Central Florida offers several quality camping options around Nalcrest. The region sits amid a chain of lakes in the state's interior plateau, with elevations ranging between 100-150 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally drop below 40°F, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Tubing at Kelly Park: Kelly Rock Springs Campground provides direct access to a crystal-clear spring run perfect for floating. "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," noted one camper at Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Airboat adventures: Several campgrounds offer access to local airboat tours. "We did the air boat ride and it was a fun experience," commented a visitor to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, adding that it provided an excellent way to explore the wetlands ecosystem.
Hiking trails: The region features multiple marked trails through diverse ecosystems. "Beautiful shaded sites and long biking/trails," reported one visitor about Lake Kissimmee State Park, while another mentioned "Lots of hiking trails and some wildlife. Deers all around even among the campsites."
Fishing opportunities: Lakefront camping sites offer direct fishing access. "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," shared a camper from Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit. Bathrooms were clean," noted one camper about Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Old Florida atmosphere: "This is an absolutely beautiful and relaxing spot... surrounded with gorgeous moss covered oak trees all around the campsites," reported a visitor to Coleman Landing at Shady Oaks, highlighting the natural setting.
Wildlife viewing: "Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther!" exclaimed one enthusiastic camper about their experience at Highlands Hammock State Park.
Clean facilities: "The bath house was extremely clean and showers are really spacious and private," reported a visitor to Resort at Canopy Oaks, noting the quality of the amenities.
What you should know
Limited cell service: "Be aware that we had no cell service (this actually made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work)," cautioned a visitor to Lake Kissimmee State Park. Several campgrounds in rural areas have spotty reception.
Seasonal crowding: "The park was dead, but still amazing. Everything was open, and we had most of the resort to ourselves," noted a summer visitor to Resort at Canopy Oaks, while multiple reviews indicate winter months see significantly higher occupancy rates.
Varying shade coverage: "Since it's a new resort and the trees are new there is absolutely no shade! It can get extremely hot," warned a camper about Resort at Canopy Oaks, a consideration during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Reservation requirements: "Holiday weekends are insane and busy. Get reservations," advised a visitor to Highlands Hammock State Park. Most established campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during winter.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: "We went for the 4th of July weekend and there were so many different activities to do and see. There's even a clubhouse for people of all ages with many games and activities," shared a family visiting Resort at Canopy Oaks.
Weekend entertainment: "We really enjoyed the rodeo," mentioned a camper at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, which offers scheduled weekend activities. Another noted, "Chip and dale walk around to everyone. They ask that you don't leave your spot and they will come to you."
Kid-friendly swimming: "The pool is a nice size pool with a small water slide. There is a splash area in the back for small kids," reported a visitor to Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, highlighting water recreation options.
Protected camping areas: "Like all state parks the bathrooms were spotless and rivaled those of a Marriott. We enjoyed the common areas, the observation deck and the hiking," noted a family visiting Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: "We were on the inside of the loop on #4. Since the pandemic spots at most state park have been few and far between so we have become way less particular and simply take what we can get at most parks," advised an RVer at Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Hookup variations: "Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station. The spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells. Spot 9 is fully concrete," noted a visitor describing Lake Kissimmee State Park's facilities.
Navigating tight spaces: "My only problem with wilderness camping. There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your rv into the spot," cautioned an RVer at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, adding "Our neighbor across from us had to move his truck and several neighbors were helping direct us into our spot."
Weather considerations: "Summer brings hot, humid conditions with regular afternoon thunderstorms, while winter is the peak season with milder temperatures and larger crowds," reported a seasonal RVer, suggesting specific timing considerations for comfortable camping.
