Best Campgrounds near Longwood, FL
Central Florida's Longwood area features diverse camping options within a 30-minute drive, with state parks and private resorts offering varied experiences. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, just 6 miles northwest in Apopka, provides wooded sites with electric hookups and access to the park's namesake springs. Blue Spring State Park, approximately 20 miles north, offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with the added attraction of manatee viewing during winter months. Wekiva Falls RV Resort in nearby Sorrento combines camping with natural spring access, while Lake Monroe Park in DeBary features boat-in camping options along with traditional sites.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the Longwood vicinity, particularly during winter months when temperatures moderate and northern visitors arrive. The subtropical climate means summer camping requires preparation for heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms from June through September. As one camper noted about Blue Spring State Park, "One of the best campgrounds in a state park for separation between neighboring sites. Other than the occasional train, it's been one of the quietest campgrounds we've experienced." Most state parks maintain well-maintained facilities with showers and restrooms, though site privacy varies considerably between locations. Wildlife precautions are necessary, particularly for food storage, as raccoons are common throughout the region.
Natural springs represent the defining feature of many campgrounds near Longwood, offering swimming and paddling opportunities in crystal-clear 72°F water year-round. Several visitors highlight the contrast between developed amenities and natural settings. At Wekiva Falls, one camper observed, "The springs are one of my favorite day getaways with beautiful walking trails, refreshing cool springs, and kayak rentals. The campgrounds are very well kept with space and foliage between sites for privacy." Site selection matters significantly at popular locations like Wekiwa Springs, where some campers report issues with noise and crowding on weekends. County-managed facilities like Magnolia Park Campground on Lake Apopka receive praise for their organization and cleanliness, with separate areas designated for tent and RV camping.
