When most think of Orlando, Florida, images of an oversized mouse in red trousers come to mind. For these people, the city is synonymous with all the trappings of any amusement park---charming characters, lots of children and rides for the adventurous. What doesn't come to mind are the sights and sounds of camping. Nonetheless, in Orlando and the surrounding areas, camping is available in the most likely and unlikely places.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Located 21 miles north of Orlando, Florida, Wekiwa Springs State Park is a great place for a whole host of activities. In addition to swimming, popular water sports include canoeing, kayaking, fishing and snorkeling. Swimming and snorkeling are best in Wekiwa Springs while canoeing and kayaking is ideal on the Wekiva River or Rock Springs Run. Anglers can get their fill at Sand Lake or the Wekiva River. For those who prefer land-based activities, 13 miles of trail provide ample opportunity for hiking, cycling, wildlife watching or horseback riding on the Tram Bed Horse Trail.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve
Rock Springs Run State Reserve is a 45 minute drive northwest of Orlando, and home to both primitive and equestrian campsites. Popular activities in the park include horseback riding along the park's 17 miles of horseback riding trail, hiking and cycling along 14 miles of trail and wildlife watching. A big draw for horseback riders, the primitive horse campsites are available on a first-come-first serve basis. In addition, there are two primitive campsites available by horse or kayak only and a few three-bedroom cabins for rental. Advance reservations are required.
Walt Disney World
For those who prefer a little pixie dust with their camping, they'll find it in the heart of the Magic Kingdom. Seven hundred fifty acres of pine and cypress trees make-up Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort, horseback, carriage or wagon riding can be found, in addition to biking, boating, water skiing, fishing, wake boarding, a beach and four types of campsites. Visitors have the option of campsites with full or partial RV hookups and premium or preferred sites, meant to accommodate larger groups. Reservations can be made online and guests are not required to purchase tickets to the theme park.
Lake Louisa State Park
Lake Louisa State Park is Clermont, Florida is less than 30 miles west of Orlando, Florida. One of its biggest draws is the lake from which it gains its name, the largest in a chain of lakes connected to Palatlakaha River. These lakes are excellent for fishing, kayaking or canoeing---gasoline powered boats are not allowed. Over 20 miles of trail make Lake Louisa State Park a likely destination for hikers and backpackers, as do the 15 miles of horse trails for horseback riders. For those wishing to stay overnight, primitive equestrian campsites are available, as are 20 cabins each with accommodations for 6 and 60 full-facility campsites.
Lake Griffin State Park
Located one hour west of Orlando, Lake Griffin State Park is home to a gigantic oak tree, famous for being one of the largest in the state. With a canal connecting the park to Lake Griffin, it is also an excellent place for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, speckled perch, and catfish. For those who wish to stay overnight 40 full-facility campsites are available.
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