The Venus, Florida area sits at an elevation of around 85 feet above sea level, creating a unique ecosystem where freshwater marshlands transition to pine flatwoods. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 50°F, making it ideal for year-round outdoor recreation. The region's campsites typically offer more spacious layouts than coastal Florida campgrounds, with many sites exceeding 50 feet in length.
What to do
Fossil hunting along riverbanks: At Peace River Campground, you can sift through sand and sediment for prehistoric treasures. "We found LOTS [of fossils] and the camp store sells all the gear you need," reports Dan X., who visited the campground for fossil hunting after his first choice was flooded out.
Swamp buggy adventures: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers unique Florida excursions through wetlands. "We went on an airboat ride. It was great. We really enjoyed the rodeo," shares Susan K., highlighting the ranch's signature activities that showcase native wildlife and Florida culture.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Kilpatrick Hammock Campground, nature enthusiasts can spot native species in their habitat. "We've seen wild turkeys, deer, and even heard wild boars at night going through the campground," explains Jessica S., who appreciates the preserve's undeveloped landscape and dark skies.
ATV trail exploration: Peace River Campground offers extensive off-road recreation areas for motorized vehicles. "Plenty of places to find a spot on the river to camp in the wilderness. Bring your rafts and canoes to float down the river or just hang out on the beach in your lawn chair and watch the fun! Lots of trails for dirtbikes, ATVs and UTVs!" says Jackie L., highlighting the diverse terrain available.
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: Kilpatrick Hammock Campground provides exceptional celestial views with minimal light pollution. "We first stumbled upon Kissimmee Prairie because we wanted to camp someplace where we could see really stunning stars at night and boy were we surprised," shares Jessica S. The preserve maintains special astronomical viewing areas with red-only lighting policies.
Spacious waterfront sites: At River Ranch RV Resort, campers appreciate the privacy and natural setting. "We stayed in a lot on the water and on a lot by the woods. The lots were beautiful, spacious and private," reports Katie F., who stayed for over a week and wished for more time.
Family-friendly amenities: Okeechobee KOA provides extensive recreational facilities. "This place is amazing! So much to do! Friendly helpful staff! Kids, dogs, hubby & myself all are having an amazing time and will be returning next year," writes Anne M., highlighting the range of activities available for all ages.
Primitive camping options: Peace River Campground maintains undeveloped areas for a more rustic experience. "We camped twice in the primitive area. This area is all sand dunes first come first serve perfect for atvs and golf carts with lots of trails," notes Kasey K., who appreciated the flexibility of site selection in the wilderness area.
What you should know
Weather and flood considerations: Thousand Trails Peace River experiences seasonal water level changes. "Although we enjoyed our time here there were some serious concerns with flooding. Many large rigs were parked in the flood plane which encompasses a large section of the park," warns Laura H., suggesting campers check conditions before arrival.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds use lottery systems for premium sites. "Every day about 1pm you go sign up for the lottery system to shuffle your RV to a sewer site if you're lucky enough to get it. They failed to tell us you have to show up daily," notes Laura H. about Thousand Trails Peace River's allocation process.
Glamping in Venus, Florida requires advance planning: Luxury accommodations at River Ranch RV Resort book quickly during peak seasons. "My family and I stayed here for a little over a week and wish we could stay longer. We stayed in a lot on the water and on a lot by the woods," shares Katie F., who recommends making reservations well ahead of time.
Cellular coverage limitations: Remote glamping sites near Venus may have connectivity issues. "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," reports Andoni G. about River Ranch RV Resort, suggesting campers prepare for limited service.
Tips for camping with families
Bring bug protection: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in this region. "There is alot to do here, stayed at site 347. It's costly but it worth it. Have to watch out for the mosquitoes so bring a lot of bug spray," advises Dean G. about River Ranch RV Resort, noting the importance of insect repellent for comfortable camping.
Consider alternative accommodation types: Upscale Venus glamping options include pre-set accommodations. "This park seems to flood and have limited sewer sites but is a great place to find Shark teeth and other fossils. I once had to abandon my Tilapia as the alligator appeared to want it more than me!" shares Paula C. about her experience at Peace River Campground.
Plan for transportation within large resorts: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo spans a significant area. "Bring your bikes as everything is a bit of a walk from the campground," suggests Ilena R., who found the distance between amenities challenging without transportation.
Pack supplies for extended stays: Remote location of Venus glamping destinations requires preparation. "This campground was easy to get to and has lots to do near by. There is the town of Arcadia nearby with local history and restaurants if you feel like a hot meal on a rainy night. Or if you forgot something there is a grocery store near by as well," notes Kasey K. about Peace River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site sizes and surfaces: Peace River Oaks offers newer facilities with ample space. "This place is brand new and very clean. The owners/operators are extremely friendly and helpful. All of the sites are spacious with large cement pads," reports Brad P., highlighting the accommodation for larger rigs.
Book full hookup sites early: Many campgrounds have limited sewer connections. "Great place to stay. Would stay here again. 2 machines in laundry. Boat dock on site. Full hookups. Spots are spacious!!!" notes Jeff T. about Palm Beach County Park South Bay RV Campground, emphasizing the importance of reserving premium sites.
Monitor electrical service: Power fluctuations can occur during peak usage. "Watch the electricity during high usage the voltage drop, ours droped to 108v for a couple hours, i choose to run the gen during that time," advises Thomas E. about Thousand Trails Peace River, recommending backup power options.
Consider site location within campgrounds: At River Ranch RV Resort, site selection impacts amenities access. "There's lots to do around the property and the rodeo is a blast. The lots were beautiful, spacious and private. The only fault was there weren't many signs or direction on how to do things, when things were open, costs, and things like that," shares Katie F., suggesting research on specific site locations prior to booking.
