Cabins near Oviedo, Florida provide year-round access to Central Florida's natural springs, lakes, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The region features relatively flat terrain with elevations averaging 50-80 feet above sea level and a subtropical climate where summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity. Cabin accommodations throughout the area vary significantly in construction style, privacy, and proximity to water features.
What to do
Spring swimming and tubing: Kelly Park Campground offers a natural lazy river experience for tubing down Rock Springs. "We camped for three nights and it does get crowded especially on weekends. There is a tube rental store just down the road from the park," notes a camper at Kelly Park Campground. The springs maintain a constant 68-72°F temperature year-round, making this a refreshing summer activity.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Wekiva River system provides extensive paddling opportunities. "You can take the bus to the marina area for dinner at the buffet, to watch the fireworks/light show, and to see Cinderella's horses and carriage," explains a visitor at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Rental services at most parks charge $20-30 for half-day kayak rentals.
Wildlife observation: Blue Spring State Park becomes a manatee haven during winter months. "During the winter you may not be able to swim because of the manatees," mentions one reviewer. Another camper shares, "We kayaked the river, and even swam with manatees in the spring!!!" Swimming alongside manatees is best between November and February.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Louisa State Park offers well-separated camping areas. "The sites are well maintained. They are close, but there is a lot of vegetation in between," notes a visitor at Blue Spring State Park Campground. Most sites include natural vegetation buffers that create a sense of seclusion despite proximity.
Water access options: Multiple swimming areas accommodate different preferences. "The springs are one of my favorite day getaways! There are beautiful walking trails, beautiful and refreshing cool springs, kayak rentals for $20," shares a reviewer from Wekiva Falls RV Resort. Spring-fed swimming areas remain considerably cooler than lake swimming areas throughout summer months.
Modern bathroom facilities: Clean, well-maintained restrooms enhance the cabin camping experience. "The bath house is very nice and clean. The sites are all pretty much shaded. There are some swings and a cleared area the kids ran around/played chase right in front of the bath house," explains a Kelly Park Campground visitor. Many parks clean bathhouses multiple times daily.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: State parks fill quickly during peak seasons. "If you find yourself out-of-luck in finding an available campground site to reserve, try your luck at booking one of the 6 often overlooked cabins," recommends a visitor to Lake Louisa State Park Campground. Most cabins require booking 3-6 months in advance for weekend stays.
Linen policies: While cabins provide beds, most require guests bring their own bedding. "Beds were a little uncomfortable, but other than that, everything was great. Bathrooms were clean, staff was great!" notes a visitor staying at Cape Kennedy RV Resort cabins. Call ahead to confirm exactly what supplies you need to bring.
Site limitations: Some parks restrict common camping activities. "No hammocks allowed" and "No campfires at tent sites" are frequently mentioned limitations at certain parks. Check specific rules before arrival as policies differ significantly between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival strategy: Securing access to popular springs requires morning planning. "Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns a Wekiwa Springs visitor. Weekday visits dramatically reduce crowds compared to weekends.
Playground proximity: Select cabin sites near play areas for convenience. "A short walk leads to a very nice playground with typical park equipment. My kiddos loved that playground," shares a Kelly Park visitor. Several parks feature multiple playground areas with different equipment for various age groups.
Rental equipment: Many parks offer activity equipment on-site. "When the kiddos get restless and the pristine nature that you find yourself surrounded by isn't enough of a distraction, then head due east to Family Fun Town, which is a family-friendly amusement center with batting cages, mini-golf, arcade games and go cart racing," suggests a camper at Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake. Rental fees typically range from $5-30 depending on equipment type.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV cabin sites often require careful maneuvering. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees. A very clean park," mentions a camper at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Most cabin areas accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet, but entrance roads may have tight turns.
Utility considerations: Water quality varies significantly between parks. "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind," advises a Wekiva Falls RV Resort visitor. Bring drinking water if sensitive to mineral content in local water systems.
Extended stay options: Some cabin rental facilities accommodate longer visits. "We have visited Wekiva Falls many times. So, we decided to go full time in our RV. Always something to do. Granddaughter loves to come visit and play in the stream and on the playground," shares a long-term resident. Monthly cabin rental rates offer significant discounts compared to nightly pricing at several locations.
