Cabin camping options near Orlando provide alternatives to theme park accommodations while offering outdoor recreation opportunities. Located in Central Florida's subtropical climate zone, the area maintains average temperatures between 60°F in winter and 90°F in summer with high humidity levels. Most cabin rentals stay open year-round with peak demand coinciding with school holidays and winter months when northern visitors seek warmer weather.
What to do
Airboat adventures: 15-20 minutes from camps. At Boggy Creek Resort & RV Park, you can take airboat rides directly from the resort property. "They have airboat rides at this location. Most sites are pull through and have pavers," notes Shawn M. The resort sits on East Lake Tohopekaliga, providing water access without leaving the grounds.
Kayaking: Multiple locations with rentals. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers kayak launches and rentals for exploring the springs and river. One camper shares, "The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife! The campground was quiet and the restrooms fairly clean." Weekday visits are recommended for fewer crowds.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening best. The parks around Orlando host diverse Florida wildlife. "We saw lots of animals. Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Everyone was very nice!" reports Caitlyn P. about her experience at Wekiwa Springs. Many campgrounds maintain dedicated wildlife viewing areas or hiking trails where animals are commonly spotted.
What campers like
Swimming in natural springs: Year-round options. Lake Louisa State Park Campground features a lake beach area and swimming options. "This stage park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing," shares Cyndi B. The water temperature in the springs remains consistently around 72°F throughout the year, making them comfortable even in winter.
Proximity to attractions: 15-30 minute drives. Orlando/Kissimmee KOA provides convenient access to major theme parks. A camper notes, "This was the perfect location for our touristy vacation! Most shopping and restaurants are within a 5-10 minute drive. And all the tourist attractions are within 30 minutes: Walt Disney World 15 minutes, Universal Studios 23 minutes, SeaWorld 17 minutes."
Spacious cabin layouts: Most sleep 4-6 people. Cabins typically include full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and living areas. "Sites are nice with a good view of the lake," shares Billy A. about his experience. Most cabins include covered porches or patios, allowing for outdoor relaxation protected from afternoon sun or occasional rain showers.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book 3-6 months ahead. Popular cabin rentals fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. One camper at Wekiwa Springs State Park advises, "Really nice campground with all the amenities, showers, water, and power hookups. We're staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance."
Weekend crowding: Plan accordingly. State park cabins become crowded Friday through Sunday. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs. Many cabins require minimum stays of 2-3 nights during peak periods.
Variable water quality: Sulfur smell common. Some spring-fed water systems have a distinct mineral odor. At Wekiva Falls RV Resort, a camper mentioned, "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind..." This natural characteristic doesn't affect water safety but may surprise first-time visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Pack water shoes: Required at most swimming areas. Rocky or sandy bottoms at springs and lakes can be uncomfortable for children. One family at Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake appreciated the variety of activities: "This is a little oasis in the middle of Orlando. Great facilities, great location. You really won't believe the quality of the campground."
Rent golf carts: Available at select resorts. Larger properties like Thousand Trails Orlando offer cart rentals to help families navigate the grounds. "Rent a golf cart if you don't have one. Transportation was OK and the Tavern was very nice," suggests Donald M. about Fort Wilderness. Carts typically rent for $50-75 per day and require driver's licenses.
Look for organized activities: Scheduled throughout week. Many resorts offer scheduled family events. "We really love camping here. The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. There is bus service throughout the campground with bus and boat service to the Parks," reports Darcy S. about her experience at Fort Wilderness.
Tips from RVers
Check cabin parking: Not all accommodate large vehicles. When booking camping cabins near Orlando, verify space for your tow vehicle. "Our site was 1709. We were walking distance to the pool, arcade, trading post, and campfire/sing along. My only problem with wilderness camping. There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your rv into the spot," shares Samantha O.
Request concrete pad sites: Especially during rainy season. Thousand Trails Orlando offers various site types. "This is probably the largest park we have ever stayed in. We normally go for the smaller quaint parks but we decided to try it out. The sites are large enough and most have full hook ups," notes Brenda L. Concrete pads stay dry during Florida's frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
Monitor weather patterns: Afternoon storms common. Summer brings predictable rain patterns. "We have stayed here 2 times for 2 weeks at a time and we love it. The park is quiet the neighbors are cool and there's even security for that added sense of safety," writes Derick B. about Sherwood Forest. Most cabins include covered areas for waiting out brief storms that typically pass within an hour.
