Camping in Winter Haven, FL, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Florida
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Winter Haven

96% (2435 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Winter Haven

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Ocala National Forest

Silver Springs State Park

Star Hosts in Winter Haven

99%

(52)

R & V Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Sebring, FL

Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent on the ranch bring your horses, boats ,enjoy your time riding your own horses in the arena or working them in the round pin or there are trails you could take your horses on. You can take your boat out on the lake and fish ..fun for the family play corn hole horse shoes or go out on the trails let the hubby go fishing on the best lake in Florida. It's nice and quiet and lots of wildlife.

Camp Champ

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Zolfo Springs, FL

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek we have a dock for easy access where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe and trails to ride. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Tons of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, rent our RV or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room with ping pong, ring toss, wiffle ball, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm, treats $5. Fresh farm eggs $5. Kayak or canoe $50. ATV $150.

98%

(268)

Rasayana Cove

2 sites · Lodging25 acres · Ona, FL

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large. The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways. A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

Wilderness Shores Ranch_Campground!

84 sites · RVs, Tents750 acres · Lakeland, FL

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 3 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! Shoreline tents sites available right along the Lake shoreline! Or chose a Primitive Tent Campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery, lots of animals and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with FISHING GALORE!!! On our vast 3 miles of Lake Shoreline!! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood on site/large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome! Kept on a leash when out & about! Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! Our website is wildernessshores.com Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs and close to lots of restaurants!

By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

12 top campgrounds near Winter Haven

97%

(614)

By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

North Shore Relic Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Mount Dora, FL

This property is called relic ranch because we have actually found a ton of old relics. the campground is under an ancient canopy of oaks. so youll always have shade. the center of the property is unique to say the least but the campground is nature at its finest. there is a 2.6 mile nature trail across from the campground to explore. also there is a boat ramp for fishing about 1/8 mile away. you are welcome to roam over most of the 80 acres. We have goats, cows and chickens as well. All super friendly.

Wilderness Shores Ranch_Campground!

84 sites · RVs, Tents750 acres · Lakeland, FL

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 3 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! Shoreline tents sites available right along the Lake shoreline! Or chose a Primitive Tent Campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery, lots of animals and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with FISHING GALORE!!! On our vast 3 miles of Lake Shoreline!! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood on site/large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome! Kept on a leash when out & about! Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! Our website is wildernessshores.com Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs and close to lots of restaurants!

Camp Champ

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Zolfo Springs, FL

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek we have a dock for easy access where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe and trails to ride. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Tons of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, rent our RV or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room with ping pong, ring toss, wiffle ball, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm, treats $5. Fresh farm eggs $5. Kayak or canoe $50. ATV $150.

Rasayana Cove

2 sites · Lodging25 acres · Ona, FL

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large. The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways. A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

98%

(96)

Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

6 sites · RVs, Tents170 acres · Lithia, FL

Cedarkirk was founded in 1971 as a year-round camp and conference center that serves churches, not-for-profits, and schools. Our beautiful property and amenities exist for all people to enjoy recreation and renewal in nature. We own 170 acres of land, most of which looks like wild Florida has for thousands of years, and provides sanctuary for many native plants and animals. We are excited to welcome you to this "place apart."

Bobby's quite place

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Lutz, FL

I live on an acre property I have free range chickens, enjoy some free eggs from them. I live in an rural neighborhood all my neighbors sit on at least a acre of property. At night there's deer that roam around the neighborhood. If you're looking for somewhere to stop on the way on your camping trip this is the place with full hookups. Can only accommodate RVs and travel trailers up to 34ft due to the turning radius into my front gate.

R & V Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Sebring, FL

Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent on the ranch bring your horses, boats ,enjoy your time riding your own horses in the arena or working them in the round pin or there are trails you could take your horses on. You can take your boat out on the lake and fish ..fun for the family play corn hole horse shoes or go out on the trails let the hubby go fishing on the best lake in Florida. It's nice and quiet and lots of wildlife.

