Wekiwa Springs State Park Overview
Camping at Wekiwa Springs State Park is a great weekend getaway. Wekiwa Springs State Park campground is the ultimate hidden gem nestled conveniently in Central Florida area. As well as providing easy access to one of best swimming springs and paddle friendly rivers in the state of Florida.
This is your chance to experience REAL Florida!
We’re talking about crystal clear springs where you can dive in and feel like you’re in an underwater paradise. Simply bliss!
And that’s just the beginning!
Enjoy the thrill of wildlife encounters while paddling along the river, and the sheer beauty of lush foliage all in one amazing destination.
Get ready for a fun-filled adventure where you can unwind, explore, and embrace the great outdoors like never before.
Let’s dive in and discover the wonders of Wekiwa Springs State Park together!
Let the adventure begin!
Pre-Trip Planning & Camping Checklist
- Book early for prime weekends or snag a last minute cancellation
- Pay for the night before so you can check-in early and avoid the entrance lines
- Shop before entering the park, there’s a Publix nearby
- Bring your own firewood or bring cash to purchase $10 per bag
- Mosquito Repellent
- Pack an extra bathing suit- just because!
- Smore’s Kit
- Headlamps
- Want more camping tips, check out our full guide.
Camping Area
Settle into spacious and well-maintained campsites at Wekiwa Springs State Park, designed to accommodate various camping setups, including larger rigs.
Situated approximately a mile from the Wekiwa Springs entrance, the camping area is secluded amidst scenic oak trees. While it may be a bit of a distance to walk, driving or biking to the springs is recommended.
Each site features picnic tables and fire pits, allowing you to enjoy outdoor meals and cozy campfires.
Firewood can be conveniently purchased for $10 (cash only) from the ranger station.
Save time and avoid a second time in line by picking it up when you check-in.
Don’t forget to bring your citronella oil lamps, tiki torches or natural mosquito repellent.
It’s Florida, there will be bugs! They weren’t too obnoxious during our trip in May but come July and August they get mean! Be Prepared.
Campground Access
There is not a separate entrance/exit for those with camping reservations.
You will come in through the same entrance as the day visitors to the park.
When the park reaches capacity be prepared to wait for someone to remove the barricades so that you can exit and enter.
Just plan accordingly and don’t leave if you don’t have to. It will just make your trip more enjoyable.
Be aware that leaving the park may require waiting in line for re-entry, particularly when there’s a high influx of visitors eager to explore the springs.
Campground Amenities
The camping area offers essential amenities for your convenience. While not all sites have full hook-ups, a dump station is available for wastewater disposal.
Clean and well-maintained bathrooms provide restroom facilities, shower stalls, and an outdoor dishwashing area.
Additionally, the general store at the main recreation area offers sundries, snacks, and general supplies to meet your needs.
WiFi & Connectivity
While WiFi is not provided in the camping area but it was easy to connect using our mobile hotspot.
We didn’t have any trouble using our phones, checking email and posting to FB while at the campground using basic cellular data. For this trip we were using the AT&T network via Cricket on both an Android and an iPhone.
On the river service can be spotty but sometimes there’s been enough of a signal to post a Facebook LIVE event.
Or you can take the opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the nature for the weekend. We DARE you to try!
Nature’s Oasis- Embrace the Wild!
Rise and shine, nature lovers! Picture this: you wake up to the sweet symphony of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves, surrounded by a lush forest that feels like your own personal sanctuary.
Welcome to Wekiwa Springs State Park, where you can escape the craziness of city life and fully embrace the wonders of the wild!
Pro Tip: beat the rush by heading down to the springs bright and early. Secure yourself a primo spot before the crowds start pouring in.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not rent a kayak and explore the meandering river?
Be sure to read our post on Paddling Wekiwa River.
Just remember to channel your inner Crocodile Dundee and approach this wild kingdom with respect and mindfulness.
You see, Wekiwa Springs State Park is home to some real Floridian VIPs—bears, raccoons, alligators, and snakes. Yep, we’ve got the whole squad here!
So, be a responsible visitor and keep your food locked up tight, both during your daytime escapades at the springs and when you kick back at your campsite for the night.
And when you come across those majestic alligators on the river, don’t get too close.
Admire their awe-inspiring presence from a safe distance.
Wekiwa Springs River Alligator Etiquette
Oh, and a friendly reminder: let’s keep the screaming to a minimum, especially when encountering those snappy reptilian locals we fondly refer to as lake lizards.
Trust us, it’s better for everyone involved.
Plus, it saves you from looking like a clueless tourist or novice adventure explorer.
So, let’s maintain our cool composure and enjoy the magic of Wekiwa Springs State Park without causing any unnecessary commotion.
Just remember, those cute little baby gators may look relatively harmless but mama gators are always near by and can get pretty pissed off if they think you are threat. These are the times when the ZOOM lens feature on your phone becomes really useful.
Now that we’ve got the ground rules covered, it’s time to unleash your inner explorer and revel in the untamed beauty that awaits you. Wekiwa Springs State Park is calling your name, my friend.
So, gear up, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you with stories to tell, photos to share and memories to cherish.
It’s time to embrace the wild side of Wekiwa Springs State Park in all its glory!
Let’s go!
Aquatic Bliss: Crystal Clear Springs & Exploring the River
Get ready to be blown away by the breathtaking crystal-clear springs that steal the show at Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Plunge into the refreshing waters, maintaining a cool 72 degrees all year long. Remember, it’s a long walk down to the springs and kayak launch area.
There’s ample parking as long as you arrive early. but do note that the lot tends to fill up quickly during peak times, such as weekends and holidays.
But that’s not all!
Grab your kayak or canoe and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey along the Wekiva River, up Rock Springs Run or towards the party at Wekiva Island.
Prepare to be captivated by the picturesque views and encounters with the park’s vibrant wildlife. No worries if you don’t have your own vessel, as convenient rentals are available right on-site. Wekiwa Springs is a great place for both newbie explorers and experienced paddlers alike.
Other Outdoor Activities
Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a wide array of other outdoor activities. There are ample places to set up for family picnics and bbq’s. Snacks, lunch and adult beverages are available from the grill.
Hike through the scenic trails, where you might spot deer, turtles, and various bird species. Nature photography enthusiasts will find countless opportunities to capture the park’s breathtaking landscapes.
There’s also a secret secluded spot to picnic and fish located a few minute drive past the camping area.
Drive past the campground for about a mile or until you hit the dead end.
On the righthand side there is a parking lot. Take the path that’s straight ahead and walk toward the bathrooms.
Go behind the bathrooom and keep walking until you see the picnic table.
Looks like this also could be a great spot to fish.
Unforgettable Nighttime Experiences
As the golden Florida sun bids farewell, Wekiwa Springs State Park unveils its mesmerizing nighttime allure, promising magical memories.
Gather the troops around a crackling campfire, for campfire tales and stargazing.
Indulge in the timeless tradition of toasting marshmallows and crafting delectable s’mores, savoring the sweet delights that camping brings.
But the wonders of the night do not end there. don’t forget to look up and enjoy the night sky adorned with countless shimmering stars.
While you stargaze, listen closely to the harmonious melodies of the nocturnal creatures that serenade the park.
Reminder! Before retiring for the night, pack away your belongings and ensure a tidy campsite. Bears and raccoons are eager to sample any leftovers left unattended.
Please don’t feed the bears, or the raccoons, and especially don’t feel the squirrels. They become the WORST little beggars after getting the taste of human snacks.
Just be be mindful, you are in the REAL Florida and avoid attracting your animal neighbors to the campsite by leaving out food remnants.
By practicing responsible camping habits, we can coexist harmoniously with the park’s fascinating wildlife.
Embrace the enchantment of Wekiwa Springs State Park’s nighttime realm, where cherished moments, celestial wonders, and the melodies of nature unite to create an unforgettable camping experience.
Nearby
Petty’s Meat Market- great place to pick up sandwiches and sides on the way in to the park. Limited parking. You can call ahead to have your order waiting for you. They don’t open until 10am and they are closed on Sundays.
Three Odd Guys Brewing– fun place to grab a flight and a bite after a day of paddling. About 5 miles from the park in Historic Downtown Apopka.
Boston Coffeehouse– 15-20min from the park but it’s a great place to stop on your way in or out if you are traveling via I-4. It’s is a strip mall so there’s parking. The food is great.
Wekiwa Springs State Park Photos
Conclusion- Camping at Wekiwa Springs State Park
So what are you waiting for?
Embarking on a camping adventure at Wekiwa Springs State Park unveils a world of natural beauty and exhilarating experiences.
From spacious campsites surrounded by lush greenery to encounters with Florida’s diverse wildlife, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable getaway.
Discover the tranquility of the park’s pristine springs, relish the serenity of an early morning river paddle and embrace the essence of REAL Florida. Wekiwa Springs State Park welcomes you to embark on a journey into nature.
Already Thinking of Your Next Adventure?
Check out our post on camping at Hillsborough River State Park, our videos for camping on Siesta Key Beach at Turtle Beach campground or venturing up to beautiful North Carolina to enjoy charming Asheville and stay at this great location on the river.
Let the adventure continue…
Happy camping!
