Best Tent Camping near Poinciana, FL

Tent campgrounds near Poinciana, Florida offer a mix of primitive and established sites within state parks and conservation areas. Highlands Hammock State Park Campground provides tent camping with picnic tables and fire rings in both its main campground and primitive areas. East Camp at Little Big Econ State Forest offers more secluded tent sites accessible by hiking, boating, or walking in, with primitive camping along the Econlockhatchee River.

Most tent sites in the region feature sandy or packed dirt surfaces with varying levels of shade. At Hal Scott Preserve County Park, tent campers must hike in to reach the first-come, first-served sites, which are approximately two miles from the parking area. Primitive tent sites typically include fire rings but limited amenities, requiring campers to bring their own water or filtration systems. During summer months, mosquitoes and yellow flies can be problematic, particularly at sites near water. A camper noted, "Insect repellent is a must have" when tent camping in these areas.

The tent camping experience varies significantly between established and primitive sites. Highlands Hammock's primitive tent area offers more space between sites than the main campground, though some campers report road noise from nearby highways. At Little Big Econ State Forest, tent campers can find greater seclusion along the river. "No amenities, no picnic tables, no swimming (there are alligators here)," wrote one visitor about the East Camp area. Walk-in tent sites at Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground provide a more isolated experience with clean, well-maintained sites. Geneva Wilderness Area offers a small hike-in primitive campsite that accommodates approximately five campers, featuring a fire ring, picnic table, and primitive toilet nearby, making it suitable for tent campers seeking a brief wilderness experience close to Orlando.

Best Tent Sites Near Poinciana, Florida (30)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $24 / night

    "I typically avoid tent camping here in the summer months– early summer the trails are heavy with mosquitoes and summer rains bring a large amount of flooding."

    "Lots of RV campers, sites that are quite close to each other, and rock-hard ground from being packed down by heavy vehicles day after day."

    2. 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"

    3. Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Sebring, FL
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (863) 386-6094

    $18 - $22 / night

    "We always camp in the primitive sites when we visit. The are large but have minimal shade. There is a picnic table and fire ring at each site and there is a toilet nearby."

    "Located nearly dead center in the middle of Florida, and equidistant between Fort Pierce and Bradenton is Highlands Hammock State Park."

    4. Hal Scott Preserve County Park

    4 Reviews
    Christmas, FL
    32 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."

    5. Lake Mills Park

    7 Reviews
    Oviedo, FL
    39 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."

    6. East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest

    8 Reviews
    Oviedo, FL
    42 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."

    7. Green Swamp — East Tract

    3 Reviews
    Dade City, FL
    37 miles
    Website

    "We stayed at Trail Ford because on the map it showed being close to a parking area. We had a wheeled cooler and a wagon with our gear so we didnt have an ideal backpacking situation."

    8. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract

    5 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    40 miles
    Website

    "These (this) equestrian and primitive campsite(s) have several of your standard picnic tables under a nice large covered pavilion, fire rings and multiple grills."

    "Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida."

    9. King's Landing

    5 Reviews
    Sorrento, FL
    43 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."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Poinciana, FL

874 Reviews of 30 Poinciana Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2017

    Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    A favorite for the locals

    This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials. The 4 primitive campsites we found were along the river and we did not see bathrooms or picnic tables or fire rings. The trails are marked well but not often maintained - so you really get the feel that you are in the middle of nowhere. No traffic was heard at night and I would not camp out there alone on a weekend due to the "local party crowd". This is a hike in and hike out site. We only stayed 1 night. No amenities. Lots of birds and wildlife in the late day and early morning. Parking is a small fenced in area before turn in road - no security/lighting appx 1.5 miles from camping area that we found

    I would have given this location a 5 except for the large amount of trash we found on trails (that we carried out) and the obvious disregard for rules of no swimming and no alcohol.

  • J
    Jul. 18, 2021

    Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    Great Place!

    The camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need. There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites. There is a restroom facility about a 1/2 mile down the trail. There was firewood for use when I went. Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit. There was also a trash can. I had a great time, the whole park to myself for the night. Strongly recommend if you enjoy primitive camping.

  • 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.

  • Nick C.
    Sep. 22, 2020

    Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

    Limited Primitive Camping- Nice Trails

    The reservable campsites here are very close to each other and not shaded very well, no privacy. We changed to the primitive sites that are first come first served. The are a bit more private and have trees for hammocks etc. it’s nice out there. You can sometimes hear the nearest road and see a power line from camp so you don’t feel that far from the city unfortunately. Sites have a fire ring/grill and picnic table. There is an outhouse out there and on the road in a faucet to get some drinking water, they say it’s clean even though it may be discolored. There are a bunch of short trials to hike in the park. Through some woods, swamps etc. very pretty.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • Jessica S.
    Jul. 29, 2018

    Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

    5 stars for the primitive sites

    We always camp in the primitive sites when we visit. The are large but have minimal shade. There is a picnic table and fire ring at each site and there is a toilet nearby. For showers you have to drive to the regular campground and use theirs. You can purchase firewood in the park as well. There are no hookups at the primitive sites. Behind the primitive sites is a road so you do hear cars and trucks driving by at night.

    We were interested in visiting this park because it is one of Florida's oldest state parks. There are many trails you can visit while you are here. These trails are pretty cool because they are all different so you will never get bored. You can either bike, drive or walk there yourself, but there is also a tram tour you can take. There is also a museum in the park as well if you want to learn more about the area.


Guide to Poinciana

Tent camping near Poinciana, Florida, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from well-equipped parks to more primitive settings, there's something for every type of camper.

Local Attractions for Tent Campers

  • Hal Scott Preserve County Park features hiking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day of exploration before settling in for the night.
  • Lake Mills Park offers access to a beautiful lake, perfect for fishing and enjoying family-friendly activities like playgrounds and volleyball.
  • Little Big Econ State Forest is known for its stunning trails and waterways, ideal for those looking to combine camping with hiking and canoeing.

Tent Campers Appreciate These Amenities

  • Camp Wewa provides drinking water, showers, and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay for families and first-time campers.
  • King's Landing features reserved parking for campers, making it easy to access the nearby springs and enjoy a day on the water.
  • North Shore Relic Ranch offers a welcoming atmosphere with amenities like picnic tables and firewood, perfect for a cozy camping experience.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Poinciana

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Poinciana, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Poinciana, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Poinciana, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Poinciana, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.