98%

(41)

Beautiful Orlando-Area Lake Camping

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Ocoee, FL

We have 5 acres of beautiful Florida lakefront land. Sunrise views are amazing then the day unfolds with a variety of sounds and sights of local wildlife. The small and private lake provides options for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing from our dock. You'll feel like you've found the perfect country retreat and will be just 20 minutes from Universal, 30 minutes from Disney, and 10-20 minutes from all West Orange County has to offer.

100%

(129)

Myrtle Oaks

6 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Lakeland, FL

Welcome to our home!Welcome to Lakeland Florida; close to everything, and away from it all! As you enter our property through a canopy of mature oaks you’ll be greeted by a host of curious squirrels, rabbits, turtles, woodpeckers, and the like. Continue down the long dirt road and around the bend to your peaceful campsite.

100%

(11)

Find Out Farms

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Dade City, FL

This is a 10 acre farm 2 miles off the paved road and a mile from nearest neighbor. This property specializes in sunrises, peace, fresh air, open sky, epic stars and sunsets. There are 5 spots 20 ft wide that include: 50 amp hook up Well water hose bib It’s quiet, calm, and surrounded by nature. Paramotor and off road activities may be available. Any questions please reach out.

91%

(70)

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

6 sites · Tents8 acres · Wimauma, FL

Learn more about this land:Come relax and rejuvenate in our private peaceful oasis. Surround yourself with the tranquility of the woods and private river access in this very rustic, near amenity-less experience; home to towering pine trees, fluffy saw palmettos, soaring air plants, you name it! Looking to spot a few critters? You’ll likely encounter squirrels, rabbit and may even find an occasional deer or hog. Bird watchers welcome, it’s easy to spot real beauties in this quiet untouched gem. Make your way down to the river for tubing, canoeing, wading or just picnicking on the bank overlooking the pristine golden sandy bottom where the water is almost always just knee high. Need to pick up snacks? You’ll be pleased to find that delivery is just one click away via Walmart, Instacart, Amazon and more but you’re also just minutes away from shopping, restaurants, entertainment and the interstate is no more than a 10 minute drive from the property :-)

Under $50

97%

(126)

Camp Champ

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Zolfo Springs, FL

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek we have a dock for easy access where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe and trails to ride. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Tons of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, rent our RV or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room with ping pong, ring toss, wiffle ball, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm, treats $5. Fresh farm eggs $5. Kayak or canoe $50. ATV $150.

By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

6 sites · RVs, Tents170 acres · Lithia, FL

Cedarkirk was founded in 1971 as a year-round camp and conference center that serves churches, not-for-profits, and schools. Our beautiful property and amenities exist for all people to enjoy recreation and renewal in nature. We own 170 acres of land, most of which looks like wild Florida has for thousands of years, and provides sanctuary for many native plants and animals. We are excited to welcome you to this "place apart."

Wilderness Shores Ranch_Campground!

84 sites · RVs, Tents750 acres · Lakeland, FL

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 3 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! Shoreline tents sites available right along the Lake shoreline! Or chose a Primitive Tent Campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery, lots of animals and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with FISHING GALORE!!! On our vast 3 miles of Lake Shoreline!! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood on site/large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome! Kept on a leash when out & about! Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! Our website is wildernessshores.com Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs and close to lots of restaurants!

North Shore Relic Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Mount Dora, FL

This property is called relic ranch because we have actually found a ton of old relics. the campground is under an ancient canopy of oaks. so youll always have shade. the center of the property is unique to say the least but the campground is nature at its finest. there is a 2.6 mile nature trail across from the campground to explore. also there is a boat ramp for fishing about 1/8 mile away. you are welcome to roam over most of the 80 acres. We have goats, cows and chickens as well. All super friendly.

Dog-friendly getaways

97%

(126)

Camp Champ

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Zolfo Springs, FL

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek we have a dock for easy access where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe and trails to ride. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Tons of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, rent our RV or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room with ping pong, ring toss, wiffle ball, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm, treats $5. Fresh farm eggs $5. Kayak or canoe $50. ATV $150.

