Orlando's glamping options extend beyond the manicured themed accommodations, with campgrounds situated across Central Florida's diverse landscape. The region sits at a mere 82 feet above sea level, creating a predominantly flat camping terrain with occasional rolling hills at sites like Lake Louisa. Summer humidity reaches 90% with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter nights can unexpectedly drop to the 40s even at luxury camping destinations.
What to do
Kayaking on East Lake Tohopekaliga: Launch directly from Boggy Creek Resort & RV Park where you can enjoy paddling while watching for native wildlife. "We stayed there for a month from the middle of June to the middle of July in 2021... If you're a boater or fisherman, there is a dock for fishing off of and a boat ramp for putting your watercraft into the lake," reports Cindy W.
Rocket launches viewing: Titusville's Manatee Hammock Campground offers unobstructed views of Kennedy Space Center launches across the Indian River. "This is a nice campground that's located right on the intercoastal waterway right across from Kennedy Space Center. We saw two rocket launches while here," shares Dave D.
Hiking through pine forests: The rolling hills at Lake Louisa State Park Campground offer rare elevation changes for Florida with multiple trail systems. "This park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing. We stayed at site #43 which has water/elec. hookup, dump station near by," notes Cyndi B.
What campers like
Natural springs access: Campers value the refreshing 72-degree spring water at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, though timing matters. "Wekiwa was an amazing place to camp and spend our weekend. The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife! However, a weekday is best to visit the spring and river. On the weekend there were tons of people in the park," advises Jenn B.
Disney-adjacent accommodations: The structured glamping experience at Orlando/Kissimmee KOA provides proximity to attractions without the premium price of on-property options. "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," reports Brandie B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings offer the best chance to spot native species. "There is an abundance of wildlife including Sand Hill Cranes (which serenaded us every morning and barked their unhappiness when we walked near them during our daily treks around the park), Peacocks, Herons, Tortoises, and Alligators," observed one camper at Boggy Creek Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds and capacity limits: State parks fill quickly during peak periods. "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.
Site spacing varies significantly: Thousand Trails Orlando offers different sections with varying privacy levels. "Not one I would come back too at such a high point in RV travel. In a few rows, you share the yard patch with another camper, and the pie is small," notes Robert K.
Transportation considerations: Many Orlando glamping destinations require additional transportation. "Rent a golf cart if you don't have one. Transportation was OK and the Tavern was very nice," suggests Donald M. regarding Fort Wilderness.
Weather preparedness: Florida's quick-changing weather patterns affect glamping experiences. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were," shares Caitlyn P. about her Wekiwa Springs stay.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility assistance: Some parks offer special accommodations for families with mobility needs. At Wekiwa Springs, "Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water! She was so helpful," reports Lauren W., who was camping with her grandchildren.
Kid-friendly amenities: Seek out campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc. Late arrival possible. Good WiFi and laundry facilities and even a gym," notes L B. about Orlando/Kissimmee KOA.
Off-peak visits recommended: School breaks create significant crowd increases at Orlando glamping destinations. "Being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking. My husband pushed me there in the wheelchair," shares Lauren W. about navigating Wekiwa Springs during busy periods.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on your specific needs. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees. A very clean park," shares Lauren W. about her Wekiwa Springs experience.
Navigation challenges: Some glamping sites require careful maneuvering. "Holy moly did it take a lot to get this into our spot. 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," reports Samantha O.
Extended stay considerations: Monthly glamping options provide significant savings. "This park is impeccable with newly updated bath houses, laundry facilities, 2 pools, playground, camp store, mail room, pickle ball and tennis courts, new basketball court and dock to launch kayaks, boats or fish from," notes Brandie B. about Thousand Trails Orlando, where many spend entire winter seasons.
