Do not let the name fool you, while Merry D RV Sanctuary may have modern conveniences with full and partial hookup sites, they also have several primitive campsites for those looking for a back-to-nature experience. Fire rings are permitted on these bare-bones, grassy areas and leashed pets are also welcome at the park, though there are breed restrictions. Other campground amenities include a Fellowship Hall with bathrooms, laundry and a recreation where guests can enjoy a potluck dinner, card night and ice cream socials. Campers can also take advantage of a hot shower in the second bath house, and if you are hosting a gathering, there is a covered shelter available, and even an outdoor chapel. Disney World, Universal Studios and Cypress Gardens are all less than 30 miles from the campground.
Merry D RV Sanctuary
4261 Pleasant Hill Road
Kissimmee, FL 34746
800-208-3434
407-870-0719
merryd.com
Primitive camping at Highlands Hammock State park features wilderness sites located in an open pine flatwood area where the only luxuries include a fire ring, picnic table, and pit toilet. Other areas of this pet friendly park are home to several amenities like showers, the Hammock Inn restaurant, various interpretive exhibits, three playgrounds, picnic areas as well as hiking, nature, biking and horseback riding trails. The park hosts several events like Saturday evening campfire circles and hour-long tram tours on which you can visit remote areas of the park where alligators dwell. Other areas of the park offer ample wildlife viewing opportunities for birds, deer, pileated woodpeckers and golden silk spiders. A children's museum, several golf courses and a bowling alley are all located less than five miles from the park.
Highlands Hammock State Park
5931 Hammock Road
Sebring, FL 33872
863-386-6094
floridastateparks.org
Lake Kissimmee is another state park that offers primitive camping for the more adventurous. While there are only two sites available, they are truly rustic and require you to carry all of your equipment via the hiking trail. The sites, which can accommodate up to 12 campers, include two picnic tables and two ground grills each, and with no running water, you must take your own. While all Florida State Parks are pet friendly, the pets are not permitted in either of the two primitive sites. Keep in mind that these sites are located along the 13 miles of hiking trails in the park, so be sure to not only plan ahead for the walk, but be aware that bobcats, bald eagles and white-tail deer are just a few of the creatures that inhabit the park and may be found around these somewhat secluded sites. Activities at Lake Kissimmee include boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing and kayaking. The Ridge Scenic Highway, Bok Tower Gardens, and a selection of golf courses are just minutes from the park.
Lake Kissimmee State Park
14248 Camp Mack Road
Lake Wales, FL 33898
863-696-1112
floridastateparks.org
