Cabin camping near Ona, Florida offers options for visitors seeking wooded accommodations within a rural region of central Florida. The area sits at approximately 75 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate that brings warm winters and hot, humid summers. Seasonal water level changes in local rivers affect camping conditions and access to water-based activities.
What to do
Shark teeth hunting: At Thousand Trails Peace River, visitors can search for prehistoric fossils along the riverbanks. "I found a ton of shark teeth," reports one camper. The resort provides wire mesh baskets from the office to aid in fossil hunting expeditions.
Biking trails: The region contains several parks with cycling options from paved roads to off-road paths. "There are bike rentals I have taken advantage of, plenty of walking trails, and you can rent airboats," notes a visitor at Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park.
Kayaking: Multiple waterways provide paddling opportunities for cabin campers. "We stopped in to rent kayaks not realizing that they also had sites for camping and RVs. We enjoyed our 3 hour kayak trip," mentions one visitor who later stayed overnight in a cabin.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The parks near Ona offer numerous opportunities to observe Florida's native species. "There are Alligators along the River banks and in the woods," notes a camper at Peace River. Another visitor at Hardee Lakes Park adds, "Trail system is great from dirt paths to boardwalks to cut straight through the woods."
Peaceful setting: Many reviewers value the quiet environment at these parks. "Lots to do and see in the park and it is so peaceful. I will be back over and over again," writes a camper at Pioneer Park. The more secluded cabin sites provide respite from busier camping sections.
Water access: Cabins with proximity to lakes or rivers rank highly with visitors. "Primitive sites were $20 a night at time of writing. I was excited to discover all these primitive sites with water are right on the lake," reports a Hardee Lakes visitor who enjoyed the lakefront location.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Winter brings higher occupancy rates at cabin facilities. "This park is clean, it's the midsized Thousand Trails Park in Florida. Peace River is really pretty, very green and has a wooded section, a tropical section, and a flood section," notes one reviewer who also warns, "Make sure you have a Clam or some kind of outdoor shade with a big screen because there are a lot of mosquitos in the evenings."
Limited amenities: Most cabin rentals require bringing your own supplies. "Bath house was clean and in good working order. Natural trees providing privacy between lots," notes a reviewer at Little Manatee River State Park Campground, though campers should prepare for basic facilities.
Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping comfort. "Beware of heat, bring plenty of water. Don't depend on water pumps," warns a visitor at Palmetto Ridge, emphasizing the importance of preparation for the subtropical conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer programming specifically for younger visitors. "Great place with kids. Camping next to the river with our adult kids and the grandkids, good bicycle paths walking trails, canoeing fishing and actually quite in the evenings on the eastern side of the grounds," notes a Peace River camper.
Safety awareness: Parents should monitor children near water features. "Watch for snakes in heavy cover areas and if it has been raining avoid low areas. There is a place to get water but I chose not to drink it.... No swimming anywhere in park (yes there are gators)," cautions a Pioneer Park visitor.
Site selection: Families benefit from choosing cabin locations strategically. "Our site was 10 and we loved the privacy of the nature between every campsite along those areas for bigger rigs. The River is really nice for canoeing as well as for fishing and nature views," notes a reviewer at Little Manatee River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site utilities: RVers using cabin facilities should note electrical limitations. "Watch the electricity during high usage the voltage drop, ours dropped to 108v for a couple hours, i choose to run the gen during that time," mentions a Peace River visitor discussing power fluctuations.
Road conditions: Access to some cabin areas requires careful navigation. "There are a few paved roads but others are not. It had just rained a lot due to Hurricane Eta and there are huge potholes. So go slow!!!!" advises a camper at Peace River who selected a back-in site with full hookups.
