Mid Florida camping options offer climate-controlled yurt accommodations in addition to traditional campsites. Located in the subtropical region with elevations ranging from 100-345 feet, Mid Florida maintains year-round temperatures between 50-95°F. Summer months bring afternoon thunderstorms while winter provides mild, dry camping conditions ideal for outdoor exploration.
What to do
Kayak and canoe launches: Wekiwa Springs State Park provides water access with equipment rentals. "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," reports Caitlyn P., who also noted wildlife sightings during their stay.
Rocket launch viewing: Manatee Hammock Campground offers prime viewing locations for Kennedy Space Center launches. "This quaint little park is so delightful. With so many gorgeous water birds and trees. The park sits off the Indian River and is the perfect place to catch a launch," shares Wendy W., who appreciated the park's waterfront location.
Freshwater fishing: Highland Park Fish Camp maintains a stocked catch-and-release pond for beginners and 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," notes Jeanene A., who visited the camp multiple times over eight years.
What campers like
Year-round swimming: The 72-degree natural springs at Wekiwa Springs State Park remain constant temperature regardless of season. "Really nice campground with all the amenities, showers, water, and power hookups for rv's, or in my case to charge my phone and camera," explains Zackari S., who recommends booking well in advance due to popularity.
Lakefront yurt camping: Lake Louisa State Park Campground offers yurt accommodations with lake views. "Having stayed at Lake Louisa State Park serval times we've enjoyed very spacious sites with beautiful views and an exceptionally clean property. The multiple lake views where so peaceful, I think the beach was my favorite by far," shares Jackie B.
Transportation options: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground provides internal bus service and boat transportation to theme parks. "We really love camping here. The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. The bath houses are immaculate. There is bus service throughout the campground with bus and boat service to the Parks," explains Darcy S.
What you should know
Early arrival recommended: Weekend visitors should plan morning arrivals at popular parks. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," advises Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Space constraints: RV sites at some parks have limited maneuvering room. "Our neighbor across from us had to move his truck and several neighbors were helping direct us into our spot. Everyone we spoke with complained about the lack of space to get a big rv into these spot," reports Samantha O. about Fort Wilderness.
Noise considerations: Manatee Hammock Campground experiences railroad noise at night. "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays," reports a camper who stayed in December.
Tips for camping with families
Pool alternatives: Lake Louisa State Park offers a beach area for swimming when pools become crowded. "This stage park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing," notes Cyndi B., who stayed at site #43 with water and electric hookups.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Manatee Hammock provides a fenced waterfront dog park. "There is a large fenced Dog Park on the riverfront. Near Titusville, FL. You can see Kennedy Space Center across the water," says Dennis J.
Kid-specific activities: Orlando/Kissimmee KOA features playgrounds, pools, and activity areas. "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," writes L B., who appreciated the child-friendly environment.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup locations: The Orlando/Kissimmee KOA provides concrete pads with fire pits. "Great pull through concrete patio with fire pit!! We had a issues with our water a few days ago, so we had to use the shower at the facility and it was good," reports Loni W., who stopped overnight during a longer trip.
Cell service considerations: Thousand Trails Orlando has limited cell reception in some areas. "Cell signals: This park is in Clermont, FL and it's not a huge town but decent sized town. There isn't great cell service. The park is further from a tower and there are so many RVers in the area that don't count towards the population, it becomes a bandwidth issue," explains Laura H.
Site selection importance: At Thousand Trails Orlando, sites vary significantly. "The older sites could use some resurfacing. The sites are large enough and have most have full hook ups. Not many trees for shade, but it is in Florida so that is to be expected," notes Brenda L., who preferred sites along the outside rim of the park.