Lake Kissimmee State Park, located approximately 35 miles northwest of Merritt Island, serves as one of the central equestrian campgrounds in the region. The park contains diverse terrain with pine flatwoods and oak hammocks where wildlife observation opportunities abound. Temperatures average 72°F year-round with summer highs reaching the 90s and winter lows occasionally dropping to the 40s, creating varied camping conditions throughout the seasons.
What to do
Wildlife observation tours: Lake Kissimmee State Park offers multiple opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife. "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," reports Barbara J.
Biking trails: The network of trails at Lake Kissimmee State Park provides excellent cycling opportunities on varying terrain. "Beautiful shaded sites and long biking trails," notes Alexandra E., making this an ideal destination for cyclists seeking exercise while exploring equestrian campgrounds near Merritt Island.
Airboat adventures: For water exploration near equestrian facilities, consider booking local airboat tours. "We went on an airboat ride. It was great," shares Susan K. from her experience at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. Similar tours operate near several horse-friendly campgrounds in the region.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Lake Kissimmee State Park receives consistent praise for site layout. "This site was very large, mostly level, with beautiful trees surrounding the site and great privacy," writes Denise. Another camper adds, "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained facilities enhance the camping experience. "Like all state parks the bathrooms were spotless and rivaled those of a Marriott," notes Perry J. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. This attention to cleanliness extends to other amenities, with Lauren W. adding, "Extremely clean restrooms, great washing machine and dryer, clean place to wash dishes!"
Weekend entertainment: Structured activities provide additional recreation options beyond trail riding. "We really enjoyed the rodeo," mentions Susan K. about Westgate River Ranch Resort. Family-friendly entertainment complements the equestrian focus at several campgrounds near Merritt Island.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be challenging in more remote equestrian areas. "Cell service is practically non existent in the park and within 10 miles from the park," warns Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. Another camper confirms, "We had no cell service, which made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work."
Transportation considerations: Some larger properties require additional planning for getting around. "You need a golf cart or bikes to get around," advises Vikki L. about Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. Golf cart rentals, while convenient, can add significant cost, with one visitor noting they cost "$60 a day."
Limited services: Basic amenities may require advance planning. "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. Campers should prepare for limited access to supplies at most equestrian facilities near Merritt Island.
Tips for camping with families
Diverse activities for children: Beyond horseback riding, families appreciate varied recreation options. "We did a swamp buggy ride, skeet shooting, petting zoo and rode a mechanical bull," shares Tina S. about her stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. Multiple activity choices keep children engaged throughout extended stays.
Educational opportunities: Several equestrian camps offer cultural learning experiences. "The idea of cowboys in Florida was unexpected, but added a unique element to the park," states Sara S. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. Historical demonstrations provide context about Florida's ranching heritage.
Accessible amenities: Facilities accommodate diverse visitor needs. "We had the handicapped site, plenty of room, wonderful neighbors," reports Lauren W. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. Handicap-accessible sites typically offer concrete pads and proximity to restrooms.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV facilities differ significantly between equestrian campgrounds. "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," explains Tina S. Sites at Vero Beach Equestrian Club feature electrical hookups and water connections for RVs.
Low hanging branches: Tree canopy creates challenges for larger rigs. "If you have a tall rv low hanging branches in the camp area might be an issue," cautions Corey K. Another camper advises, "Be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in." Most sites can accommodate standard-height vehicles without modification.
Site surface types: Surface materials vary between equestrian campgrounds. "The spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells. Spot 9 is fully concrete," notes Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. This information helps RVers prepare appropriate leveling equipment based on site assignments.
