Tent camping options near Longwood, Florida range from secluded riverside spots to open field sites. Campsites in the region span four different watersheds within Seminole and neighboring counties, with most areas experiencing high humidity during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Winter camping offers more comfortable conditions with overnight lows in the 50s-60s and significantly lower humidity.
What to Do
Paddling Rock Springs Run: From King's Landing, campers have direct access to pristine waterways. "The launch is just a short walk from the camp sites and if you don't want to canoe, kayak or paddleboard then you can take a walk to the springs and just hang out in the water or on the sand with your favorite beverage," notes camper Chad N.
Hiking loop trails: The 7-mile trail at Black Bear Wilderness Area follows old levees with varying terrain. "Much of the trail is sloped to one side or the other. Along the way you will see some beautiful sites! The just over 7 mile trail takes you by orange trees cover in butterflies in spring, also wildflower lines trails and along the beautiful St Johns River," writes Jeanene A.
Overnight paddling trips: East Camp in Little Big Econ State Forest offers canoe-in camping options. "I can't wait to go back and have a camping/canoeing trip," says camper Alina R., while another visitor notes you can "paddle in and through via paddling trail."
What Campers Like
Solitude at primitive sites: Sites at Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites offer true seclusion. "The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away)," explains Meghan C. These sites feature picnic tables and fire rings but require hikers to carry in all supplies.
Early river access: King's Landing campers appreciate beating the crowds. "Kings Landing is absolutely breath taking. The springs are crystal clear, especially when you're the 1st one out there in the a.m. which is a huge perk of camping here. The line to get in for non-campers gets really long fast," explains Chad N.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: "The trails are filled with wildlife! Gopher tortoise, raccoon, shore birds, deer and so much more. The wildflowers in the spring and fall are eye catching," explains a camper at Geneva Wilderness Area, which features a wildlife viewing blind built by an Eagle Scout near the primitive camping area.
What You Should Know
Campsite reservations required: Most tent camping near Longwood requires advanced planning. Lake Mills Park has limited sites that fill quickly: "We happened upon this by chance but were very happy there! Lake access, playground, pavilions, geocaching, fishing, trails, and it was very quiet even though it was near a subdivision," reports Lisa P.
Variable shade conditions: Lake Mills Park offers 14 tent sites with differing sun exposure. "All sites were clean and very well cared for. The whole park was nice. Kids enjoyed the playground and fishing from the dock," notes a camper, while another mentions "some sites are closer to each other than others, but we had no neighbors."
Seasonal insect activity: Bug protection is essential, particularly during warmer months. "In summer at nights mosquitos come out here and will eat you up no matter how much bug spray you put on!" warns Brooklee E. about Little Big Econ State Forest trails. Yellow flies become active in spring at many locations.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: Multiple parks combine camping with family amenities. "This is a nice place to introduce kids to camping. It's not very far removed and there is a nice bathroom and a playground. There is a walking path and nice views of lake mills," notes Billy A.
Educational opportunities: Hontoon Island State Park provides unique learning experiences. "Who doesn't love spending time on an island! There was a great playground for the kids and we enjoyed a nice long hike as well," writes Sara S. The park includes transportation via ferry, which creates a mini-adventure for children.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several campgrounds feature accessible piers for young anglers. "Most of the kids in the group tried to fish, some for the first time. We used worms and cut up hot dogs. We caught 7 fish in the short amount of time we were there before dinner," reports a ranger visiting Geneva Wilderness Area.
Tips from RVers
No-hookup tent-focused sites: Most campgrounds near Longwood primarily accommodate tent camping with few RV amenities. At Mullet Lake Park, "You do have to walk to the sites but it's no more than 100 yards from the parking lot. There isn't a whole lot of tree coverage in the campground, some sites are well shaded however."
Parking limitations: Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. A camper at Gemini Springs Campground notes, "I'm not sure if you can 'drive' to the campsite. None of the other campers had their cars near, and with the set up of Campsites, it's unclear where you would reasonably park."
Water access consideration: RV campers seeking boat access should consider specific parks. "I think this would be a nice place to camp if you were planning to spend a couple days boating on the St. John's. It's got a boat ramp and the sites are not far from the ramp," notes Billy A. about Mullet Lake Park.
