403 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping around Tavares, Florida features a mix of lakefront state parks, county campgrounds, and private RV resorts primarily positioned along the Harris Chain of Lakes. Lake Griffin State Park Campground offers tent, RV, and cabin camping options with full hookups and a location convenient to Fruitland Park. Trimble Park Campground provides lakefront sites with water and electric hookups on Lake Carlton, while Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park caters to RVers seeking direct lake access. The region includes several mixed-use facilities that accommodate multiple camping styles, from primitive tent sites to luxury RV pads with full amenities.
Access to most campgrounds remains consistent year-round, as central Florida's subtropical climate makes camping viable in all seasons. Summer months bring higher temperatures and humidity, with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September. Winter months (October through April) represent the peak camping season when temperatures moderate and precipitation decreases. Most established campgrounds require reservations, particularly for waterfront sites during winter months when seasonal residents arrive. The region's flat terrain makes most campgrounds accessible without special vehicles or equipment. One camper noted, "We enjoyed taking morning and evening strolls around the grounds with our dog. We even walked to the nearby Lake Idamere park a few times. The park features a nature trail, pier, playground, and dog park."
Waterfront campsites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, particularly those with direct lake access for fishing and boating. Wekiwa Springs State Park, located about 25 miles east of Tavares, offers spring swimming opportunities in addition to camping. Several visitors mentioned the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including birds, alligators, and other native Florida species. Tent campers generally prefer the more natural settings of state and county parks, while RV enthusiasts have numerous options ranging from basic utility connections to resort-style amenities. "This is an absolutely beautiful small campground surrounded by water and huge oak trees with Spanish moss. There are birds and little alligators so abundant wildlife," wrote one camper about Trimble Park. Proximity to Mount Dora, with its shopping and dining options, provides convenient day-trip opportunities for campers staying in the Tavares area.
"Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."
"We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"Just a note of caution: Keep animals away from the water's edge."
"I stayed in site 11 that was positioned so I had a magnificent view of the lake and the little gator that lived at the waters edge."
"This Florida gem is really something! Campsites were cozy and private. Walking trails a plenty. Friendly, helpful staff and courteous neighbors!"
"Lake Griffin State Park in Fruitland Park, FL is a small Florida State Park and small campground as well. There are only 40 campsites."
from $18 / night
Check Availability"I love coming here even if I never step foot inside the theme parks. There plenty to do here. You can rent golf carts or bring your own. I love just driving around on the golf carts."
"Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes). Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"
from $56 - $201 / night
Check Availability"We stayed 2 weeks with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic."
"Next to a highway so it can be noisy."
"Clearwater Lake Recreation is one of the few National Forest Service managed campgrounds located at the southern end of Ocala National Forest. Campsites are well-shaded, private and spaced apart."
"Clearwater Lake Recreation Area was recommended to us as a backup option to nearby and popular Alexander Springs for our small group of scouts."
from $38 / night
Check Availability"While located a bit off the beaten path in a part of Florida that few find themselves in, Magnolia Park Campground, featuring 56 acres of pristine Florida wilderness, is located on an elbow curve where"
"You can hear a small amount of highway traffic in the distance, but totally tolerable. No pull thru sites. We stayed in site #8 and could barely see the neighbor next to us thru the trees/brush."
"This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida. The facilities were clean and provided showers."
"This is a typical Florida spring."
from $38 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Maybe they choose the name of this RV enclave because they were either actively hiding from the rest of the known world or due to its location, was hidden from (nearly) plain sight."
"Friendly neighbors and perfect lakeside view."
from $50 - $65 / night
Check Availability"We had a tent site near the bathhouse. The bath house is very nice and clean. The sites are all pretty much shaded."
"There is access to the park springs area, which is the main draw for the public. This is a beautiful area so bring the camera."
from $15 - $18 / night
Check Availability
ScoutA very nice campground northwest of Orlando in Apopka. It's near a small airport that only has small planes flying in and out. It's relatively quiet here with access to the major theme parks from the nearby expressway. The staff here are very nice and friendly. I've stayed here on and off for approximately 1 month this summer and plan on coming back here again for the winter.
TravelerOak tree is more of a trailer park home opposed to being a campsite but there are people who live in tents on the property
ScoutI visited Preservation Point in June and really enjoyed the stay. The property is a quiet with a lot of open space and natural scenery. The RV sites were clean, brand new, level, and easy to get set up on. The hookups were simple, and everything felt well laid out with plenty of room for the RV. Gail was very helpful and welcoming, which made the whole experience easy from the start. There is plenty of room to relax, enjoy the wildlife, and take in the natural setting. It is also a nice location for exploring nearby Inverness, the Withlacoochee State Trail, and other Central Florida spots. You can tell the park is still growing, but the foundation is excellent. For anyone looking for a clean, quiet, RV-only place with easy hookups and a peaceful setting, Preservation Point is definitely worth considering.
