Best Glamping near Merritt Island, FL

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo houses some of the most distinctive glamping accommodations near Merritt Island, with luxury safari tents, yurts, and glamping sites that provide an elevated outdoor experience. Located approximately 90 minutes from Merritt Island, this 1,700-acre dude ranch offers climate-controlled glamping options with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and full linens. Orlando/Kissimmee KOA Holiday also features glamping accommodations with modern amenities including air conditioning, kitchenettes, and private patios. Both locations provide full hookups, heated pools, and on-site dining options for a resort-style camping experience without sacrificing comfort. According to a camper, "Westgate River Ranch has so much to do. Rodeos, food, putt putt, petting zoo and tons more. A great family venue."

The Saturday night rodeo at Westgate River Ranch Resort serves as a centerpiece attraction for glamping guests, complemented by horseback riding, a petting zoo, and rock climbing walls. Lake Kissimmee State Park, located within driving distance of Merritt Island, offers glamping accommodations with scenic water views and wildlife observation opportunities. Visitors regularly spot deer, armadillos, and wild turkeys from their glamping sites. The park maintains a general store with WiFi access, fishing supplies, and essential items. One reviewer highlighted, "We had site 43 which was secluded from neighbors and in full shade. The back of the site opened to an open field and we constantly saw deer walking through the grounds." Glamping pods and canvas tents throughout the region typically require advance reservations, with peak booking periods during winter months when temperatures are mild.

Best Glamping Sites Near Merritt Island, Florida (12)

    1. Manatee Hammock Campground

    35 Reviews
    Sharpes, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 264-5083

    $28 - $39 / night

    "Nice bathroom facilities and showers. Very clean. Laundry 🧺 on site as well. Have a fenced dog area for off leash. Nice pier too. Dogs swam in the water too. Most sites had shade."

    "26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade; beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170), pool and lots"

    2. Joy RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Cocoa, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 631-0305

    "Staff was very nice. Was on site 189. 

    Would recommend!!"

    "The front office staff consistently exudes helpfulness and politeness. Each site is equipped with water hookups, electric connections, and sewage facilities."

    3. Cape Kennedy RV Resort

    14 Reviews
    Mims, FL
    30 miles
    Website

    $77 / night

    "The staff were so helpful welcoming and friendly. Helped us get set up righ for the first time and had loads of time for the kids"

    "Beds were a little uncomfortable, but other than that, everything was great. Bathrooms were clean, staff was great!"

    4. Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Lakeshore, FL
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (863) 696-1112

    $20 / night

    "It was a beautiful location! We had site 43 which was secluded from neighbors and in full shade. The back of the site opened to an open field and we constantly saw deer walking through the grounds."

    "Lake Kissimmee State Park Review This was our first visit to Lake Kissimmee State Park and it was a big surprise."

    5. Orlando/Kissimmee KOA

    28 Reviews
    Kissimmee, FL
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 396-2400

    $45 / night

    "KOA will not assign a specific site until you arrive to checkin, however they will accept requests if you have an area in mind or friends you want to be close to. "

    "Location is right in the heart of things so it is convenient. Not in a wooded area so if you prefer something off the beaten path this would not be for you. We rented a cabin to sleep 8."

    6. Vero Beach Kamp

    15 Reviews
    Sebastian, FL
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (772) 589-5665

    $37 - $69 / night

    "Desperate for a place to pitch our tent rather than spending $$$ for a hotel, we lucked up when we found VBK on The Dyrt."

    "Close to Indian River and the beach. Close to restaurants and groceries. On the highway, but traffic noise is minimal."

    7. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

    12 Reviews
    Kenansville, FL
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (863) 692-1321

    "We were able to fish right off the dock at our site, there was a fit pit and grill, as well as seating outside (each site could be configured differently)."

    "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."

    8. Boggy Creek Resort & RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Flamingo, FL
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 348-2040

    "Boggy Creek RV Resort and Fish Camp Review

    Boggy Creek RV Resort and Fish Camp Is located in Kissimmee, Florida on the edge of East Lake Tohopekaliga."

    "I was able to check in late easily via a lock box and found a great campsite close to clean bathroom/shower facilities. While it was late and dark, the resort seemed very nice and affordable."

