Best State Parks in Central Florida For Camping and Outdoor Leisure

By Roger Jimenez

One of the greatest perks of local state parks is the chance to enjoy stunning natural beauty at an affordable price. Rather than spending a lot on a family trip to the zoo, you can rent a campsite and immerse yourself in nature overnight—surrounded by local wildlife, scenic landscapes, ancient lakes, and the core memories you’ll make, all for a fraction of the cost. We’ve highlighted some of the top Orlando state parks for camping and outdoor activities that are perfect for families and groups looking for an accessible, nature-filled adventure. Let's check them out!

Bill Frederick Park (Orlando)

bill frederick state park sign
park with lots of grass and RVs

Set on the shores of Turkey Lake less than 15 minutes from Universal Studios, Bill Frederick Park spans 183 acres, offering a natural oasis within the city. The park currently features 36 RV sites with full hookups, 32 tent sites, and 7 cozy cabins, each with unique views of the lake and easy access to fishing spots.

The park also boasts a swimming pool, three disc golf courses, and extensive walking and biking trails. Families can enjoy the spacious playgrounds, picnic areas, and a large recreational hall, making it ideal for gatherings.

Boating and fishing are popular here as well, and the park’s proximity to downtown Orlando provides both a natural and urban experience in one unbelievable trip.

Lake Louisa State Park (Clermont)

lake louisa state park sign
park with lots of grass and lake with pavilion

Known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, Lake Louisa State Park is set amidst the region’s rolling hills and three lakes: Louisa, Dixie, and Hammond. The park offers 60 spacious campsites for tents and RVs, all with electric and water hookups. Additionally, there are 20 lakefront cabins with screened porches that provide panoramic views. Equestrian campsites are also available, complete with stable facilities.

For those camping out of an RV, there is a fee of $24 per night plus tax, plus a nonrefundable $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee (includes water and electricity) for RV, cabin, bungalow, boat and yurt units. For tent camping, the fee is $5 per person, per night, plus tax. Cabins are $120 per night plus tax, plus the same reservation and utility fee as listed above.

Activities at the park include fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and horseback riding, along with access to over 20 miles of multi-use trails. Nature lovers appreciate the park’s rich biodiversity, from bald eagles to white-tailed deer, making it a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wekiwa Springs State Park (Apopka)

canoes in a lake
park with man opening up tent

Credit: Wekiwa Springs State Park

This park, centered around a beloved spring, offers 60 campsites with water and electricity for RV and tent campers, along with restrooms and laundry facilities. The star of Wekiwa Springs is the constant 72°F crystal-clear spring pool, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling. Nature trails wind through pine flatwoods and tropical hammocks, with plenty of opportunities to spot native wildlife, like deer and turtles.

For those camping out of an RV, there is a fee of $24 per night plus tax, plus a nonrefundable $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee (includes water and electricity) for RV, cabin, bungalow, boat and yurt units. For tent camping, the fee is $5 per person, per night, plus tax.

Visitors can also rent kayaks and canoes to explore the Wekiva River, making this park a favorite among those looking for a mix of camping and water-based recreation in a lush environment.

Kelly Park Campground (Apopka)

park with rv and trees
spring with tube and trees

Credit: Campendium (left) and 904 Happy Hour (right)

Known for Rock Springs, a natural, free-flowing spring, Kelly Park offers shaded campsites for both tents and RVs with electric and water hookups. The campground is close to the spring, where visitors can tube, swim, and snorkel in the cool waters, making it perfect for hot summer days.

The park’s rustic feel is complemented by picnic areas, grills, and pavilions. With a variety of wildlife along the river, Kelly Park provides a close-to-nature experience for visitors looking for a relaxing and scenic escape.

Trimble Park (Mount Dora)

trimble park with trees and cars

Credit: The Dyrt

Trimble Park, located between Lake Beauclair and Lake Carlton, offers a small, intimate campground with 15 sites that provide both lake views and shaded forest settings. Each site has water and electricity, along with easy access to fishing docks and wooded nature trails.

The park is known for its peaceful ambiance, making it a hidden gem for those looking to escape crowds. With birdwatching opportunities and a tranquil lakeside setting, Trimble Park is ideal for campers who appreciate serenity and natural beauty.

Lake Toho RV Resort (Kissimmee)

line of camper vans
fishing building with lake in background

Credit: Lake Toho RV Resort

Located on Lake Tohopekaliga, the Lake Toho RV Resort provides RV campers with full amenities, including water, sewer, and electrical hookups. The campground has direct lake access, catering to boating and fishing enthusiasts, with a private dock and boat ramp.

The resort also features a pool, clubhouse, playground, and organized activities for guests. Known for its friendly atmosphere and community vibe, Lake Toho RV Resort offers modern conveniences with a focus on lakeside leisure and recreational options, making it a favorite for extended stays and fishing getaways.


Overall

Central Florida’s state parks and campgrounds offer a wide range of outdoor experiences, from the tranquil springs at Wekiwa and Kelly Park to the family-friendly amenities of Bill Frederick Park and Lake Toho RV Resort. Each location provides its own unique mix of nature and recreation, allowing visitors to enjoy swimming, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. These parks make it easy to experience Florida’s natural beauty, offering an affordable and accessible getaway for families, groups, or solo campers alike. For anyone seeking a lakeside retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, many of Central Florida’s campgrounds have something special in store for everyone.

 

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