GuideNice state park. Plenty of lakes, but also plenty of gators at this time; hatching season. Wide open space, great roads. Not all sites have sewer hookups, it’s worth finding out which one before booking, if it is important for you. Even glamping tents and cabins are available, cabins are right next to the lake. Swimming area at Lake Louisa has a playground with swings and even a beach/swimming area, but that seems awfully dangerous, given the noises the gators make about 30 feet away. Unfortunately there is not a lot of things to do near the state park if one wants to do anything outside of camping, at least not a lot I could find, maybe you are better at that. Apparently it is very popular with bikers and triathletes, I have seen at least 10 today, using the great roads.
ScoutWe love this campground. It's quiet and clean and the staff is very friendly.
ScoutMy husband and I love spending time here and overlooking the water, the sunsets and taking our boat out spending time with our family ,everyone there is super nice and friendly 😊
LegendIf you're planning a visit to Walt Disney World or any of Orlando's major attractions and prefer staying in your own RV over an expensive hotel room, Sun Outdoors Orlando Champions Gate continues to be one of the more convenient options in the area. Since my original visit, the resort has matured nicely, with its modern facilities, clean grounds and resort-style atmosphere making it an appealing basecamp for exploring Central Florida. And make no mistake about it, while this is very much an RV resort – not a nature campground – this spot succeeds by delivering comfort, convenience and easy access to everything the Orlando area has to offer.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Beautifully renovated facilities that still feel modern and well-maintained; (2) Outstanding heated swimming pool, clubhouse and spotless comfort stations remain the centerpiece of the resort; (3) Full-hookup RV sites with concrete pads make setup quick and easy; (4) Exceptional location just minutes from Walt Disney World, ChampionsGate with countless dining, shopping and entertainment options; and (5) Everyday conveniences like Publix, Aldi, CVS and numerous restaurants remain close enough that you can leave the RV parked and run errands with ease.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) The campground still feels more like an RV resort than a traditional campground, with relatively little mature landscaping or natural privacy; (2) Larger fifth wheels and motorhomes may find some sites a bit tighter than expected; (3) Tent campers will likely find the experience less appealing due to the predominance of paved surfaces and surrounding RVs; (4) Depending on your site's location, nearby road traffic can occasionally detract from the otherwise relaxing atmosphere; and (5) If you're seeking a true Florida nature experience, you'll need to venture beyond the campground to nearby lakes, conservation areas or state parks.
Happy Camping!
GuideI know, I know, it’s not real camping. But I love it just the same. I love coming here even if I never step foot inside the theme parks. There plenty to do here. You can rent golf carts or bring your own. I love just driving around on the golf carts. They have campfires and trivia. Outside movies. The Trails End to get food at.
Horse stables. Halloween time is the best time to come. I love looking at everyone’s decorations.
ScoutIt has a lot of activities to do with the family. Only thing I don’t like is the restrooms. Had a bad experience. Someone was recording one of my family member in the shower. The other person was standing on a seat and recording when someone goes and shower. Disney couldn’t do anything by the time we notice the person left running from the bathroom units. Did not see a face but just a hand and a iPhone with a flashlight on. Be careful. Don’t go alone to the restrooms. Bathrooms are supposed to be lock at night and need a key card to open , but Disney always have it open. If it was locked Disney could had know who enter the restroom when the incident happened.
Camping near Tavares, Florida centers around freshwater springs, with water temperatures holding steady around 72°F year-round in contrast to the region's often humid weather. Several campgrounds offer direct spring swimming access where visitors can see underwater rock formations and fish while cooling off. Sites positioned along spring runs provide both natural air conditioning effects during hot summer months and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Kayaking through spring runs: At Wekiva Springs State Park Campground, paddlers access multiple waterways with rental options available. "The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife!" notes Jenn B. The springs provide clear visibility for viewing underwater features and fish.
Exploring wildlife observation platforms: Wildlife viewing extends beyond alligator sightings common at lakefront sites. "We camped for three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Saw lost of animals," writes Caitlyn P. about her experience at Wekiva Springs.
Swimming in natural springs: Springs offer refuge from Florida's summer heat with consistently cool water. At Alexander Springs Recreation Area, "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too," according to Gabby C. These swimming areas provide natural alternatives to chlorinated pools.