    9. River Ranch RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Kenansville, FL
    47 miles
    Website

    "My favorite was the petting farm, so many animals. They offer horse back riding , rock climbing/jump zone for kids, swamp buggy/airboat ride.On Saturday they have a rodeo."

    "There are cute stores to shop at, unique setups at the resort and it was just an awesome experience overall. We will definitely be back in the future!"

    10. Lake Toho RV Resort

    1 Review
    St. Cloud, FL
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 892-8795

    "The location is great for people who are looking to be close to the airport and theme parks. It’s an RV park, but it’s one of the nicer ones I’ve seen."

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Recent Glamping Photos near Merritt Island, FL

6 Photos of 12 Merritt Island Campgrounds


Glamping Reviews near Merritt Island, FL

153 Reviews of 12 Merritt Island Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Orlando/Kissimmee KOA

    Fabricated Camping @ Kissimmee KOA

    Why contemplate leaving the creature comforts of home when you can just haul everything that you love most to a place that provides all of the concrete paved, easy-to-access amenities that you likely have at home in the first place? If you find yourself in this dilemma, no worries, Orlando/ Kissimmee KOA has all of your manufactured outdoor camping needs covered … and what’s perhaps most interesting is that you won’t even have to drive out of the concrete jungle to encounter this experience, in fact, it’s right off a major 4-lane highway (HWY 192).

    So, if you are dreaming of escaping your domesticated life for the thrills of an outdoor camping adventure that will have you appreciating the best of what nature has to offer, then just be forewarned, this is not that place. But if you are simply looking for a change of scenery and want to be near all of the action and attractions here in Central Florida’s ‘Magic City’ and want a different experience than paying overpriced rates at Tiki-hut themed entertainment hotels and relish the idea of dusting off your RV or unpacking your tent in a pseudo nature environment complete with all the astro turf your dog can poop on within a confined, fenced-in setting, then this KOA (and let’s be frank, ANY KOA) has you covered.

    As far as amenities go, it’s a KOA, so there’s going to be more amenities here than you can shake a stick at. These include: heated in-ground medium-sized pool complete with tiled patio, lounge chaise chairs, tables with umbrellas and regular chairs, water-rinsing station, as well as a jacuzzi / spa, propane refilling station, bike rentals, 134’ max length slots, WiFi, pavilion, Kamp K9, firewood for sale, 24 hour laundr-O-mat, picnic tables, community fire pits, on-site market, recreation office, life-size Jenga, designated trash areas, fitness center, playground, dog wash, public bus service, basketball court, EV chargers, jump pad, taxi service back-in and pull-through perfectly paved, level concrete RV sites with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage). There’s even RV sites that are dubbed ‘Deluxe,’ which are larger and come with a paved connected patio.

    No RV? And REALLY don’t want to have an experience that is different than living at home? Even here at this KOA, that’s not a problem, where the proprietors will easily rent you a deluxe cabin, if there is one available. These 1BR or 2BR A/C cooled Deluxe Cabins sleep 4, 6 or 8 people and come with bunk bed set, futon / sofa sleeper and a queen-sized bed along with a private bath and shower, TV with cable offering over 20 channels, some with EV chargers, patio w/ charcoal or gas BBQ grill and fire pit, front porch with patio furniture and chairs, refrigerator, fresh linens, paw pen for the pups and a partial or full kitchen. They even have rustic cabins that are cheaper and don’t come with all the thrills for those that want some degree of ‘roughing’ it, so this means no kitchen and no bathroom or showers, although there is full bed, bunk bed, TV, mini-refrigerator, A/C patio furniture, brick fire pit with cooking grate.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) To continue with the simple, easy-to-access, manufactured experience theme here, for those that grow tired of trying to conjure up that next meal for the kiddos, who are grumbling about making every meal, head on over to any one of these nearby drive-thru windows or curb-side meal offerings: McDonald’s, Panda Express, Applebee’s, Steak ‘n Shake and Wendy’s; (2) If you want to heighten that suburban culinary experience you all have been craving though, I really do rate the silverware-free dining experience that is Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, which is literally just down the road and is actually a lot of fun for the kiddos and adults alike; (3) Should you find yourself in need of anything that you either forgot or may have run out of, then fear not, there’s a Sam’s Club that is in walking distance from this KOA and further south that definitely requires a drive, there’s a Walmart Supercenter; (4) I’ve noticed that this place has SIGNIFICANT discounts if you simply plan in advance – so for example, during the months of March OR April (it’s January now), they’re offering a whopping 25% discount; and (5) If you are looking for a slice of nature’s paradise, then I highly recommend driving a bit north to Wekiwa Springs, where you’ll be able to enjoy one of the most amazing springs in all of Florida where the water is 72 degrees year round.

