Orlando offers more than just the fun of the Walt Disney World and other attractions and sunny weather. It is home to dozens of campgrounds that are less expensive and much more scenic ways to stay in the Orlando area than hotels. So, if you're planning a family vacation, check out some of the local camping areas that are just minutes away from all of Orlando's major attractions.
Camp Two Miles from Mickey Mouse
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground in Lake Buena Vista is just two miles from Disney's Magic Kingdom and 15 miles from Orlando International Airport. Guests can rent bikes, Segways and golf carts to navigate the campground's more than 700 acres. Or, campers can rent canoes, kayaks and paddle boats. Guests can choose from four types of campsites including: tent and pop-up, full hook-up, preferred hook-up or premium sites. All of the campsites can accommodate up to 10 guests and offer electrical outlets, charcoal grills, water, picnic tables and waste containers. There also are nearby comfort stations with private showers, ice dispensers, laundry rooms and bathrooms. Some of the more expensive sites will offer different amenities, including pet-friendly sites. Also on the campground property are an ATM machine, swimming pool, gift shop, coffee shop, arcade and game room.
Enjoy Lake Whippoorwill
The Orlando S.E./Lake Whippoorwill KOA is a 20-minute drive from Walt Disney World on more than 300 acres at Lake Whippoorwill. The campground offers RV sites, tent sites and cabins that accommodate up to six guests. Each camp site is permitted to have one camping unit and one vehicle. It is a pet-friendly campground, but all pets must be on a leash and there's a limit of three dogs per site. Guests can rent canoes, go fishing or enjoy the pool and hot tub. A general store is on the campground property that offers food, drinks, RV equipment and souvenirs. There is a lounge that offers foosball and air hockey. The campground does not permit ATVs, motorized scooters or go-carts.
Camp at the State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka is a 25-minute drive from Orlando and is one of Florida's many beautiful state parks that offer camping. The state park has about 60 camp sites that accommodate RVs or tents. Each camp site offers a grill, fire ring and picnic table. There are bathrooms, showers and trash stations on the property. Guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in Wekiwa Springs or hiking along the Sand Lake or Valksmarch trails. Campers also can go canoeing on the Wekiwa and St. Johns rivers, horseback riding or biking. There also are two golf courses, grocery stores and laundry facilities within four miles of the state park. Pets are not allowed.
Canoe and Backpack
If you're looking to really do some roughing it, then check out the Big Buck Canoeing/Backing Site in Wekiwa Springs State Park. However, campers should be ready to paddle a canoe or kayak for nearly three hours to get to the secluded campsite between Wekiwa Springs and the Wekiva River. The campsite accommodates up to 10 guests. Amenities include only a ground grill and benches. Campers must bring all of their supplies.
Canoes can be rented from the park. No pets are allowed.
Get Cozy
Campers wanting to backpack and canoe should check out the Camp Cozy Canoe/Backpacking Site also in Wekiwa Springs State Park. The campsite can accommodate up to 10 campers. The only amenities are a spigot that produces nonpotable water and a campfire circle. Campers must bring in all necessary supplies and make sure to pick up all trash. No pets are allowed.
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