The 14 best camping spots within a quick drive from Orlando

Canaveral National Seashore

S. Washington Ave., Titusville, 321-267-1110Canaveral National Seashore
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 42 minutes
For real beach camping near Orlando, this is the place to go. You’ll be able to look out at the ocean from your tent and if you’re lucky enough to be there for a rocket launch it’s one hell of a view. Make sure to call well enough ahead to reserve a spot.

Photo via canaveralnationalseashore/ Instagram

Orlando / Kissimmee KOA Holiday

2644 Happy Camper Place, Kissimmee, 407-396-2400Orlando / Kissimmee KOA Holiday
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 51 minutes
With modern amenities like wifi, cable TV hookups and a pool, this isn’t diving into nature like other places, but it does put you in close proximity to theme parks. RV spots and cabins are also available to rent and it is a good idea to check availability before you go.

Photo via kampgroundsofamerica/ Instagram

Bill Frederick Park

3401 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando, 407-246-4486Bill Frederick Park
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 21 minutes
Located on one of the top five rated fishing lakes in the state of Florida, Bill Frederick Park allows you to be close to the city, yet far enough to enjoy nature. They have a variety of activities including canoe rentals and volleyball courts. Call ahead to reserve a camping date.

Photo via Adobe

Blue Spring State Park

2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, 386-775-3663
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 49 minutes
Activities at Blue Spring State Park revolve around the spring. With crystal-clear water staying a constant 73 degrees, it’s ideal on both hot and cooler days to swim, snorkel or dive. Not to mention on cold days you can see hundreds of manatees in the water. Be sure to make a reservation 24 hours in advance.

Photo via Adobe

Disney Fort Wilderness Campground

4510 N. Fort Wilderness Trail, 407-824-2900 Disney Fort Wilderness Campground
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 34 minutes
This is the kind of camping that you think of when you think of picturesque camping, complete with horseback riding and nature trails. Why? Because it is slightly Disney-engineered to be like that, but at the same time still has that charm and quaintness. No need to reserve ahead of time.

Photo via Disney

Hontoon Island State Park

2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand, 386-736-5309Hontoon Island State Park
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 1 hour 9 minutes
It doesn’t take as much driving as you think to reach seclusion. This place is located on the St. Johns River and offers boat rentals to enjoy the waters. But you better have a reservation 24 hours in advance.

Photo via Adobe

Kelly Park / Rock Springs

400 E. Kelly Park Road, Apopka, 407-254-1902Kelly Park/Rock Springs
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 41 minutes
The trails going through Kelly Park are great and all, but the best way to see it is by inner tube. What better way to see nature than planting yourself in a tube, drinking a refreshing beverage and letting the current do all the work? Make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance if you plan to camp here.

Photo by Steph Davis.

Lake Griffin State Park

3089 US-441, Fruitland Park, 352-360-6760Lake Griffin State Park
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 44 minutes
With a park that encompasses over 600 acres, there is a myriad of different landscapes to see at Lake Griffin. They also offer guided nature tours where you might even spot a bobcat or a bear. Make sure to call ahead at least 24 hours in advance.

Photo via brian_heyman/ Instagram

Lake Louisa State Park

7305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont, 352-394-3969Lake Louisa State Park
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 43 minutes
With cabins, RV slips and tent camping, this place has levels of outdoorsiness to suit everyone. The also have kayak and bike rentals, as well as equestrian trails. Better make a reservation 24 hours in advance, though.

Photo via Adobe.

Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park

8300 FL-46, Sanford, 407-884-2009Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 31 minutes
At one time this park was inhabited by Native Americans, which makes it ideal for finding artifacts like arrowheads. They also offer equestrian camping for horse lovers, as well as hiking and kayaking along the river. You need to call at least 24 hours in advance to get your camping spot.

Photo via Adobe

Wekiwa Springs State Park

1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, 407-884-2009 Wekiwa Springs State Park
Estimated driving distance from Orlando: 34 minutes
With miles of trails to explore and natural Florida scenery all around, this place is a great way to see wildlife and take a dip in the springs without hardly any driving required. Make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance.