Lake Kissimmee State Park provides access to more than 13 miles of equestrian trails through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks, located about 60 miles west of Patrick AFB. The park maintains crushed shell camping pads with 30-amp hookups for recreational vehicles and dedicated areas for horses. Water recreation options supplement riding opportunities with fishing access and boat launches on the 35,000-acre lake.
What to do
Wildlife observation tower climbing: Lake Kissimmee State Park features an observation tower where visitors can spot local wildlife. "We enjoyed the common areas, the observation deck and the hiking. Staff and hosts were wonderful," notes Perry J. in his Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground review.
Equestrian trail riding: Multiple marked trails connect through the natural Florida landscape. "Beautiful shaded sites and long biking/trails," reports Alexandra E. about Lake Kissimmee State Park. The trails wind through pine forests and across open prairie sections.
Weekend rodeo events: Westgate River Ranch hosts regular rodeo performances showcasing traditional cowboy skills. "We really enjoyed the rodeo," states Susan K. in her review of Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, adding that the resort offers "lots of entertainment for all ages."
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: The spacing and natural vegetation create secluded camping areas. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit," mentions Stephanie G. about her tent camping experience at Lake Kissimmee State Park.
Clean facilities: State park restrooms and common areas receive consistent maintenance. "Extremely clean restrooms, great washing machine and dryer, clean place to wash dishes! wow!" Lauren W. enthusiastically reports about her stay at Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts diverse animal species that frequent the camping areas. "Wild turkeys visited us daily to hang out by a fallen tree near our site. Deer passed by every evening," Barbara J. shares in her Lake Kissimmee review, noting she even spotted a Florida panther about 25 yards from her campsite.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage can be non-existent in some camping areas. "Cell service is practically non existent in the park and within 10 miles from the park. Keep an eye on gas, there's one place about 6 miles from the park and town is about 15 miles away," warns Corey K. in his Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground review.
Activity costs: Many resort amenities require additional fees beyond camping rates. "Most activities are at a cost," Ilena R. mentions regarding Westgate River Ranch Resort, though she adds that "the air boat ride was a fun experience."
Transportation within larger properties: Bringing personal transport helps navigate extensive facilities. "You need a golf cart or bikes to get around," advises Vikki L. about Westgate River Ranch Resort, while another visitor recommends "renting a golf cart, though expensive at $60 a day."
Tips for camping with families
Seasonal program availability: Some educational programs operate on limited schedules. "Cow camp is only open Oct-May," notes Corey K. regarding Lake Kissimmee State Park's historical demonstration area.
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple options exist for entertaining younger campers. "We went to the rodeo on Saturday night, did a swamp buggy ride, skeet shooting, petting zoo and rode a mechanical bull... and there was still more we could have done," explains Tina S. about her stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.
Budget considerations: Plan for activity expenses beyond campsite fees. "The only down fall is the prices are a little expensive, other than that lots of fun," Jennifer K. mentions regarding Westgate River Ranch, which offers numerous attractions at additional cost.
Tips from RVers
Site-specific amenities: Individual camping spots may offer unique features. "We stayed in spot 323 which had its own swing and fireplace. Our 37 ft rig fit perfectly," reports Andoni G. about his experience at River Ranch RV Resort, which adjoins Westgate property.
Low hanging branches: Watch for tree limbs when positioning larger vehicles. "Be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in," warns Denise about Lake Kissimmee State Park, adding that most spots are "fully shaded with trees" which could pose challenges for taller RVs.
Dump station availability: Not all horse campgrounds offer full hookups. "Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station," reports Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park's facilities, noting that "the spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells."