Those who are looking for a bit of adventure with their visit to the Sunshine State may enjoy a luxurious Central Florida glamping experience as an alternative to a stuffy hotel room.
A cotton candy sunset is a sweet sight for campers in Lake County, Florida (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Glamping is a portmanteau of glamour and camping, and this back-to-nature but not without modern amenities is a popular trend. The option of having the outdoors within reach and the comforts of home (or better) appeals to all ages and demographics. Central Florida is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy both theme parks and the unique environment of the Sunshine State, and the weather makes glamping a year-round possibility. Here are seven great options—from parks to farms—to consider when planning a glamping trip to Florida.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
One of the most popular attractions in Florida is Disney World. The theme park attracts 58 million tourist visits each year, and there is a place here for glampers and campers. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort sits on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest and embraces an American frontier theme. Wilderness Cabins are open to the public, while 1 Bedroom Cabins are reserved for Disney Vacation Club members. Wilderness Cabins sleep up to 6 and come with a mini-kitchen, fridge, and a semi-private patio. Campers have access to the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue dinner show.
4510 Fort Wilderness Trail, Lake Buena Vista
Lake Louisa State Park
Only 30-minutes from Orlando, Lake Louisa State Park sits in picturesque Lake County and the namesake body of water is the largest of a chain of 13 interconnected lakes along the Palatlakaha River. The State Park offers fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, but one of the biggest draws is the horseback riding. After a leisurely ride through the park on horseback, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy all the comforts of glamping in a luxury bell tent. Already set up and loaded with premium bedding and other furnishings, these air-conditioned units make life in the park easy. Toilets and showers are a short walk from the campsites.
7305 US-27, Clermont
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Wonderfield Glamp Village
Airbnb superhost Tara offers glamping in an unforgettable location—an historic Old Florida orange grove. Sitting atop a custom deck, the luxury Butterfly Tent is fitted with a queen-sized bed, a kitchenette, and solar power. Agritourism fans enjoy witnessing the active citrus farm and nature enthusiasts revel in the 66 acres of walking trails darting in and out of cypress swamps. The Village offers four tents all with access to grills, firepits, and a “garden shower.” Floral City is located in between the quaint villages of Lake County and Gulf Coast beaches.
Floral City, Citrus County
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Camp Margaritaville
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Auburndale, Florida, offers a laid-back yet luxurious glamping experience. Visitors stay in charming Cabana Cabins equipped with modern conveniences, and the resort provides top-notch amenities, including a pool, tiki bar, and fire pits. It is a blend of outdoor relaxation and resort-style luxury. Camping near Auburndale, Florida offers access to Central Florida’s top attractions like theme parks, lakes, and nature trails. Camp Margaritaville provides a peaceful retreat with warm weather year-round, ideal for outdoor activities. Plus, campers enjoy the perfect mix of nature and proximity to both Orlando and Tampa for day trips.
361 Denton Ave, Auburndale
Woodpecker Treehouse Retreat
For those who want to take glamping to another level, literally, there is the Woodpecker Treehouse Retreat in Ocala. Just 10 minutes from Santos Trailhead and a quick drive from Rainbow Springs, this nature-lovers’ paradise is brimming with birdsong and tranquil vibes. After exploring the area, relax with a hydromassage in the hot tub, sway in the cozy hanging mesh, or toast marshmallows around the fire pit. Inside is bright and welcoming with a well-equipped kitchen, a comfortable sofa-bed, and an upstairs loft with a queen bed and skylights. This in-the-trees Central Florida glamping experience is limited to four guests.
Ocala, Marion County
Flat Land Center
Glampers are merry at Flat Land Center in Christmas, Orange County. Privately operated by the owner, Flat Land Center offers two styles of accommodations. The Mini Oxford Bell at Linkwest Lodge is a two-person, preset canvas tent with a handcrafted deck. The unit comes with a coffee maker, towels, linens, and much more. New Moon is a glamp’d out yurt spacious enough to sleep 5. An outdoor shower keeps visitors close to nature at this “Art-Agro-Farm” in Central Florida. Add-ons include an English Breakfast basket, fresh Arabica coffee, and pine needle tea. Those who need a bit more pampering in their glamping stay can ask about a clay facial.
Christmas, Orange County
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Colt Creek State Park
Set in the lush, natural surroundings of Colt Creek State Park, the Cypress Dome sites offer a unique Central Florida glamping experience. These well-appointed canvas bell tents are waterproof against those pesky, afternoon Florida storms, and they are equipped with air-conditioning to ensure comfort in the warmer months. Ideal for couples, the queen bed sleeps two, while the spacious tents can accommodate up to four guests. Every detail reflects creative touches and thoughtful amenities, providing an elevated outdoor respite near 15 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, plus a 75-foot fishing pier at Mac Lake.
16000 State Rte 471, Lakeland