Glamping experiences near Grand Island, Florida include high-end accommodations in natural settings with modern conveniences. While many facilities provide luxury tents with proper bedding and climate control, others offer upgraded cabins and yurts with private outdoor spaces. The region surrounding Grand Island sits at the crossroads of several Florida ecosystems, where pine forests meet spring-fed waterways at elevations typically under 100 feet above sea level.
What to do
Kayaking on crystal waters: Highland Park Fish Camp offers access to rivers and lakes for paddling adventures. "You can rent a pontoon boat, bass boat for a half or full day and explore the rivers and lakes connected to the camp. Freshwater fishing anywhere along here is just amazing! Lots of wildlife including manatee, shorebirds, bears and more can be seen," shares Jeanene A.
Hiking through varied terrain: Silver Springs State Park Campground maintains extensive trail systems through natural Florida landscapes. "From glass bottom boat tours to kayaking to camping Wildlife. Hiking food. alligators monkeys Birds beautiful Springs and River. Definitely a top 10," notes Noah R.
Swimming in natural springs: The region's spring-fed swimming areas maintain constant 72-degree temperatures year-round. "Wekiwa was an amazing place to camp and spend our weekend. The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife," explains Jenn B.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Lake Louisa State Park Campground provides generous sites away from crowds. "This is a great location to get away from everything, without going far. It has nice, spread out spots, and plenty of activities if you are outdoorsy," reports Joe R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region hosts diverse Florida wildlife in natural habitats. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Saw lost of animals. Everyone was very nice!" exclaims Caitlyn P.
Accessibility for mobility challenges: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers accommodations for visitors with physical limitations. "Being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking. Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!" shares Lauren W.
What you should know
Seasonal crowd management: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns Hannah S.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between glamping locations. "Spring break week and this was our only option where we needed to be. NO internet and phone service so spotty that hotspot was useless," notes S E. at Highland Park Fish Camp.
Reservation requirements: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground demands advance planning for glamping close to Grand Island, Florida. "Checkin: we drove up to a gate where they asked us our name and then drove into the checkin area. We never had to get out of our car to checkin," reports Samantha O.
Tips for camping with families
Free fishing opportunities: Several locations provide no-cost fishing options for children. "There is a free catch and release pond that is kept well stocked and a great place for the kids or beginners to learn how to fish," explains Jeanene A. about Highland Park Fish Camp.
Accessible swimming areas: Lake Waldena Resort provides water recreation suitable for various ages. "Amazing staff and owners, free to use kayaks and water sports, my son learned how to ride a bicycle for the first time today with one of their bicycles! The lake was really a joy to swim on, the kids were in it all day," shares Dayanis P.
Planned activities for children: Some glamping facilities organize regular family programs. "The sing along was fun. Chip and dale walk around to everyone. they ask that you don't leave your spot and they will come to you and really they do. They stopped at every spot to take pictures," notes Samantha O.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV glamping sites vary significantly in size and amenities. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees. A very clean park," shares Lauren W.
Navigation challenges: Camp roads may present difficulties for larger rigs. "My only problem with wilderness camping. There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your rv into the spot. There is plenty of room between your rv and your neighbor next to you but not a lot of room across from your spot," cautions Samantha O.
Rental opportunities: Thousand Trails Orlando provides glamping alternatives for those without equipment. "This resort is impeccable with newly updated bath houses, laundry facilities, 2 pools, playground, camp store, mail room, pickle ball and tennis courts, new basketball court and dock to launch kayaks, boats or fish from," describes Brandie B.
