Are you ready to go on an unforgettable camping adventure near Orlando? From hidden forest retreats to stunning lakeside campsites, there are endless possibilities for nature lovers.
Whether you’re seeking peaceful, quality time with loved ones, or a fun outdoor experience, the absolute best camping options near Orlando await your arrival.
1. Bill Frederick Park
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Nestled in the heart of Orlando, Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the crowds of tourists and theme parks. Spanning an expansive 183 acres, this park is situated alongside Turkey Lake, one of Florida‘s top-rated fishing lakes.
The park features a spacious picnic area surrounded by lush greenery. Rental pavilions, complete with picnic tables and grills, provide the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely day by the lake. Nearby, a playground and restroom facilities ensure convenience for families. For those seeking more adventure, a disc golf course winds its way through the park, offering a fun activity for guests.
Beyond the picnic area, visitors can explore the camping zone accessible via well-paved roads or scenic nature trails. The park offers a variety of accommodation options, including air-conditioned cabins, full hook-up RV slots, and tent spaces. As guests explore the area, they may even see the endangered gopher tortoises, as the camping zone is surrounded by their precious habitat.
Fishing lovers will find themselves in paradise at Bill Frederick Park. The lake is known for its world-class bass fishing and has been featured in Bassmaster and ESPN’s “Casting Crew.” Anglers can rent aluminum bass boats from the park marina for a reasonable fee while fishing piers dotted around the lake offer convenient spots for casting a line. Just remember to bring a valid fishing license and maintain the cleanliness of the fishing areas.
In recent upgrades, the city has installed power amenities at the Drone Zone pavilion. This enhancement includes shelves and several outlets.
While the park boasts numerous advantages, it can get crowded during peak times.
Distance from Orlando: 20 mins drive by car.
2. Disney’s Fort Wilderness
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Experience the ultimate outdoor adventure at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, where the magic of camping meets the enchantment of Disney. Nestled within 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, this resort captures the timeless allure of the American frontier.
As you wander through this picturesque wilderness, you’ll see an array of wild animals, from deer and adorable rabbits to quacking ducks and curious armadillos.
For larger groups, Fort Wilderness offers four different types of campsites catering to every need, accommodating anything from cozy tents to 45-foot RVs, with a maximum capacity of 10 guests per site. Each campsite boasts privacy-enhancing landscaping, along with essential amenities such as cable television, water, electrical hookups, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table. For added convenience, most campsites also feature sewer hookups; a few even allow furry companions to join in the fun.
Seeking a quieter retreat? Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool offers a peaceful oasis for all to enjoy, with its inviting, quiet atmosphere and soothing whirlpool spa.
To explore the grounds of Disney’s Fort Wilderness with ease, consider renting an electric golf cart. These zippy vehicles offer a convenient way to navigate the resort, and we highly recommend reserving one in advance to ensure availability during your stay.
But the adventure doesn’t end there! Engage in a variety of exciting activities tailored to your liking. Practice your aim with archery, embark on horseback riding, try your hand at fishing, or venture out on a canoeing escapade. If you prefer a more peaceful pursuit, jog along lush meadows and through calm pine and cypress groves. Meanwhile, children can revel in the joy of playgrounds throughout the resort.
Distance from Orlando: 25 mins drive by car.
3. Lake Mills Park
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Located within Seminole County lies a beautiful gem, Lake Mills Park. Lake Mills Park is one of the best camping near Orlando. This county park boasts mesmerizing views along the southwestern shoreline of the enchanting Lake Mills.
For those seeking a camping experience, Lake Mills Park offers a cozy campground nestled amidst the thriving saw palmetto and oak trees. Whether pitching a tent in a secluded grove or opting for an RV, campers on wheels are equally catered to in this peaceful haven.
Upon leaving the parking area, the county park surrounds you. Scattered picnic benches, a splendid picnic pavilion, and conveniently located restrooms beckon you on the left. To delight the younger visitors, a vast playground awaits, securely enclosed within a fence, complete with a climbing wall and a fun bouncy dinosaur.
For those who fancy angling, the decks offer a prime vantage point to cast their lines into the peaceful waters of the large 500-acre Lake Mills. Here, the delicate buttonbushes sway gently above the water’s edge, providing a calm backdrop for this captivating panorama.
Nature lovers are drawn to its wooden boardwalks that wind through a hardwood swamp dominated by cypresses. The boardwalks serve as a pathway to showcase the park’s scenic beauty.
Lake Mills Park opens its gates at 8 AM, offering guests to enjoy themselves in the peacefulness of nature until dusk. Campers lucky enough to stay within the campground can go on fun adventures along the park’s trails, both before and after regular hours.
As the day draws to a close, the magnificent live oaks create a natural canopy, offering a picturesque setting for tent camping beneath their majestic branches.
Distance from Orlando: 30 mins drive by car.
