Clarcona Horse Park sits approximately 15 miles northwest of Winter Garden in central Florida. The park features nearly flat terrain typical of the region, with elevations around 100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter months offer milder camping conditions with daytime highs in the 70s. Most campsites throughout the area provide moderate shade from established oak and pine trees.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Wekiwa Springs State Park offers extensive riding trails for equestrians. "The 22 miles of riding paths surrounding the park connect directly to nearby trails," notes Zackari S., who adds that the "springs are amazing" for a post-ride cool-down.
Fishing access: Lake Louisa State Park provides multiple fishing spots across several lakes. "The many smaller lakes and ponds are tranquil and picturesque," shares Dave V., though he cautions visitors to "always be mindful of what may lurk below the surface."
Wildlife viewing: Green Swamp West Tract delivers exceptional wildlife encounters. "The symphony of Sandhill Cranes and Coyotes as the sun set was a memory I'll never forget," reports Kelly S., who stayed at the Gator Hole campsite with a young child and two dogs.
Biking trails: Lake Kissimmee State Park features extensive biking routes through natural Florida landscapes. "Beautiful shaded sites and long biking trails," notes Alexandra E., who found the park particularly enjoyable for cycling enthusiasts.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Louisa State Park campers appreciate the well-designed layout. "We've enjoyed very spacious sites with beautiful views and an exceptionally clean property," explains Jackie B., who particularly enjoyed the beach areas on the property.
Clean facilities: Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake maintains well-kept shower and restroom facilities despite its urban location. "The bathrooms and shower facilities are clean and fairly well-maintained," shares Kelsey G., who adds that the park offers "every recreation in the book: boating, fishing, biking, hiking, frisbee golf, wildlife watching."
Affordable pricing: Lake Panasoffkee provides excellent value with free camping. "The sites are nice and wide. All for FREE," reports Curtis D., who notes amenities include "a fire ring, and a grill. Also water, non portable. Flushable toilets."
Natural setting: Colt Creek State Park offers a genuine Florida wilderness experience close to Winter Garden. "The long and windy ride in gives you a trip back to some real Florida," writes Joe R., who appreciates the "large, level sites" that didn't require blocking even for larger rigs.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Green Swamp West Tract requires advance planning. "Stayed at Ashley campground, which is free with a reservation through Southwest Florida water management. They provide a Lock code for you to enter," explains Abby M., who found the experience worthwhile despite minimal cell service.
Weekend crowds: Wekiwa Springs State Park can become busy 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. This sentiment is echoed by Jenn B. who notes "a weekday is best to visit the spring and river. On the weekend there were tons of people in the park."
Cell service limitations: Several horse campgrounds near Winter Garden have spotty connectivity. At Lake Kissimmee State Park, Corey K. reports "Cell service is practically non-existent in the park and within 10 miles from the park," adding that visitors should "keep an eye on gas, there's one place about 6 miles from the park and town is about 15 miles away."
Weather considerations: Summer camping means preparing for heat and insects. At Bill Frederick Park, Morticia D. advises that primitive camping areas have "no hammock space, no campfires," but notes "hot showers were hot!" and the park's location is "close enough to everything in Orlando."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Lake Louisa State Park provides accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us," reports Lauren W., who was especially impressed when rangers provided assistance: "Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!"
Swimming opportunities: Bill Frederick Park offers family-friendly water activities beyond the equestrian facilities. "This park offers every recreation in the book: boating, fishing, biking, hiking, frisbee golf, wildlife watching, swimming pool," notes Kelsey G., making it an excellent option for families seeking diverse activities.
Educational experiences: Lake Kissimmee State Park provides learning opportunities alongside camping. "We rode our bikes to the cow camp and snooped around. That was really interesting," shares Lorilee S., who also notes abundant wildlife: "Tons of deer all over, all the time."
Safety considerations: When visiting horse campgrounds near Winter Garden with children, maintain vigilance near water. Dave V. cautions visitors at Lake Louisa to be careful around water features: "Take heed and don't wade or swim there. Lake Louisa itself has a beach area and swimming is done there."
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: Colt Creek State Park accommodates larger rigs with well-designed spaces. "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water on each site for RV camping," reports SanDal B., who adds that the bathrooms are "nicer (newer) than most FL state parks."
Power options: Lake Kissimmee State Park provides limited hookups for RVers. "Only 30amp hook up and no sewer, but there is a dump station," notes Corey K., adding "the spots are pretty level and the pads are crushed shells," with "spot 9 is fully concrete."
Tree clearance: Lake Kissimmee State Park requires caution when navigating. Corey K. warns "If you have a tall RV low hanging branches in the camp area might be an issue," while advising that "most of the spots are fully shaded with trees."
Extended stay options: Lake Panasoffkee works well for longer visits. "There are open sites for solar and shaded spots. There is plenty of room for pull through with large rigs," reports Allison H., making this free campground particularly appealing for budget-conscious RVers wanting to explore multiple horse campgrounds near Winter Garden.
