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Best Tent Camping near Orlando, FL

911 Reviews

Tent campers seeking forested sites near Orlando have several options within a 30-mile radius of the city. Little Big Econ State Forest offers primitive tent camping with hiking and paddling access, while Lake Mills Park provides 14 tent sites with nearby lake access and day-use amenities. Both locations maintain developed tent areas suitable for weekend camping trips or longer stays.

Most Orlando-area tent sites feature dirt or sand surfaces under oak tree canopies that provide essential shade during hot Florida days. Sites at Hal Scott Preserve County Park require a hike of up to two miles from parking areas, while East Camp in Little Big Econ State Forest can be accessed via boat, drive-in, hike-in, or walk-in routes. According to one visitor, "Little Big Econ has several primitive camping spots which are pretty private. The trails are well kept, and even when flooded there are easy back trails to take." Fire rings are common at most tent campgrounds, though campers should check seasonal fire restrictions. Several locations, including King's Landing and Black Bear Wilderness Area, permit pets at their tent camping sites.

The tent camping experience near Orlando offers proximity to natural waterways and wildlife viewing opportunities. Geneva Wilderness Area and Seminole State Forest provide reservable tent sites with varying levels of amenities, though most maintain primitive conditions. A recent review noted that at Lake Mills Park, "All sites were clean and very well cared for. The whole park was nice. Kids enjoyed the playground and fishing from the dock." Mosquitoes can be problematic in summer months, particularly near water features. Many tent camping areas require advance reservations or permits, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Several locations feature access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and paddling routes, making them suitable base camps for exploring central Florida's natural areas.

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Best Tent Sites Near Orlando, Florida (39)

    1. Lake Mills Park

    7 Reviews
    Oviedo, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 665-2180

    "This was a special use event so we used the big open field areas in the day use part of the park near the lake.  This was a very, very good and well run event on everyone's part.   "

    "The good: This is a beautiful clean campground attached to a nice community park. 14 sites total some closer to each other than others, but we had no neighbors."

    2. East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest

    8 Reviews
    Oviedo, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 971-3500

    "Hike out to this beautiful sight under the stars and dream of bygone eras...We started at the Barr Street Trailhead and hiked in to LE 39 where we found 2 fire rings."

    "I definitely wouldn't recommend recommend getting there at night to set up, but otherwise it's fairly easy to get around."

    3. Hal Scott Preserve County Park

    4 Reviews
    Christmas, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 836-6200

    "Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months. The second site, about 2 miles in, has a storm shelter nearby for those sudden afternoon thunderstorms."

    "It's a long walk to a primitive site, but totally worth it. There's no real way of knowing if the sites are already taken, so be prepared for that."

    4. King's Landing

    5 Reviews
    Sorrento, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 886-0859

    $30 / night

    "The camp spaces are on a large field and each has its own fire ring.

    It has a very cozy communal vibe. Saturday nights they host a large fire down by the boat launch for everyone to join."

    "To begin with, there’s nearly 1,000 crystal clear springs throughout the state of Florida, so when you find one that’s pretty spectacular, it’s like finding a needle in a haystack."

    5. Camp Wewa

    1 Review
    Apopka, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 703-1784

    6. Outdoor World Orlando Resort

    1 Review
    Windermere, FL
    19 miles
    +1 (407) 239-8774

    "Nice level sites I've been there a few times Nice facilities and pool fun to bike around in"

    7. Geneva Wilderness Area

    2 Reviews
    Geneva, FL
    22 miles
    Website

    "There is one small hike in to primitive campsite on the far side of the lake from the nature center - on less than 2 mile loop trail. Site will hold approximately 5 guests comfortably."

    "There were restrooms at the pavilion but no showers.  The pavilion area had lights and a grill with a cooking area just off to the side. "

    8. North Shore Relic Ranch

    2 Reviews
    Astatula, FL
    24 miles
    Website

    $20 - $35 / night

    "The hiking near by is great and plenty of trails near by. Also a spot to go paddling but we didn’t this trip. We will deff be back!"

    "It was great getting to learn about the north shore ranch and the abundance of trails in the area for exploring!  Stop by and leave a review with some pictures of your favorite views!"

    9. Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites

    6 Reviews
    DeBary, FL
    28 miles
    +1 (352) 360-6675

    $9 - $18 / night

    "Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring."

