Camping sites near Orlando, Florida lie mainly in flat, sandy terrain with sparse pine forests and wetlands at elevations under 100 feet. Temperatures often reach above 90°F from June through September with high humidity. Winter camping brings more comfortable 60-70°F days with occasional cold fronts dropping temperatures into the 40s. Many campgrounds feature retention ponds or small lakes that serve as wildlife viewing areas.
What to do
Kayaking on multiple lakes: At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, visitors can access several bodies of water for paddling. "We were easily able to roll our Kayaks to Dixie lake from our campsite," notes one camper, who adds that "there is also a cute hidden lake called Bear Lake that you can bike or drive to and even put in your kayak or electric boat on this more remote lake."
Wildlife viewing: Moss Park Campground offers excellent opportunities to see Florida wildlife within city limits. "Deer roam happily around and your wake up call in the morning is courtesy of feisty Sandhill Cranes calling back and forth," shares one visitor. The park maintains multiple hiking trails for wildlife observation.
Resort amenities close to attractions: Thousand Trails Orlando combines camping with extensive facilities while staying near theme parks. "They have 2 Pools, 1 Hot Tub, Mini Golf, Tennis Courts, Pickle Ball Courts, Shuffle Board, Club House, Mail Room, Camp Store, A small Lake with Kayak rental, Alligators, Sand Hill Cranes, Tortoises," explains one detailed review, noting it's "only 30 minutes from most of the Orlando theme parks."
What campers like
Peaceful settings near busy areas: Moss Park Campground provides tranquility despite its proximity to Orlando. "This is a small but nice park, with friendly and helpful staff. It is a little oasis in Orlando, and will forget that you are in the city," writes one reviewer. The park features water on three sides with gates that close at night.
Springs access: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground attracts visitors for its crystal-clear water. "We ended up here on a trip to Orlando because we just needed a bit of 'nature.' We were so pleased with our site larger size, well maintained, geared towards RVs but good for tent camping as well," shares one camper. The park offers respite from Orlando's commercial atmosphere.
Disney-themed camping: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground delivers a complete Disney experience with camping convenience. "I really felt like I was at a campground and not at a Disney resort," one visitor mentions. "The area is wooded and quiet with bathrooms off to one side and laundry facilities on the other side."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Many springs get extremely busy during peak times. At Wekiwa Springs State Park, "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns one visitor.
Site selection matters: At Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, the campground layout affects your experience. "At the tent sites you are not allowed to have campfires which is kind of a bummer. The sites are on a slight slope that goes down to the lake," notes one camper.
Reservation requirements: Many Orlando-area campgrounds fill quickly, especially during winter months. "Book ahead if you can," recommends a Wekiwa Springs visitor who adds, "We were staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance."
Weather challenges: Florida's climate affects camping comfort. "We had gotten to this park and was assigned a spot. When we got to our site there was already someone parked in it...The new site they gave us was an 'upgrade'. So many roots through it, no way level, sewer was uphill," explains a camper at Tropical Palms, highlighting how rain can impact sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Magnolia Park Campground offers excellent facilities for children. "We have 6 kids, one in a wheelchair and a service dog and had an awesome time at this campground! Everyone was accommodated for!" shares one family. The park includes basketball courts and volleyball facilities.
Swimming options: Lake Louisa State Park provides beach areas that work well for families. "Kayaked on Dixie Lake, hiked, swam, and biked while others were less than a ½ hour away hanging with Mickey Mouse," notes a visitor who appreciated the balance between nature and proximity to attractions.
Evening programs: Some campgrounds offer structured activities for children. At Disney's Fort Wilderness, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many Orlando-area campgrounds have issues with uneven terrain. At Orlando/Kissimmee KOA, one RVer noted, "Site was a little small for our tent (14 x 14 foot though). Other than that, campground was great! Had rental bikes and a pool. Bathrooms were nice and clean."
Electric service variations: Check amperage options when booking. "We had an issues with our water a few days ago, so we had to use the shower at the facility and it was good. We used the family shower and it was clean and a perfect place to rest for the night!" reports a KOA visitor.
Maneuvering space: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. At Disney's Fort Wilderness, "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."