4. Jetty Park Campground
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Discover the calm haven of Jetty Park Campground near the bustling metropolis of Orlando. Envision yourself encompassed by a breathtaking coastline and mesmerizing views of Port Canaveral. This camping destination offers a unique experience where you can appreciate the palm trees and the sun-kissed sandy shores.
Jetty Park accommodates both tent camping lovers and RV lovers. Whether you like to rest beneath the night sky or in the comfort of an RV, this campground caters to your needs. Prepare to be surrounded by nature’s warmth and by the melodic sound of waves hitting the shoreline.
There is a variety of activities to partake in during your visit. Walk along the sandy beach, basking in the sunlight, and enjoy the soft ocean breeze. Engage in beach volleyball or build sandcastles with your family, creating precious memories that will last forever.
For those seeking water-based activities, Jetty Park is an ideal spot for angling, sailing, and kayaking. Cast your fishing line into the waves, hoping to reel in a prized catch. For a more fun adventure, rent a kayak and navigate the shoreline.
Distance from Orlando: 1-hour drive by car.
5. Moss Park Campground
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Moss Park Campground is a hidden gem reaching 1551 acres nestled between the enchanting lakes Mary Jane and Hart. It is one of the best camping near Orlando. Here, you can indulge in boating, hiking, wildlife observation, biking, and an array of exhilarating activities that will leave you longing for more.
As you enter Moss Park, the campground awaits you at the farthest point from the front gate, ensuring a peaceful and quiet experience. A one-way loop leads you to the campground, where 54 spacious and thoughtfully designed sites await. Each site offers a unique experience, adorned with the charm of lush woodlands and gentle shade. You may find yourself nestled between towering pine trees or beneath the protective canopy of majestic live oaks.
For your convenience, the campground features paved trails that grant easy access to two bathhouses, some of which are specifically designed for handicapped access. Moss Park goes above and beyond to ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature. Fire rings, grills, picnic tables, water, and electric hookups are provided at each campsite.
While the former swimming beaches are closed due to the presence of alligators, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy.
Explore the picturesque shores of Lake Mary Jane and the connecting canal with Lake Hart, ideal spots for birdwatching lovers. The volleyball courts near the main picnic area and campground provide endless fun for those seeking a friendly match. If fishing is your passion, cast your line along the canal, the pier near the campground, or the shoreline near the picnic area. Just remember to carry a valid Florida freshwater fishing license and adhere to the posted rules.
Distance from Orlando: 30 mins drive by car.
6. Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park
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A hidden treasure tucked away in the heart of central Florida, Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park is a must-visit for fishing lovers. This picturesque campground offers a peaceful escape like no other, just a short distance from the bustling city of Orlando and its famous attractions.
Situated on the shores of Little Lake Harris, Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park feels like a vacation destination all on its own. Whether you’re an avid angler or simply enjoy taking in beautiful views, the calm lake will leave you in awe. The accommodations here are simple yet cover all your needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.
At Hide-A-Way Harbor, you’ll find full-service RV sites. These sites offer 50/30 amp electric connections and even have 100 amp capability for luxury motor coaches, tiny homes, and park models. In addition, water, sewer, and trash services are provided, making your stay hassle-free and convenient.
One standout feature of this RV park is the incredible fishing opportunities it offers. You can easily access Lake Harris from the marina located adjacent to the RV area. Take your boat out and explore the Lake Harris Chain of Lakes, where you’ll find waterfront restaurants, lively bars, and other local attractions. Whether you have a smaller boat that fits in the covered slips or a larger one that can be docked on the shoreline, the marina provides secure storage options.
Distance from Orlando: 40 mins drive by car.
7. Cherry Pocket Fish Camp
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Experience the charm of Cherry Pocket Fish Camp, where camping becomes an unforgettable adventure, one of the best camping near Orlando. While a love for fishing isn’t mandatory, it certainly enhances your stay in this picturesque Florida campground.
Explore the thrill of casting a line or two as you revel in the joy of catching your own dinner while the sun sets gracefully over the horizon. For those anglers who haven’t had much luck, take solace in the fact that an on-site restaurant awaits.
Discover the essence of this idyllic location, where fresh air and easy access to pristine waters define the lifestyle. Embrace the opportunity to launch your boat and bask in the warmth of the sun as you navigate the waters.
Cherry Pocket Fish Camp caters to your every need, offering splendid RV sites and charming cabin rentals. Indulge in the rustic elegance of the one-bedroom deluxe cabin or the cozy comfort of the Rancher 2-bedroom retreat. Alternatively, opt for the two-bedroom deluxe cabin, where modern amenities blend seamlessly with nature’s beauty. With a variety of accommodation options, there’s a perfect haven for every camper.
Cherry Pocket Fish Camp also boasts an array of amenities that enrich your stay. Relax with live music as melodious tunes infuse the air and create an enchanting atmosphere. Stay connected with loved ones through internet access, ensuring you can capture and share your cherished moments. The convenience of laundry facilities and fully-equipped bathrooms allows you to maintain a sense of home away from home.
Distance from Orlando: 1 hour 15 min drive by car.
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