    "We packed light but not that light because we like to be comfortable; it took my BF and me about 3 trips each to get everything we needed to the site, including firewood, our 4 person tent, air mattress"

    10. Black Bear Wilderness Area

    1 Review
    DeBary, FL
    24 miles
    Website

    "To get to this camp you will have to hike in along old levy's some just over a foot wide. Much of the trail is sloped to one side or the other. Along the way you will see some beautiful sites!"

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Orlando, FL

26 Photos of 39 Orlando Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Orlando, FL

911 Reviews of 39 Orlando Campgrounds

  • Carol B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Moss Park Campground

    Quiet, lots of trees, away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando

    This is a 54 site campground with hook ups at each site, fire ring, and picnic table. The trees provide a good amount of privacy from adjacent campers. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. This is about 15 min from the airport yet very removed from Orlando. Water on three sides, gates that close and lock from 6pm to 8 am (Nov-March) but an easy access code is given at check in to be able to come and go after hours. No pets, no alcohol, and quiet after 10. I will stay again! It was a mix of RVs, trailers, camper vans, car camping, and tents when I stayed. The personnel were very nice and helpful at check in.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2018

    Black Bear Wilderness Area

    Be ready for a hike

    To get to this camp you will have to hike in along old levy's some just over a foot wide. Much of the trail is sloped to one side or the other. Along the way you will see some beautiful sites! Many hike the loop trail as a day hike. but it is better enjoyed at a slower pace as there is so much to see if you open your eyes. The just over 7 mile trail takes you by orange trees cover in butterflies in spring, also wildflower lines trails and along the beautiful St Johns River.

    The camp site is used often by scouts and folks wanting to start training for longer hikes North of Florida. The campsite it self is very nice. there is a covered shelter, fire pit, benches and a picnic table. Many trees for hammock camping and lots of room for tents. Sadly with no toilet facilities back along the edges of the campsite you will find evidence of human use and abuse. PLEASE leave no trace. Also if you go take the time to pull a few of the invasive Caesar Weed plants that are trying to take over the camp (they are the ones with seeds that act like Velcro).

    You MUST have a reservation to camp here. If you have a pet it MUST be kept on a lease at all times and picked up after. there are feral hogs and snakes on the property....and you must practice bear safety using a bear proof container for food and hanging from tree at night. We saw no bear sign when we hiked - but that is not saying they are not around.

  • Tracy L H.
    Dec. 31, 2019

    Sawgrass Island Preserve

    Old Florida!

    Sawgrass Island Preserve is a unique piece of property.  I love hiking on the north side of the property it looks so much like Old Florida.  I like to go across the causeway and down the Bog Button Trail and over to the Hammock Trail and along the Cactus Trail and down around the ponds and back out the Bent Pine Trail.  This is around a five mile hike and can be stretched out by doing the North Loop Trail also .  I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking.  I also saw a black bear up a tree in the marsh.  It is a hidden gem for sure.  The south side is nice but gets super sandy in places due to horseback riders.  And if you have horses the preserve allows riders and even has a spot or two with water for the horses and some picnic areas with hitching post to tie off horse and have some time to eat.  Some trails are narrow and give the feel of actually walking in, in the woods!  I haven't camped there but they have two primitive campsites on the Hammock Trail near the marsh with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post.  There is also a horse campsite along the Cactus Trail down near the ponds and there is an open pole barn with two roomy stalls for horses and picnic tables and a fire ring with benches.  Also room to pitch tent under barn too.  There is no water available at any of the campsites.  Could be a fun adventure waiting in Old Florida.  There is a camping application to fill out on line at www.lcwa.org and a  small fee, but if everything checks out ok at the end of the stay after a Ranger has had a chance to check out the site your fee is refunded.

  • James A.
    Sep. 9, 2020

    Colt Creek State Park Campground

    Tired Tree Primative Site

    Okay, so I didn’t do a ton of research, but I have driven around here before so I decided to get one of the primitive sites and do a little gear testing.

    -$5+ per person/night -Bundles of firewood available for purchase (located at the site) -$5 arm loads -Fire ring, Picnic Table, Bench, and Garbage pail at the site

    Walked the long way in (3.25miles), instead of the 1 mile route. The entire hike is through typical open grass “roads” cut and maintained in the Florida brush. The site itself had a nice vibe and is far away from any other sites at the park. A large open clearing could easily allow for a dozen tents, unfortunately, I brought my hammock,.. and this site is not set up for hammock camping.

    With a little rigging and placement over a dried up gator hole, I found a spot that I could hang my hammock and shelter for the night.

