Manatee Hammock Campground offers waterfront sites on the Indian River with views of Kennedy Space Center for tent campers and RVers. The 26-acre county park features partial shade sites with hookups, clean facilities, and a designated fishing pier. Visitors regularly witness NASA launches directly from their campsites. The location provides convenient access to Space Coast attractions while maintaining a natural setting with abundant wildlife including manatees and dolphins.
What to do
Watch rocket launches from your site: At Manatee Hammock Campground, campers can view space launches without leaving their site. According to Dave D., "This is a nice campground that's located right on the intercoastal waterway right across from Kennedy Space Center. We saw two rocket launches while here."
Explore wildlife viewing areas: The campgrounds near Rockledge feature various wildlife observation points. Jorge F. notes that Manatee Hammock has "beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170), pool and lots of parks within 30 minutes."
Visit nearby attractions: Base camps near Rockledge provide access to local sights. L O. shares, "The campground is easily accessible from the highway, and a breeze to check in. Friendly staff. Dumpsters behind the main office. All roads are one-way counterclockwise."
Experience rodeo events: At Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, weekend activities include western-themed entertainment. Eric mentions, "River ranch has so much to do. Rodeos, food, putt putt, petting zoo- and tons more. A great family venue. Will definitely be back."
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: The River Ranch RV Resort offers premium waterfront locations. Katie F. reports, "We stayed in a lot on the water and on a lot by the woods. The lots were beautiful, spacious and private. There's lots to do around the property and the rodeo is a blast."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Cape Kennedy RV Resort, Daniel G. notes, "Stayed for the night to watch the SpaceX rocket launch. Great view as soon as it cleared the trees. Trees on-site have some beautiful Spanish moss."
Nature observation: The camping areas feature abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Dennis J. says of Manatee Hammock, "It is so nice, right on the Indian river. There is a large fenced Dog Park on the riverfront. Near Titusville, FL. You can see Kennedy Space Center across the water."
Seasonal activities: Different times of year offer varied experiences. During winter months at Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground, Corey K. mentions, "Cow camp is only open oct-May. Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping conditions. L O. warns about Manatee Hammock, "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays."
Site conditions: Terrain varies across locations. Jorge F. explains, "26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade... Downside is freight train noise every night in the early morning hours and traffic noise, specially with campsites near the busy US-1."
Cell reception limitations: Some areas have connectivity challenges. At Lake Kissimmee State Park, Corey K. cautions, "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."
Fire restrictions: Not all sites permit ground fires. According to Angela S., Manatee Hammock is a "Quiet campground. Must rent fire ring or bring your own."
Tips for camping with families
Choose kid-friendly activities: Orlando/Kissimmee KOA offers numerous family options. L B. notes, "Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc. Late arrival possible. Good WiFi and laundry facilities and even a gym."
Look for shaded sites: Florida heat makes shade essential. Barbara J. shares about Lake Kissimmee State Park: "Campsites are private, separated by lots of flora. Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther!"
Consider glamping close to Rockledge, Florida: For families wanting comfort during their outdoor adventures, glamping options provide amenities. Brooke M. describes her experience at River Ranch RV Resort: "We had a beautiful spot in Phase 5, on the canal. The critters weren't awful, very serene sunrises/sunsets and spacious spots."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy animal sightings. Robert T. shares about Lake Kissimmee, "Nice spot to just get away and relax. Lots of hiking trails and some wildlife. Deers all around even among the campsites."
Tips from RVers
Monitor site conditions: Weather affects RV sites differently than tent areas. Annabel F. reports on Manatee Hammock: "We booked last minute in January for an overnight stay with a 25ft RV. They were able to accommodate us. Majority of guests are here for long term. They all made us newbies feel very welcome."
Consider backup systems: Connectivity varies at glamping locations near Rockledge. Andoni G. advises about River Ranch RV Resort, "Be aware of telephone phone reception. At our spot we could not get any reception with ATT. After buying a Verizon hotspot down the road in Lake Wales, we were able to WFH."
Check utility specifics: RV requirements differ between parks. Corey K. notes about Lake Kissimmee, "Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station. The spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells. Spot 9 is fully concrete."
Navigate narrow access roads: Some parks have tight entry points. Mark S. explains at Cape Kennedy RV Resort, "The gentleman who escorted us to our site took us off the road and out into the grass to get around a tree to make the turn workable."