    Happy Camping!

  • Brandie B.
    Aug. 8, 2020

    Orlando/Kissimmee KOA

    Only place to stay outside of Disney

    This was the perfect location for our touristy vacation! The Orlando Kissimmee KOA Holiday is great park to visit when staying in the Orlando area. Most shopping and restaurants are within a 5-10 minute drive. And all the tourist attractions are within 30 minutes: 

    • Walt Disney World 15 minutes
    • Universal Studios 23 minutes
    • SeaWorld 17 minutes
    • Gatorland  minutes
    • Midevil Times  minutes

    We made our reservations on the app, you could also choose to book online at Koa.com or over the phone. It’s an easy process and you’ll have multiple site options to choose from. Sign up for the Value Kard rewards program if you think you’ll stay more than 3 nights a year, it’ll pay for itself. KOA will not assign a specific site until you arrive to checkin, however they will accept requests if you have an area in mind or friends you want to be close to. 

    This park has 3 types of Motorhome/Camper sites; back-in, pull-through and deluxe patios. They are all full hook-ups(50Amp, water, sewer and cable). They also have deluxe cabins and tent sites available. We were extremely impressed of the amenities the tent sites had. Large tables, chairs around the fire pit and covered kitchen area with sinks and electrical outlets. These are located next to the shower and bath rooms, this makes it very convenient for those quick trips in the middle of the night. They’re also diagonal to the heated pool, sauna, workout room, bike rental area and laundry area. 

    On the other side of the park is a great playground and jump pad. They even have a fenced in dog run and dog wash area. This is a beautiful KOA location and well maintained. We like that the campground is just lit enough at night to walk the dogs after sunset. The lamps look like little Mickey Mouse heads! The staff is friendly and helpful. The camp store is well stocked and kept clean. There is minimal noise from the major road nearby. 

    If you can’t stay at Fort Wilderness on Disney property this is the next best location!!!

  • L O.
    Dec. 14, 2020

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Tent folk: bring earplugs

    Arrived here for a three-night tent stay at spot 153. The campground is easily accessible from the highway, and a breeze to check in. Friendly staff. Dumpsters behind the main office. All roads are one-way counterclockwise. The bathroom and laundry room are about 100 meters from spot 153. Both are clean. There's a nice pavilion overlooking the water inside the eastern loop. There's a good size, fenced-in, leash-free dog park next to the water. The water views are beautiful at sunrise. There's a pier for fishing and just serene eastern observation toward Cape Canaveral. There's a kayak launch ramp as well.

    Spot 153 was perfectly partially shaded, with a mix of sand and grass, and it was level. The only critters seen here are playful squirrels. RV spots can be quite close to each other, but not many of their inhabitants were seen outside during these chilly, mid-December days when the temperature dipped to 40F at night, and high 50's in the day. All spots have electric and picnic table. The water spigot at 153 was about two inches from the ground. Why?

    The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays.

  • Kelsey H.
    Sep. 12, 2021

    Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground

    Peaceful & Beautiful Spot

    We got into this site with a last minute cancellation over Labor Day weekend. It was a beautiful location! We had site 43 which was secluded from neighbors and in full shade. The back of the site opened to an open field and we constantly saw deer walking through the grounds. We also saw many armadillos and turkey! Site had water and electric as well as a fire pit and picnic bench. Each loop has a bathhouse and laundry unit. Sewage dump was clean and easy. Campground also has a general store with some essentials, snacks, WiFi and live bait. There’s water for fishing and a cleaning station, although we didn’t catch anything you could see the fish jumping constantly. There’s plenty of trails and an observation tower. We will be back!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2023

    Kissimmee RV Park

    RV Sardine Can

    If you’re looking for a spot to park your 5th wheel or mobile RV campsite for the night and don’t mind being shoulder to shoulder with likeminded RV campers, then the flatly paved surfaces of Kissimmee RV Park, complete with 193 campsites, might just be for you. While just off the I-4 corridor taking you into Orlando (only 30 or so minutes due north of this location), pet-friendly Kissimmee RV Park offers close proximity to and affordable overnight accommodations near all of the amusement parks (just 6.5 miles away) the Magical City has to offer. 

