Equestrian camping near Melbourne, Florida offers facilities for horse owners within a 90-minute drive radius. Central Florida's prairie landscape provides flat terrain with elevation typically under 100 feet above sea level, creating ideal conditions for riders. Water levels fluctuate seasonally with summer bringing higher precipitation and occasional flooding on trails and campsites.
What to do
Wildlife observation tours: Lake Kissimmee State Park provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities from its observation tower. "Lots of small trails to explore and tall watch tower climb for observation," notes Stephanie G., while another camper mentions seeing "Deers all around even among the campsites."
Star gazing sessions: Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is Florida's only certified dark sky viewing location. "The night sky was pretty dark but I couldn't see the Milky Way (there was a half moon during my stay). I must be spoiled by the night sky out west," shares Monte W. For serious astronomers, the park has a designated campground just for stargazing.
Historic experiences: Explore Florida's cowboy heritage at Lake Kissimmee State Park. "The idea of cowboys in Florida was unexpected, but added a unique element to the park," writes Sara S. The park's Cow Camp recreates 1870s Florida cattle country life with demonstrations available October through May.
Trail riding access: Horse owners can enjoy trails directly from their campsites at several locations. Trailer parking is available at designated equestrian campsites with additional facilities for horse care during your stay.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground gets high marks for site separation. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit," writes Stephanie G. Another camper adds, "Our site was very large, mostly level, with beautiful trees surrounding the site and great privacy."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high in visitor reviews. "Bathhouse was clean each time we used it. Park rangers were friendly each time we saw them," notes Lorilee S. Another reviewer mentions, "Extremely clean restrooms, great washing machine and dryer, clean place to wash dishes!"
Natural wildlife encounters: Proximity to wildlife is a highlight for many. "Tons of deer all over, all the time," reports one camper. Barbara J. shares an exceptional experience: "While sitting in our screen gazebo, I was awed by the passing of a male panther about 25 yards from our campsite. Wild turkeys visited us daily to hang out by a fallen tree near our site."
Family-friendly activities: Beyond trail riding, campgrounds offer additional recreation. One visitor at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve notes, "The trails were well maintained and clearly planned to create a unique experience, while being just challenging enough to feel like a real adventure."
What you should know
Remote locations require planning: Many equestrian campgrounds are far from amenities. At Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, "Expect a long travel to this remote site. It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways," advises David G. Another camper emphasizes, "Definitely bring everything that you need because there is nothing around for many miles."
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty or nonexistent. "Cell service is practically non existent in the park and within 10 miles from the park," cautions Corey K. Another camper mentions canceling a planned stay because they "needed cell service for remote work."
Water levels affect trails: Florida's weather patterns impact trail conditions. "Most of the trails are still flooded. Our rainy season just ended and we've had a lot of rain towards the end of it," reports Lorilee S. Check with park offices about current conditions before planning rides.
Varied hookup options: Not all sites offer full hookups. One reviewer notes, "Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station."
Tips for camping with families
Pack plenty of supplies: Due to remote locations, bring everything needed for your stay. "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.
Consider special youth programs: Lake Kissimmee State Park offers educational activities. "We took our two grandchildren, and they had a lot of fun!" shares Lauren W. The park's junior ranger program provides educational opportunities about Florida's natural habitats and wildlife.
Rent transportation: At Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, golf carts help navigate the property. "Bring your bikes as everything is a bit of a walk from the campground," suggests Ilena R., while another visitor recommends "renting a golf cart, though expensive at $60 a day."
Plan for varied entertainment: Beyond horseback activities, look for additional recreation. "Westgate River Ranch Resort is an awesome destination with camping, skeet shooting range, rodeo, petting zoo, mini golf, swamp buggy rides, swimming, dining, lodge and much more," writes Christy C.
Tips from RVers
Assess site dimensions carefully: Some equestrian sites have limited space or obstacles. "Be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in," warns one RVer. Another notes, "The spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells. Spot 9 is fully concrete."
Compare neighboring facilities: When staying at Vero Beach Equestrian Club, consider that some equestrian areas have limited amenities compared to standard RV parks. While the club offers 30-amp electric hookups and water connections specifically for horse owners, facilities vary between properties.
Choose sites strategically: Some locations offer premium waterfront options. "We stayed on a waterfront site at River Ranch RV Resort and it was perfect! We were able to fish right off the dock at our site," explains Tina S.
Schedule around events: Saturday night rodeos at Westgate River Ranch Resort draw crowds. "We really enjoyed the rodeo," shares Susan K. Plan to arrive early on rodeo days for better parking and site access.
