The St. Cloud area features several equestrian-friendly campgrounds set within Florida's unique transitional ecosystem where flatwoods meet prairie landscapes. Elevations typically remain under 100 feet above sea level, creating terrain that's accessible for both hikers and horseback riders throughout the year. Winter months (November through March) offer the most comfortable camping temperatures, with daytime highs averaging 70-75°F.
What to do
Horseback riding on sandy trails: Lake Kissimmee State Park offers miles of sandy trails suitable for equestrian activities. One visitor notes, "Most of the spots are fully shaded with trees. If you have a tall rv low hanging branches in the camp area might be an issue" (Corey K.).
Wildlife viewing from observation towers: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper explains, "Really nice campground with all the amenities, showers, water, and power hookups for rv's, or in my case to charge my phone and camera. Beautiful place love the springs!!" (Zackari S.).
Historical exhibits: Visit authentic Florida history at Lake Kissimmee's cow camp recreation. According to a camper, "We rode our bikes to the cow camp and snooped around. That was really interesting" (Lorilee S.).
Stargazing in dark sky areas: Kilpatrick Hammock Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor reports, "Having been here multiple times since, we are never disappointed with the starry views... Please be courteous and keep your outdoor lights to a minimum. The night sky's are just breathtaking" (David G.).
Water recreation on multiple lakes: The region offers several lakes for swimming, fishing and boating. A visitor to Lake Louisa notes, "This stage park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing" (Cyndi B.).
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Louisa State Park Campground provides well-separated campsites. One camper shares, "All of the sites seemed level, most are quite private with a fair amount of trees/foliage in between sites, have a sizable picnic table and nice fire ring with grate" (Cyndi B.).
Wildlife encounters: Horse campgrounds near St. Cloud, Florida frequently feature close encounters with native species. A visitor to Lake Kissimmee State Park observed, "Wild turkeys visited us daily to hang out by a fallen tree near our site. Deer passed by every evening" (Barbara J.).
Clean facilities: Colt Creek State Park Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. A visitor noted, "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water an each site for RV camping. Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks" (SanDal B.).
Natural vegetation: The equestrian campgrounds in this region preserve native plants between campsites. A Lake Kissimmee visitor observed, "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit. Bathrooms were clean" (Stephanie G.).
Accessibility options: Several parks offer accessible camping options. At Colt Creek, "We had the opportunity to camp at one of the handicap accessible sites recently and found it to be very convenient. Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety" (Jeanene A.).
What you should know
Distance to supplies: Most equestrian-focused campgrounds are remote. For Lake Kissimmee, a camper advises, "Keep an eye on gas, there's one place about 6 miles from the park and town is about 15 miles away" (Corey K.).
Cell service limitations: Communication can be challenging at some sites. One camper warns, "Be aware that we had no cell service (this actually made us cancel another stay we had planned since we needed cell service for remote work)" (Denise).
Reservation requirements: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo and other popular equestrian campgrounds fill quickly. A visitor recommends, "Word of advice, book well in advance" (Zackari S.).
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings higher visitor counts to water features. For Wekiwa Springs, "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity" (Hannah S.).
Tree clearance for RVs: Low-hanging branches can cause issues for larger vehicles at some horse campgrounds. A camper noted, "If you have a tall rv low hanging branches in the camp area might be an issue" (Corey K.).
Tips for camping with families
Rodeo entertainment: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers unique family activities. A visitor shared, "The boys loved the rodeo that was held on the weekend. They even got to participate in chasing the calf to win a prize" (Christy C.).
Wildlife education: Children can observe animals in their natural habitat. At Lake Kissimmee, a camper reported, "Our 6 teenagers were so excited to stand face-to-face, only a few feet from gentle deer, bunnies, and turkeys" (Roxxy G.).
Swimming options: Several parks have designated swimming areas. A visitor to Wekiwa Springs noted, "The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife!" (Jenn B.).
Transportation planning: Consider renting golf carts at larger campgrounds. A Westgate visitor recommends, "We stayed in spot 323 which had its own swing and fireplace. Our 37 ft rig fit perfectly and five year old loved riding bike around the park. Everyone was super friendly and I recommend renting a golf cart, though expensive at $60 a day" (Andoni G.).
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Some parks have better access for big vehicles. At Lake Louisa, "In addition to the campground for RV,tents and trailers....this park has cute little teepees for rent, tent sites, primitive sites,group sites, 20 cabins (no pets allowed) and even an equestrian campground with stalls and a corral" (Travyl Couple!).
Hookup limitations: Many horse campgrounds near St. Cloud provide partial hookups only. At Colt Creek, "Power and water an each site for RV camping" with dump stations available (SanDal B.).
Leveling considerations: Most sites are designed to accommodate RVs without extensive leveling. A camper at Colt Creek noted, "We love this place. The long and windy ride in gives you a trip back to some real Florida. The campground is well maintained and has large, level sites" (Joe R.).
Low branch awareness: Pay attention to overhead clearance. A Lake Kissimmee visitor cautions, "Be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in, and be aware that we had no cell service" (Denise).