    As far as amenities go, there’s a handful: recreation hall, full-service kitchen, heated pool, shuffle board court, bingo, horseshoe pits, scattered BBQ grills, spartan restrooms and bath house (although in need of refurbishment), laundry-O-mat, ice machine, free WiFi (but only at rec hall and pool – many people complained that they couldn’t access WiFi while at their sites, but if you read the fine print, that’s not what this place promises), RV storage, dog parks & walking paths, a few scattered gazebos and a propane tank refilling station. Each site comes with its own flat concrete slab that you can call home for the night, accompanied by a lone picnic table and all the typical hook-ups you would expect (30 / 50 electric amp, water, sewage, etc.) along with designated dump sites and an electric charging station as well as small pond. 

    Insider’s tips? Sure, here’s a few: (1) if you are tent camping, apparently Kissimmee RV Park has some sites, but as we were passing through with an RV, I didn’t bother to look, so check this out; (2) Tired of foraging through your cooler or on-board mini-fridge for your next meal? Then there’s no shortage of options being this close to Disney, so while there’s the chain restaurants nearby (Chili’s, Perkin’s, BJ’s, etc.), I recommend a few off-the-beaten places like Fat Boy’s BBQ, Savion’s Place or Capone’s Dinner & Show Theater;(3) Fan of comic books? My family and I stumbled across Coliseum of Comics Kissimmee and it was a nice diversion for a few hours; and (4) Want to go back in time for a nice meal and theater?! Then look no further than Medieval Times, which is literally just down the road! 

    Happy Camping!

  • T
    Jun. 22, 2020

    Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

    River Ranch RV Resort

    You can get a RV site through Westgate which is more of a field or through River Ranch RV Resort which has full hook-ups. 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, there was a fit pit and grill, as well as seating outside (each site could be configured differently). At Westgate River Ranch (walking distance from our site but still got a golf cart) we went to the rodeo on Saturday night, did a swamp buggy ride, skeet shooting, petting zoo and rode a mechanical bull... and there was still more we could have done but ran out of time since we still wanted to relax some 🙃 If you're looking for a great site with tons of activities available River Ranch RV Resort is the place for you!

  • L
    Apr. 23, 2021

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Watched Space launch here

    We were here for 6 days. Watched Space X Crew 2 launch today. Good view across the water. Campground is nice. Stayed in Site 125. Plenty of room for our 2 golden retriever dogs. Some sites larger than others and some more close than we like. Full hookups. Checking was easy. Have some street lights. Nice bathroom facilities and showers. Very clean. Laundry 🧺 on site as well. Have a fenced dog area for off leash. Nice pier too. Dogs swam in the water too. Most sites had shade. Good central location for sites around to see. Saw a few manatees, crabs, fish and house shoe crabs too around the pier. Definitely would come again.

  • D
    Jun. 17, 2020

    Vero Beach Kamp

    Resting up for the Keys

    Desperate for a place to pitch our tent rather than spending $$$ for a hotel, we lucked up when we found VBK on The Dyrt. This quiet campground lined with moss covered oaks, palm trees and long leaf pines was a dream. They are set up mostly for RVs but have a few campsites. Our primitive campsite was at the far back. Large, Quiet, shady and near a water source. We ended up sharing the site with another very pleasant family. Heated pool, nice restroom and laundry facilities. I didn’t have a chance to check out the activities room with bocce ball, shuttle board and horseshoes. It was great being able to camp on our way to Bahia Honda State Park. No hotel for us!

