The campgrounds near Orlando offer access to diverse natural environments from pine forests to freshwater lakes. Many properties in this region maintain equestrian facilities with designated horse camping areas. Winter months typically provide the best camping conditions with temperatures averaging 60-75°F and lower humidity levels compared to summer.
What to do
Kayaking at spring-fed waterways: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground provides access to crystal-clear spring waters. "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!" according to Jenn B.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground features diverse ecosystems for spotting Florida wildlife. "Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther! While sitting in our screen gazebo, I was awed by the passing of a male panther about 25 yards from our campsite," writes Barbara J.
Horseback riding on maintained trails: Green Swamp — West Tract provides free equestrian camping options with trail access. "You can't beat Green Swamp West for nice and quiet free camping area," notes Robert H. The preserve maintains multiple equestrian-friendly campsites with hitching posts.
Primitive backcountry camping: For those seeking remote experiences, hike-in sites offer solitude. "We hiked out about a mile along the Florida Trail and stayed for a night at the Gator Hole campsite. It was so peaceful, lots of space to explore and the symphony of Sandhill Cranes and Coyotes as the sun set was a memory I'll never forget," shares Kelly S. about Green Swamp.
What campers like
Natural swimming options: The freshwater springs provide natural alternatives to chlorinated pools. "The springs are amazing!! Hoping to see some Florida native black bears fingers crossed," says Zackari S. about Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground. The springs maintain a consistent 72°F temperature year-round.
Spacious, private sites: Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit. Bathrooms were clean. Lots of small trails to explore and tall watch tower climb for observation," notes Stephanie G.
Proximity to Orlando attractions: Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake provides urban camping options minutes from theme parks. "This is a little oasis in the middle of Orlando. Great facilities, great location. You really won't believe the quality of the campground," states Brian K. The park sits approximately 15 minutes from Universal Studios.
Free equestrian facilities: Several properties near Orlando provide budget-friendly horse camping. Regarding Green Swamp — West Tract, Monte W. explains: "It is free but had to register at watermatters.org - (Southwest Florida Water Management). They provide you with a code to unlock the gate once registered."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds near Orlando typically require advance planning. For Colt Creek State Park Campground, one camper advises: "They did a fantastic job in all area's of their new campground. So much to do and it was so quiet and clean."
Seasonal considerations: Florida's summer heat impacts camping comfort. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," Hannah S. warns about Wekiwa Springs State Park during peak seasons.
Campsite access limitations: Some campgrounds restrict vehicle access to camping areas. For primitive sites at Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, Olena R. notes: "if you choose primitive campground ($10) you will have to walk a little bit. The car parking is far away from the actual campsite."
Campfire regulations vary: Not all campgrounds permit open fires. "Great place. Only downfall is no fires," mentions Raffael B. about Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, despite the "Fort Wilderness" name suggesting otherwise.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort while maintaining outdoor access. Lake Louisa State Park Campground offers "cute little teepees for rent, tent sites, primitive sites, group sites, 20 cabins (no pets allowed) and even an equestrian campground with stalls and a corral," according to Travyl Couple.
Check accessibility features: Several campgrounds accommodate mobility needs. "Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety. These tent sites had water and electric as well. There are 2 of these sites available and both are easily accessed from handicap parking close by," Jeanene A. shares about Colt Creek State Park Campground.
Seek ranger programs: Educational opportunities enhance family camping experiences. "The real draw to this particular campground is the massive equestrian infrastructure that exists as the fulcrum," Stuart K. notes about Clarcona Horse Park, which regularly hosts equestrian events that children can observe.
Verify amenities before arrival: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were well maintained and clean. The park was a beautiful reprieve from the busyness of Orlando!" says Sara S. about Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many Orlando-area campgrounds have space constraints. "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 Wekiwa Springs.
Consider electrical needs: Amperage varies between campgrounds. Colt Creek State Park Campground offers "electric and water an each site for RV camping. Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks," according to SanDal B.
Reserve early for peak seasons: Orlando's proximity to attractions increases campground demand. "We were on the inside of the loop on #4. Since the pandemic spots at most state park have been few and far between so we have become way less particular and simply take what we can get at most parks," Perry J. advises regarding Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Be prepared for limited hookups: Not all RV sites offer full connections. "RV spots are spacious. There is not a lot of privacy between spots but cover will grow in in time. Most sites are in full sun most of the day," notes Jeanene A. about Colt Creek State Park Campground.
