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!

Are you planning a vacation to Universal Orlando but nervous about leaving your pet behind? With all of the hotels available in the Orlando area, it’s no surprise that many of them are starting to cater to pet-lovers. Bringing your pet along can help calm your nerves, knowing your pet is being cared for, and can also give your pet the adventure of a lifetime.

Because of the huge demand for pet friendly hotels in Orlando, many of those that do allow pets don’t even charge any extra fees for guests who bring their pets along. Some may require a refundable cleaning deposit, and others may have weight limits for animals, but every year the rules become more flexible. Check the rules with each hotel before you book, and confirm one more time before you leave.

The following are some of the best hotels in Orlando for pets:

• Comfort Suites at 9350 Turkey Lake Rd, Orlando - This hotel is one of Orlando’s best when it comes to our furry friends. Both cats and dogs are welcome, and rooms are designed with pet safety in mind. The hotel features a pet playground and plenty of space to take your dog for a walk. Located only 2 miles from Universal, Comfort Suites is a great place for pet lovers.
• Buena Vista Suites at 8203 World Center Drive - This hotel is in the Disney area, so plan on a 20 minutes drive to Universal Studios each day. They welcome both cats and dogs, and feature two-room suites that are designed with pet safety in mind. There is no special spot designed for dogs to play, but guests are permitted to walk dogs on the tennis court or in the parking lot.
• The Sheraton Safari Hotel at 12205 S. Apopka Vineland Rd - With it’s cat and dog friendly policies, this hotel located near Downtown Disney is another great option if you’d like to bring your pet along on your vacation. Room service will accomodate any food orders for your pet that you require, and there’s plenty of walking trails to allow your pooch to stretch his legs.
• Quality Suites 7400 Canada Ave - This cat and dog friendly hotel is the closet hotel to Universal Studios for pet lovers. There’s plenty of space on the grounds for you to walk your pet, and rooms are designed to keep your pet safe.

Take advantage of these and other pet friendly Orlando hotels on your next trip to Universal or Disney!

So you’ve checked out some of the hotel options near the park and you’re convinced that staying onsite is completely worth the cost. Now which of the three Universal Resort hotels do you choose? Read more »