Florida's Okeechobee region sits at the northern edge of the Everglades ecosystem, where fresh water from the Kissimmee River flows into Lake Okeechobee at just 12 feet above sea level. The area features diverse wetland habitats including cypress swamps, open prairies, and palm hammocks. Campers can expect high humidity year-round with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter months bring milder conditions in the 70s with less rainfall.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park offers exceptional dark sky viewing as Florida's only designated International Dark Sky Place. "This is the place to stargaze. Many here taking pictures with their telescopes. We've been here four times, and definitely return," notes Lauren W. in her review of Kissimmee Prairie Preserve.
Wildlife viewing: The natural wetland ecosystem supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "We saw wild turkeys, deer, and even heard wild boars at night going through the campground," shares Jessica S. about her camping experience at Kissimmee Prairie. Visitors can spot everything from wading birds to alligators on nature trails.
Safari experiences: For a unique wildlife adventure, the West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA offers proximity to over 1,000 safari animals. "The lions waking you up in the morning is really pretty cool," reports Jan H., with another camper adding, "We are used to hearing birds and frogs when we camp, but here it is lions...and other noises I was not able to identify."
Water recreation: With Lake Okeechobee and numerous waterways, fishing and boating are major activities. "Nice pools. Friendly staff. Plenty outdoor activities possible. Lake Okeechobee very nearby," mentions L B. in their review of Okeechobee KOA. Many campgrounds offer direct water access for kayaking and fishing.
What campers like
Remote tranquility: The isolation of certain campgrounds appeals to those seeking quiet. "One of our favorite state parks in Florida. Quiet and remote. Be sure to fuel up and have plenty of groceries," advises Annell N. about Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park. The distance from urban areas creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers highlight the maintenance standards at campgrounds. "The campground is pretty much the cleanest we had stayed in yet!" notes one reviewer about Road Runner Travel Resort. Another camper mentions, "Very clean bathhouse during the week" at Brighton RV Resort.
Waterfront sites: Camping alongside water features ranks high in camper preferences. "We were able to be right on the water, very nice," shares Liz M. about Phipps Park Campground. The scenic water settings create memorable experiences with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Resort-style amenities: Many glamping locations offer extensive facilities beyond basic camping. "This KOA is the best one we've ever stayed at. It's an actual resort with a golf course in the middle. You get all the same amenities at a usual KOA with bonus ones like poolside food delivery, golf tee times, tennis and pickle ball tournaments, bingo nights," describes Jennifer R. about Okeechobee KOA.
What you should know
Diverse accommodation options: Glamping in Okeechobee, Florida spans from platform tents to luxury cabins. "The glamping tents were just that - a tent built onto a platform," explains Jeff P. at Phipps Park, where canvas structures are positioned among water lilies.
Remote locations require planning: Many campgrounds sit far from services. "Expect a long travel to this remote site. It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways," warns David G. about Kissimmee Prairie Preserve. Bring all necessary supplies.
Seasonal considerations: Florida's climate affects camping comfort. Summer months (May-September) bring intense heat, humidity, and mosquitoes. "It was literally swarming with mosquitos. Pulled out 3 thermacells but the swarms were so bad they didn't even touch it," reports Daniel G. about one summer experience.
Advance reservations essential: Popular glamping sites book quickly, especially during winter. Many locations open reservations 6-12 months in advance, with winter being peak season when northern visitors seek Florida's warmer temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo provides numerous family attractions. "This place is amazing! So much to do! Kids, dogs, hubby & myself all are having an amazing time and will be returning next year," shares Anne M. Another camper noted, "Group of friends and family decided to stay on this gem, I was pleasantly surprised! Clean bathrooms and showers. Lots of amenities for kids like mini golf, zip lining and mechanical bull riding."
Educational wildlife experiences: Structured nature programs help children engage with Florida ecosystems. Many preserves offer ranger-led activities focusing on local wildlife and habitats. The proximity to exotic animals makes glamping in Okeechobee especially memorable for children.
Swimming options: Pools provide relief from Florida heat. "Nice pools. Friendly staff," mentions L B. about KOA Campground Okeechobee. Road Runner Travel Resort offers "a large pool" that families frequently mention as a highlight, especially during hot summer months.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important when camping with children. "Be aware that there's a LOT of loose sand. So even on a mountain bike you'll have to walk now and then," advises one camper about trail conditions at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Road Runner Travel Resort offers various site types with significant differences. "Most spots are shaded. It seems like 75% of spots are full timers and 50% work. The middle of the campground closer to the pool seems to be for shorter term guests," explains one RVer who visited. Site preference varies based on shade, proximity to amenities, and levelness.
Hookup considerations: Electric reliability varies between campgrounds. "30amp breaker overheated and tripped 3 times during our 7 night stay," reports one camper at Brighton RV Resort. Many sites offer 50-amp service for larger rigs, though this should be confirmed when booking.
Access limitations: Not all roads to campgrounds accommodate large RVs. "It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways," notes one reviewer about accessing more remote locations. Research road conditions before arriving with larger rigs.
Resort-style RV options: Premium RV experiences are available at several locations. "River Ranch RV next door is a beautiful place with fantastic spots. We stayed in spot 323 which had its own swing and fireplace. Our 37 ft rig fit perfectly," shares Andoni G. about accommodations near Westgate River Ranch.
