say is Rent a golf cart, it's worth it!!!" exclaims Kirsten J. about Fort Wilderness.