By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

Wilderness Shores Ranch_Campground!

84 sites · RVs, Tents750 acres · Lakeland, FL

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 3 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! Shoreline tents sites available right along the Lake shoreline! Or chose a Primitive Tent Campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery, lots of animals and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with FISHING GALORE!!! On our vast 3 miles of Lake Shoreline!! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood on site/large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome! Kept on a leash when out & about! Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! Our website is wildernessshores.com Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs and close to lots of restaurants!

North Shore Relic Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Mount Dora, FL

This property is called relic ranch because we have actually found a ton of old relics. the campground is under an ancient canopy of oaks. so youll always have shade. the center of the property is unique to say the least but the campground is nature at its finest. there is a 2.6 mile nature trail across from the campground to explore. also there is a boat ramp for fishing about 1/8 mile away. you are welcome to roam over most of the 80 acres. We have goats, cows and chickens as well. All super friendly.

Bobby's quite place

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Lutz, FL

I live on an acre property I have free range chickens, enjoy some free eggs from them. I live in an rural neighborhood all my neighbors sit on at least a acre of property. At night there's deer that roam around the neighborhood. If you're looking for somewhere to stop on the way on your camping trip this is the place with full hookups. Can only accommodate RVs and travel trailers up to 34ft due to the turning radius into my front gate.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(6)

Lake Kissimmee State Park

Grenelefe, Florida

25%

(4)

Lake Louisa State Park

Horizon West, Florida

100%

(5)

Little Manatee River State Park

Sun City Center, Florida

94%

(8)

Hillsborough River State Park

Crystal Springs, Florida

95%

(11)

Highlands Hammock State Park

Sebring, Florida

92%

(13)

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs, Florida

88%

(4)

Alafia River State Park

Fish Hawk, Florida

75%

(3)

Edward Medard Conservation Park

Valrico, Florida

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Winter Haven guide

Overview

If Winter Haven’s name doesn’t reel you in, its campsites certainly will. Located in Central Florida, Winter Haven has Lakeland and Tampa to its west and Orlando and Kissimmee just northeast. For your next camping trip, however, you’ll want to start in the city. After you check-in to your tent site, explore Winter Haven’s canal-linked lakes, which provide ample opportunities to fish, boat, and unwind. If you’re planning a family-friendly getaway, opt instead for an RV camping resort and piece together your ultimate camping trip with a day at Legoland. Winter Haven strikes the perfect balance between Florida’s cultural thrills and natural landscapes.

Where to go

The Northern Lakes

Winter Haven contains a plethora of lakes, each of which has a distinct identity—and equally distinct campsites. The lakes are divided into Northern and Southern chains, so, for the full Winter Haven experience, drive north and work your way across the freshwater. Rent a cabin overlooking Lake Haines, and you’ll start your camping trip off on the right foot—or with the right paddle.

The Southern Lakes

Keeping in theme, why not explore the area’s other lakes? Pick a lake, any lake, on the Southern Chain of Lakes. Before you park your RV, take it for a spin and enjoy a scenic drive past the likes of Lake Eloise, Lake Summit, and Lake Cannon. Across Polk County, campers will not only find stunning vistas, but also enough fish to fill any campsite grill.

Wildlife Areas

If you’d rather explore Winter Haven’s green spaces, you’re in luck. Wildlife Areas come on all sides of the city, so Florida campers can embrace their inner birdwatchers, fishermen, and nature enthusiasts. Gopher tortoises, in particular, are known to frequent both the Hilochee Wildlife Management Area and the Crooked Lake Wildlife and Environmental Area. Keep your binoculars handy, and you’ll see all sides of Winter Haven.

When to go

Winter Haven is a year-round locale, though, like its name suggests, winter may actually be the best time for your next Florida camping trip. Hurricane season runs from late spring through early fall, so summer campers run the risk of storms. Of course, Florida has earned its “Sunshine State” alias, so you can certainly camp, hike, bike, and swim throughout the year. Just plan to maximize your time in the sun—and around the lakes.