Many of those who visit the Orlando area seek more than just the tourist attractions. Florida has a wealth of natural splendor, and one of the best ways to experience it is to camp, whether it is in your RV or a tent pitched in one of Florida's state parks. There are even campsites available at Disney World's Fort Wilderness, which offer you many of the perks of the park.
Lake Whippoorwill offers tent and RV campsites as well as cabins in two sizes. Electricity, water and cable TV service are available at sites for no additional charge, and natural gas is available for a fee. Lake Whippoorwill also offers free high speed wireless Internet access, so you can send out vacation photos while you are having a good time. Full amenities are available on site, including a year-round pool, sauna, pavilion and meeting room.
Lake Whippoorwill KOA
12345 Narcoossee Road
Orlando, FL 32832
407-277-5075
koa.com/where/fl/09322/
Fort Wilderness is a 750 acre camping facility operated by Disney. The campsite can accommodate tents, travel trailers or RVs, and each site is rated for up to 10 occupants. All sites have water, electric and cable TV hookups at no additional charge, and some include sewer as well. High speed Internet is available for a small service fee, and the site offers all of the amenities you would expect in from one of the most luxurious camping spots in Orlando.
Disneyworld: Campsites at Fort Wilderness
4510 N. Fort Wilderness Trail
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
407-939-7675
disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/campsites-at-fort-wilderness-resort/
Located a short drive south of Orlando, Lake Louisa offers visitors a glimpse of of the real Florida. Spend your days at theme parks, including Disney World or Busch Gardens, and then unwind in the evenings in these tranquil settings. Kayaks and canoes are permitted on the park's numerous lakes, but motorized boats are prohibited. Camping options range from primitive campsites to fully furnished cabins. Equestrians will find more than 15 miles of trails to ride, and wildlife enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for photography. There are 62 campsites and 20 cabins available, plus a separate area reserved for equestrians.
Lake Louisa State Park
7305 U.S. Highway 27
Clermont, Florida 34714
352-394-3969
floridastateparks.org/lakelouisa/default.cfm
North of Orlando, the Wekiwa Springs State Park is a wonderful representation of what Florida was like hundreds of years ago when the Timucuan Indians call the area home. The spring is a constant 71 degrees year round and makes an excellent location for snorkeling and swimming. Hikers have more than 13 miles of trails, and nonmotorized boating is an option. There are 60 campsites in the main camping area, along with a full set of ADA compliant facilities. Farther into the park, hikers can enjoy secluded camping at a location known as Camp Cozy 3.5 miles along the trails.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
1800 Wekiwa Circle
Apopka, Florida 32712
407-884-2008
floridastateparks.org/wekiwasprings/default.cfm
