Camping sites near Oviedo, Florida provide access to Central Florida's freshwater systems with elevations generally below 50 feet above sea level. The region's subtropical climate creates distinct camping seasons with winter highs averaging 70°F and summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Local campgrounds report humidity levels reaching 80-90% during summer months, significantly affecting equipment choices and camping comfort.
What to do
Kayaking the Wekiva River: Visitors to Wekiva Falls RV Resort can rent kayaks for $20 to explore the river system. "There are beautiful walking trails, beautiful and refreshing cool springs, kayak rentals for $20. There are also some small caves there for anyone who free dives or snorkels," notes camper Megan K.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide accessible fishing spots at Lake Mills Park. "The fishing pier was nice and in a cove like area. Several in our group caught some small fish and some turtles too," shares Tracy H. The park features a dedicated fishing dock designed for shoreline fishing.
Wildlife viewing: Geneva Wilderness Area offers trails with diverse wildlife sightings. "The trails are filled with wildlife! Gopher tortoise, raccoon, shore birds, deer and so much more. The wildflowers in the spring and fall are eye catching and there is a small lake not far from the trail offering fishing opportunity," explains Jeanene A.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Weekdays provide a more secluded experience at many campgrounds. At Moss Park Campground, campers note the difference: "Deer roam happily around and your wake up call in the morning is courtesy of feisty Sandhill Cranes calling back and forth. I can't say how crazy it is during the summer time, but in the early fall it's a beautiful campsite to just hang out in and chill," reports Lori E.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking minimal amenities, Little Big Econ State Forest provides authentic wilderness camping. "Beautiful campsite right on the river made for a wonderful experience for a first-time camper, primitive or otherwise. Lovely evening had by all, site was clean and kept," shares Michael M.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the area provide well-separated sites. At Blue Spring State Park Campground, "Sites are well maintained. They are close, but there is a lot of vegetation in between. Bathrooms are spotless and cleaned 3x a day. There is a path from the campgrounds to the spring," according to Jenn B.
What you should know
Campground fills quickly: During peak seasons, arrive early to secure entry. "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 State Park.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. At Lake Monroe Park, "There is a power plant and railroad so you hear a lot of noise at night but was perfect for a one nighter," explains Jude.
Seasonal considerations: Camping conditions change dramatically throughout the year. "The yellow flies can be brutal" in spring and early summer at Little Big Econ State Forest, according to reviewer Jeanene A., while "Summer rains make the trail quite slick and the river rise."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Lake Mills Park offers "a nice bathroom and a playground. There is a walking path and nice views of lake mills," notes Billy A., making it suitable for introducing children to camping.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds include nature centers with programs. Geneva Wilderness Area features "an Education Center: Ed Yarborough Center on the property near the group site that was open for our group and was amazing," says Tracy H.
Activity planning: Schedule morning activities to avoid afternoon heat and storms. "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! The campground was quiet and the restrooms fairly clean," shares Jenn B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on your equipment size. At Blue Spring State Park, "individual campsites give off a vibe of privacy, intimacy and solitude. The individual slots are somewhat tight and narrow to navigate, but most RVs should be OK to back into these sites," advises Stuart K.
Hookup availability: Most parks offer electric and water but not all provide sewer connections. "We had electric and water but trash is upon exit along with dump station. Nice paved road around campground and short trail to main park area," reports Emily C. about Blue Spring State Park.
Campsite surface types: RV sites vary from paved to sandy surfaces throughout the region. "Paved loop, clear sites, close to stores, restaurants, and the spring," notes Anna C. about Blue Spring State Park, while "the ground itself is laden with powdery grey sand" according to Stuart K.