Campsites near Sharpes, Florida offer diverse camping options beyond traditional tent camping, including yurt camping and primitive camping experiences. The area is characterized by a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, averaging over 50 inches of rainfall annually. Water views dominate many camping experiences with several sites situated along the Indian River and East Lake Tohopekaliga, offering wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do
Rocket launches viewing: Manatee Hammock Campground provides prime viewing spots for Kennedy Space Center launches. "We saw two rocket launches while here," notes Dave D., adding that the campground is "located right on the intercoastal waterway right across from Kennedy Space Center."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access and wildlife viewing. "Deer passed by every evening," reports Barbara J., who stayed at the park. The campground features a pier and lake access, with one visitor noting they "saw lots of animals" including "wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther!"
Kayaking and water recreation: Manatee Hammock Campground provides water access with "a kayak launch ramp as well" according to one reviewer. The park sits directly on the Indian River with water activities being a primary draw. A camper mentioned, "The dock is also the perfect place to catch some redfish or snook."
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at certain parks. At Lake Kissimmee State Park, one reviewer noted, "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees," while another highlighted that it has sites "that were both spacious and private."
Clean facilities: Cape Kennedy RV Resort receives praise for its upkeep. "I've stayed at this campground many times never had a bad experience. Staff is wonderful if you ever need anything all you do is ask. They're right on top of it. Clean sites level sites," shares Dan B.
Wildlife viewing: The area's campgrounds offer excellent wildlife observation opportunities. At Manatee Hammock, one camper enjoyed "watching the manatees and dolphins swim right by us on the real nice fishing dock," while another mentioned the park having "so many gorgeous water birds and trees."
What you should know
Seasonal crowding: Several campgrounds experience significant visitor fluctuations based on season. At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, a visitor cautioned, "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity."
Train noise: Noise pollution affects some camping experiences in the area. At Manatee Hammock Campground, one camper warned, "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between parks. A Lake Kissimmee State Park visitor noted, "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."
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping in Sharpes, Florida is limited, glamping alternatives are available at several parks. Joy RV Park offers glamping units that one visitor described as providing "great customer service and location" with "water hookups, electric connections, and sewage facilities" at all sites.
Tips for camping with families
Disney-adjacent camping: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground provides a resort-style experience with numerous family activities. "The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations," writes one visitor. Another adds that "They offer everything!" making it suitable for families seeking amenities.
Pool access importance: When camping with children during hot months, pool facilities become essential. At Orlando/Kissimmee KOA, a visitor noted the "Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc." The campground also provides "WiFi and laundry facilities and even a gym."
Bathroom proximity: For families with young children, bathroom location matters. A camper at Sherwood Forest mentioned, "The tent spots are ok just placed on corner spots with traffic. The spot I got was close to restroom with kids is a must if you don't have other options."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should research specific site characteristics before booking. At Cape Kennedy RV Resort, a visitor noted, "This campground has a split personality. The west side has nice wide concrete sites, the east side is on dirt and gravel and not so nice. When I made my reservation I missed the pick your site($30 add on?), but given the difference between the two sides, it would have been worth it."
Drainage considerations: Seasonal rains can affect site conditions. At Encore Sherwood Forest, an RVer cautioned, "Except for the few concrete pads up front, all the sites are on grass. While you can't blame the park for the weather, recently there's been a lot of rain and rigs of all sizes are up to their rims in muck."
Tree clearance awareness: Low-hanging branches pose challenges at certain parks. A visitor to Lake Kissimmee State Park advised, "Be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in," while another camper at Manatee Hammock noted difficulty with site access where "our neighbor across from us had to move his truck and several neighbors were helping direct us into our spot."