Fishing from designated piers: Fishing opportunities exist beyond boat access points mentioned in many guides. "We ended up here on a trip to Orlando because we just needed a bit of 'nature.' We were so pleased with our site larger size, well maintained, geared towards RVs but good for tent camping as well," mentions Sara S. about Wekiva Springs, where fishing areas are accessible from shore.
Natural spring swimming: The clear spring waters remain a consistent draw. At Clearwater Lake Campground, "Beat the heat at this beautiful swimming spot. Clear water and a nice beach make this a perfect spot. Lots of space between camping spots and nice bathroom/shower house," shares Natalie B. The swimming areas provide cooling relief without the chlorine found in pools.
Large, private sites: Campers consistently mention the spaciousness of sites at certain campgrounds. "Very small park with only 15 campsites. Each site has power and water connections. Water access by pier for relaxing or fishing," reports Evan V. about Trimble Park Campground. Many sites feature natural barriers creating separation from neighbors.
Proximity to multiple lakes: The chain of lakes provides varied recreation opportunities within short distances. "Beautiful waterside sights, perfect place to bring the boat too. The lake it's connected to a handful of other lakes where you could boat to a different town everyday," explains Keith R. about Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park. These interconnected lakes allow for extended exploration without relocating camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Beyond the bird watching noted in existing guides, many campers report diverse wildlife sightings. "New to Florida. Have not experienced 'real Florida' nature. 1st trip took us to Alexander springs. Great spot and the camp host was outstanding and friendly. We were surprised with an albino squirrel sighting as an added bonus," shares Joshua W.
Spring access gets crowded early: Popular springs fill to capacity, especially during peak times. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warns Hannah S. about Wekiva Springs. Many locations implement capacity limits once parking areas fill.
Seasonal crowding patterns: Winter seasonal residents significantly impact site availability. "We have camped here since I was a kid. I still enjoy camping at this place. There is plenty of nature to during the day and night. The swimming area is amazing," states Rusty R. about Alexander Springs, highlighting the multigenerational appeal that contributes to winter crowding.
Booking competition for prime spots: Securing waterfront sites requires advanced planning. "Booking a reservation on a fairly archaic website with a non-sensical process that involves booking 45 days in advance, so you have to time the precise days you want to camp here and be the first person to reserve a spot at 12:01am on the day that those spots become available," explains Stuart K. about Trimble Park Campground.
Variable amenities between areas: Magnolia Park Campground offers unexpected amenities compared to other nearby options. "For 23 bucks a night you get an electrical hookup which was great for my chevy volt. There's water at your site, a metal fire pit, showers and bathrooms nearby with outlets. It is gated with a code for the security conscious," reports Alistar B.
Look for accessible water entries: Families with small children benefit from gradual entry points at springs. "The bathrooms were well maintained and clean. The park was a beautiful reprieve from the busyness of Orlando!" shares Sara S. about Wekiva Springs State Park.
Consider specialized accessibility features: Some parks offer adaptive equipment for those with mobility challenges. "Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water! she was so helpful," notes Lauren W. about her experience at Lake Griffin State Park Campground, where accessibility options exist beyond what typical guides mention.
Scout playgrounds and recreation areas: Many campgrounds include play structures and open spaces. "We enjoyed taking morning and evening strolls around the grounds with our dog. Seemingly brand new playground for the kiddos," mentions Stuart K. about Trimble Park, providing options for children beyond water activities.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many parks offer Junior Ranger programs and nature talks. "Very beautiful and well maintained county park. Several of the sites are right on the water, great walking trails + clean restrooms," explains Leah Y. about Trimble Park, where interpretive trails provide educational content for children.
Leveling challenges at some sites: RVers report variable pad conditions requiring additional equipment. "Only complaint was our site was pretty unlevel and we had to max out our Anderson leveling blocks to get it right," mentions Scott B. about Magnolia Park. Many sites require additional leveling equipment beyond what might be expected.
Limited pull-through availability: Most sites require backing in, sometimes in tight quarters. "My only problem with wilderness camping. There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your rv into the spot. There is plenty of room between your rv and your neighbor next to you but not a lot of room across from your spot," explains Samantha O. about Disney's Fort Wilderness.
Waterfront sites have specific challenges: Sites along water may have unique considerations. "We camped here with a mid-sized trailer camper. Lower number campsites are not on the water with less gator sitings if that is a fear for you," notes Claire M. about Trimble Park, providing insight for those with specific wildlife concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Tavares, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 403 campgrounds and RV parks near Tavares, FL and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tavares, FL is Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Tavares, FL.
What parks are near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Tavares, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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