    I thoroughly enjoyed the spot, other than the lack of clearing for a hammock, and the mosquitos were absolutely unbearable... I am aware that it was rainy season in Florida, near a WMA named Green Swamp, but I went home with hundreds and hundreds of bites, despite my preparedness.

    I would camp here again, maybe when it’s a little cooler and more dry, and also would hike in with a tent, or potentially take the shorter route and pull a wagon full of gear, to enjoy a bit more “glamped” feel.

  • Jessica S.
    Jul. 10, 2018

    Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground

    Primitive Camping in Lake Kissimmee State Park!

    We decided to book a group primitive campsite in this state park. We were in the primitive group campsite on the Buster Island Loop. It was about 3 miles to hike in to the site. The path is very clear with markers and when you arrive at the site, there is a clear indicator to follow. The path to the site is right off the main trail.

    Since this is a primitive site, there are no facilities and keep in mind you need to bring your own water for drinking, cooking, cleaning etc. At the site there were two picnic tables and a fire ring which was enough for our group. The area was cleared with a lot of space to set up all of our tents. We were here in late April when the weather was getting warmer so remember to bring mosquito repellent and enough water for your whole group to stay hydrated!

    The hiking trails are loops about 6 miles long where you can experience different types of Florida environments and boating on the lake. And there are also history demonstrations showing the old Florida cowboys at the park.

    All in all, this park has many options and activities. Whether you are into water sports or biking and hiking, this park has it all.

  • Monte W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 7, 2020

    Green Swamp — West Tract

    Peaceful and free!

    Stayed here for a night in November of 2020. We stayed at the Ashley campsite. 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. At the campsite there were about 15 sites. Most had non-potable water. All had a picnic tables and fire ring. My site had a covered picnic table. A vault toilet was also provided and was pretty clean. The campsite was about half full when I was here and it was pretty quiet even though you can see your neighbors. You are permitted to collect fire wood as long as it has fallen from the tree. For a free campsite, I can’t complain. I would stay here again.

  • Shannon S.
    May. 28, 2023

    Moss Park Campground

    Finally, a quiet campground!

    Maybe it’s the no pets rule, but this campground was the quietest we’ve been to and we camp nearly every weekend.

    The sites are spacious with the fire rings being in the way back. This is a no alcohol park. They didn’t have any fire or ice, which is a negative. We love camping at spots that have that for purchase. The nearest Publix is about 5 minutes or so away and does have both.

    They don’t allow you to have anything on the trees, which I found a little off putting. We had solar lights hung from them, just wrapped around, not attached, and were told by the camp host (? Didn’t introduce himself) they needed to come down. Staff rode around a few times and said nothing but, okay.

    The bathrooms were clean and well maintained. Lots of open space to run around, kick a ball, two playground sets, and a beautiful walk to Lake Mary Jane.

    Quiet hours were observed, which was so nice.

    I brought my T-Mobile home router and had plenty of signal to work, stream, etc.

    We will be back!

  • Napunani
    Jun. 10, 2023

    Lake Griffin State Park Campground

    Small and Nice

    PROS 

    Dark sky friendly-no street lights in campground 

    100% gravel site 

    Metal fire ring with cooking grate 

    Moveable wood and metal picnic table 

    2 hook lantern pole 

    Security gate that closed at dusk with code provided for entrance 

    Some privacy from neighbors 

    Coin washers/dryers at the campground bathhouse 

    3 bars T-MOBILE 

    CONS 

    No senior or military discount 

    No campground WIFI 

    Site 11 very unlevel 

    Gravel roads to and thru campground 

    Tight campground road 

    Horrible traffic noise from US 441

  • Aubrey O.
    Apr. 24, 2022

    Buck Lake Group Campground

    Primitive Lakeside Camping

    Perfect for group of friends, club, or scouting type outing. Super private with your very own lake! Picnic tables, grills, and fire rings.... Two dirt/gravel boat ramps... Vault toilets, and steel trash bins.

    *my verizon service worked well here

Guide to Orlando

Tent camping options near Orlando include sites with varying access requirements and natural features. Lake Mills Park provides 14 tent campsites within an urban park environment, offering access to a lake, playground, and hiking trails. Campsite access at Lake Mills Park is categorized as boat-in, drive-in, or walk-in, making it suitable for campers with different transportation methods.

