Camping in Orlando

Want to really save money on your trip to Universal Orlando? Consider skipping the hotels and staying at one of Orlando’s campgrounds instead. There’s no better way to get the entire family together for an adventure they’ll never forget. Take a break from hotels and television and get back to nature with one of these excellent campgrounds and RV parks.

The number one spot for camping in the Orlando area is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campgrounds, located just outside of the Magic Kingdom. It’s about a 20 minute drive from Universal Studios, but like everything Disney does, it is immaculately designed and provides a terrific atmosphere for guests of all ages. Campsites are artfully situated among trees to feel private, but are close enough to all the amenities so that you never feel inconvenienced.

Fort Wilderness features some top notch pools, hiking trails, fishing, pony rides, and nightly campfires featuring Disney characters. Just so you don’t feel like nature is getting to be too much, there’s also a game room, wi-fi and internet services, laundry facilities, and baby-sitting available on-site.

Campsites start at $40 per night and can reach $100 per night during peak seasons, but there’s no other experience that can compare to camping out in the warm Florida weather.

Another great Orlando camping option is the KOA in Southeast Orlando at Lake Whippoorwill. The campsites are situated around a 300 acre lake, which features boat rampes, paddle boats, canoe rentals, and swimming. There’s also a pool, a hot tub, and bike rentals. Plan to spend around $40 per night for a site, and expect about a 20 minute drive into the theme parks.

For a real outdoorsy experience for your family, consider staying at the Circle F Dude Ranch. It’s about a 90 minute drive from the theme parks, but you’ll get to spend time on a real dude ranch, featuring horseback riding, fishing, campfires, and plenty of other family friendly activities. There’s even a camp program for kids that will keep them busy when mom and dad need a break.

If you’re looking for a place that caters to families with RV’s, check out the Orlando Winter Garden RV Park. They feature spacious sites with full electric, water, sewer, and cable tv hookups. Pets are welcome here, and the resort features two pools, laundry facilities, plenty of outdoor sports, and campfires with plenty of down home cooking. Rates range from $30-$50.

Camping in Orlando will not only bring your family closer together, it will save you big bucks that will come in handy when it comes to paying for those theme park tickets!