Cabins near Tavares, Florida range from lakefront accommodations to woodland retreats in central Florida's lake region. Situated at 75 feet above sea level, Tavares experiences subtropical weather with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 50°F. Cabin camping options in this area typically require reservations 6-11 months in advance due to high demand during winter months.
What to do
Water activities: Lake access is available at Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park, where cabins provide convenient boat launch options. "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," notes Keith R. Kayaking is especially popular at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, where "the springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind," advises Calvert F.
Hiking trails: Multiple routes exist within a 30-minute drive of Tavares cabin rentals. "Wekiwa was an amazing place to camp and spend our weekend. The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife," shares Jenn B. Morning hikes are recommended during summer months when temperatures often reach the mid-90s by mid-afternoon.
Swimming in springs: Many cabin locations offer access to natural springs with consistent 72°F water temperatures. "The water was beautiful!" exclaims Lauren W. about her experience at Kelly Park Campground. During winter, some springs like Blue Spring close swimming areas when manatees are present, as "you may not be able to swim because of the manatees," explains Zach G.
What campers like
Lakefront views: Many cabin rentals offer water views or direct lake access. At Encore Southern Palms, visitors appreciate the lakefront atmosphere. "We stayed 2 weeks with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic. This was a great central location to visit lakes, gulf coast, springs and historic towns," shares Mary H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's cabin locations provide chances to observe native Florida wildlife. At Blue Spring State Park Campground, "We spent much of our time kayaking from the park's canoe launch. Here, we were able to see tons of wildlife from all sorts of fish, alligators, and yes, a manatee!" reports Jenn B.
Clean, modern facilities: Many cabin rentals near Tavares feature recently updated amenities. "The bathrooms were well maintained and clean. The park was a beautiful reprieve from the busyness of Orlando!" comments Sara S. about Wekiwa Springs State Park. Similarly, at Lake Louisa State Park Campground, "The bath house was very clean and modern, with spacious shower stalls and plenty of hot water," notes Cyndi B.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabin rentals fill quickly, especially at popular locations like Lake Louisa State Park Campground. "This stage park has lots to offer - great trails for hiking and biking, boat launches, fishing, or just relaxing," explains Cyndi B. State park cabins typically require booking 11 months in advance for winter stays.
Pet policies vary significantly: Always check before booking if traveling with animals. "We had a tent site near the bathhouse. The bath house is very nice and clean. The sites are all pretty much shaded," mentions Shelly R. about Kelly Park Campground, which doesn't allow pets in cabins.
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience traffic or train noise. At Southern Palms, "Road noise was heard during the day by late in the evening things quieted down nicely," notes Robert M. Similarly, at Blue Spring, one camper mentions, "The only drawback I found from the campsite/campground area was the noise. There are train tracks near the state park, so hearing trains throughout the night(especially at 3am) was not what I'm looking for when I get out into nature. So bring ear plugs!"
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak timing: For families seeking quieter cabin experiences, avoid weekends at popular springs. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," advises Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs State Park. Weekday cabin stays typically offer more peaceful experiences.
Kid-friendly activities: Many cabin locations include playgrounds and swimming areas designed for children. At Kelly Park Campground, "A short walk leads to a very nice playground with typical park equipment. My kiddos loved that playground. My favorite part was the springs that also had a little 'beach' where my youngest played in the sand after tubing," shares Shelly R.
Accessibility options: Some cabin locations offer accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges. At Wekiwa Springs State Park, "our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. restrooms directly behind us. beautiful tall shady trees... once we got there, Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!" reports Lauren W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: When booking a cabin near Tavares, check site layout details. At Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, "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," advises Samantha O.
Rental options: Many locations offer golf cart rentals to navigate larger properties. "Who doesn't love this place!!! From the second you get there it's an experience. From the bot ride to Magic Kingdom to all the great activities they have. All I can say is Rent a golf cart, it's worth it!!!" recommends Kirsten J. about Fort Wilderness.
Utility considerations: Cabin rentals have varying levels of kitchen facilities and utilities. At Blue Spring State Park, cabins come with "electric, and water. Pet friendly and clean bathrooms with a small walking path for the pups," notes Jacquelin P. Most state park cabins include basic kitchenettes rather than full cooking facilities.