  • Jorge F.
    Mar. 21, 2025

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Small, clean and beautiful water views

    26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade; beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170), pool and lots of parks within 30 minutes of Manatee Hammock.  Downside is freight train noise every night in the early morning hours and traffic noise, specially with campsites near the busy US-1.  Also, no fires unless you bring your own fire pit and must be at least 6" off the ground.


Guide to Merritt Island

Manatee Hammock Campground offers waterfront camping on the Indian River with direct views of Kennedy Space Center. Located in Titusville just 7 miles from Merritt Island, this county-operated facility provides full-hookup sites with 50-amp service and concrete pads. Winter temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to upper 70s during the day, with summer bringing increased humidity and temperatures often exceeding 90°F.

What to do

Watch rocket launches: Manatee Hammock Campground provides premier viewing locations for Kennedy Space Center launches from across the Indian River. "We saw two rocket launches while here," shares Dave D., who stayed at Manatee Hammock Campground.

Fish from dedicated docks: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for fishing without a boat. "The dock is also the perfect place to catch some redfish or snook," notes Wendy W. about the fishing opportunities at Manatee Hammock.

Explore wildlife viewing areas: Lake Kissimmee State Park features observation towers and trails where visitors can spot native Florida wildlife. "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," explains Denise from Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground.

What campers like

Proximity to attractions: Many campsites serve as convenient bases for exploring the Space Coast. "This place has a woodsy feel but it's right off a main road. Really close to the Space Center and easy access to SR528 and about an hour from the theme parks," explains Doug S. from Manatee Hammock Campground.

Dog-friendly facilities: Multiple campgrounds near Merritt Island welcome pets with dedicated amenities. "It is so nice, right on the Indian river. There is a large fenced Dog Park on the riverfront," mentions Dennis J. about the pet accommodations at Manatee Hammock.

Diverse camping options: Beyond traditional campsites, glamping close to Merritt Island, Florida includes luxury alternatives with varying comfort levels. "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!" reports Eric from Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.

What you should know

Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping experiences year-round. "We stayed for two nights hoping to see the space shuttle launch. We were unable to since it was postponed but the ladies at the front desk were very nice. They allowed a late check out just in case the shuttle did launch," reports Cynthia D. from Joy RV Park.

Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from transportation corridors. "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays," warns L O. about Manatee Hammock.

Site selection importance: Campground layouts vary significantly, even within the same facility. "This campground has a split personality. The west side has nice wide concrete sites, the east side is on dirt and gravel and not so nice. When I made my reservation I missed the pick your site($30 add on?), but given the difference between the two sides, it would have been worth it," advises Mark S. from Cape Kennedy RV Resort.

Tips for camping with families

Wildlife observation activities: Schedule morning or evening wildlife walks for optimal viewing. "We had site 43 which was secluded from neighbors and in full shade. The back of the site opened to an open field and we constantly saw deer walking through the grounds," notes one reviewer about Lake Kissimmee State Park.

Kid-friendly amenities: Several glamping options near Merritt Island feature specific family-oriented facilities. "Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc. Late arrival possible. Good WiFi and laundry facilities and even a gym. Very close to Disney world and to restaurants or supermarkets," shares L B. about Orlando/Kissimmee KOA.

Entertainment options: Family-focused resorts offer structured activities. "River ranch has so much to do. Rodeos, food, putt putt, petting zoo and tons more. A great family venue," describes one visitor to Westgate River Ranch Resort.

Tips from RVers

Site dimensions: RV campers should confirm site specifics before booking. "26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade; beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170), pool and lots of parks within 30 minutes," explains Jorge F. about the layout at Manatee Hammock.

Hookup configurations: Verify available connections before arrival. "Sites are back-to-back & very close side-by-side, but pretty with mature trees. Bathrooms need updating," notes Suzanne B. about Cape Kennedy RV Resort.

Stay duration flexibility: Some campgrounds offer special rates for extended stays. "We booked last minute in January for an overnight stay with a 25ft RV. They were able to accommodate us. Majority of guests are here for long term. They all made us newbies feel very welcome. Paid 55$ for full hook-up," shares Annabel F. about her experience at Manatee Hammock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Merritt Island, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Merritt Island, FL is Manatee Hammock Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 35 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Merritt Island, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 glamping camping locations near Merritt Island, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.