Primitive camping opportunities exist at areas like Little Big Econ State Forest and Hal Scott Preserve County Park. Sites at Hal Scott require hikes ranging from 2-2.5 miles from parking areas. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, including King's Landing which offers streamside camping and Geneva Wilderness Area which features secluded tent sites.

What to do

Paddling opportunities: At King's Landing, campers can access Rock Spring Run for kayaking or canoeing. "Kings Landing is absolutely breath taking. It has to be the most beautiful place in FL. The springs are crystal clear, especially when you're the 1st one out there in the a.m. which is a huge perk of camping here," notes one camper. The spring water maintains a consistent 72-degree temperature year-round.

Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities within walking distance of tent sites. At Lake Mills Park, "The fishing pier was nice and set on a small lake, one of several on the property. We caught 7 fish in the short amount of time we were there before dinner," reports a visitor. Common catches include bass and panfish.

Trail exploration: The trail system at Little Big Econ State Forest connects with other regional trails. "You could spend an entire day just getting lost around the trails. So much fun. Not a very difficult trial though," mentions one hiker. The forest contains over 10 miles of marked trails through pine flatwoods and along river corridors.

What campers like

Privacy levels: At Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites, campers appreciate the isolation. "I love this site and have camped there twice (most recently Feb 2024). The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away)," notes one visitor. Sites are separated by substantial distances, creating a sense of solitude.

Night sky viewing: Clear nights offer stargazing opportunities at certain locations. "This is a good place to come to see the stars! Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring. Great for large groups or a backpacker," writes a camper at Seminole State Forest. Light pollution diminishes with distance from Orlando's urban center.

Natural shelter: Oak hammocks provide shade at many campgrounds. At Black Bear Wilderness Area, "The campsite it self is very nice. There is a covered shelter, fire pit, benches and a picnic table. Many trees for hammock camping and lots of room for tents." The oak canopy reduces exposure to Florida's intense sun.

What you should know

Seasonal water levels: Trails and access paths may flood during Florida's rainy season. "Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months," notes a camper at Seminole State Forest. "I would wear waterproof hiking boots and have some gaters handy when you arrive in case you have to walk through some muddy spots or puddles."

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Orlando tent campgrounds?

Most tent campgrounds near Orlando are primitive with minimal amenities. Green Swamp — East Tract offers basic facilities at its Trail Ford site, including picnic tables, benches, and fire rings with enough space for multiple tents. Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites provides similar basic amenities with fire rings and picnic tables in a secluded setting ideal for stargazing. For those wanting more facilities, Camp Wewa offers water access and toilet facilities. Most wilderness campgrounds require you to pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Cell service is typically limited, and potable water is rarely available at primitive sites, so come prepared with sufficient water and supplies for your stay.

How much does tent camping cost in Orlando?

Tent camping costs around Orlando vary considerably. Foster Bridge Primitive Site Green Swamp West and most other primitive sites in state forests typically charge $5-15 per night per site. East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest has similar affordable rates for its backcountry sites. Many public wilderness areas require camping permits rather than fees, which may be free or nominally priced. For campgrounds with more amenities, expect to pay $15-30 per night. Most public wilderness camping areas require advance reservations through their respective management agencies, while some operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Always check official websites for current pricing and reservation requirements before planning your trip.

When is the best season for tent camping in Central Florida?

The optimal tent camping season in Central Florida runs from late October through April when temperatures and humidity are lower and insects are less abundant. Sawgrass Island Preserve and other natural areas showcase Florida's beauty during these months with comfortable daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s°F and cooler nights. Winter (December-February) offers the most pleasant camping conditions with minimal rain and temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Hontoon Island State Park Campground is particularly enjoyable during this season. Summer camping (May-September) presents challenges including afternoon thunderstorms, high humidity, temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, and abundant mosquitoes. If camping during warmer months, prepare for wet conditions and bring appropriate cooling and insect protection.

Where are the best tent camping sites near Orlando?

Orlando offers several excellent tent camping options within an hour's drive. Geneva Wilderness Area features a peaceful primitive campsite accessed via a short hike along a 2-mile loop trail, accommodating about 5 people comfortably. For those seeking a true wilderness experience, Black Bear Wilderness Area provides beautiful scenery along narrow levy trails, making it perfect for hikers wanting immersion in nature. Both locations offer secluded tent camping opportunities with minimal development, allowing you to experience Florida's natural environment. Other notable options include Hal Scott Preserve with its hike-in sites and Little Big Econ State Forest where you can either hike or paddle to pristine campsites under the stars.

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