Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
4.676 reviews851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietGreat HikingSummer Destination
Quick Facts
85 ftPrice
$2 - $5/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
5 campsites
Season
Campsites may be flo...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Very Pet Friendly
Quick Facts
85 ftPrice
$2 - $5/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
5 campsites
Season
Campsites may be flo...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Very Pet Friendly
Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
$2.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Base campsite fees include $2 per additional individual and $5 per additional car. Advanced registration is required for all sites.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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What Campers Say
4.67
Top-Rated
Based on 6 reviews
71 Google reviews
Most mentioned
shadesites
"The Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites are highly praised for their seclusion, natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities. User reviews consistently highlight the pristine wilderness setting."
Campground Map
851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Driving directionsFrom US Highway 27, turn left onto County Road 630A. At the stop sign, turn to the left onto County Road 630 East. Proceed east through Frostproof, past the McDonald's, over the railroad tracks, then turn right onto Lake Reedy Blvd. Follow Lake Reedy Blvd (around the lake), then keep going until one mile after passing Blue Jordan Rd (on the left), you will turn left onto Lake Arbuckle Rd. Turn right onto Rucks Dairy Rd (a paved road). You are now in the state forest (north Arbuckle Tract). After driving about a mile down Rucks Dairy Rd, you will go over a bridge over Livingston Creek. Here, the road splits; turn left onto School Bus Rd. Creekside, Lakeside, and Hidden Hammock primitive campsites may be accessed from hiking trails (Florida Trail System Loop Trail) from parking areas or service roads located off School Bus Rd. Grave Island primitive campsite may be accessed off a hiking trail entrance from Rucks Dairy Rd that crosses over Livingston Creek. Isabell primitive campsite may be accessed off a hiking trail closest to Tram Rd from South Arbuckle. From SR 60, turn right onto County Road 630 East. Proceed west on County Road 630 East until reaching Walk In Water Road/Blue Jordan Road, then turn left. After turning left onto Blue Jordan Road, proceed to the stop light and turn left onto Lake Reedy Blvd. Follow Lake Reedy Blvd, about one mile after the blinking yellow light, you will turn left onto Lake Arbuckle Rd. Turn right onto Rucks Dairy Rd (a paved road). Proceed as described above.
The campground is accessible via paved routes, including Rucks Dairy Rd and School Bus Rd within the Arbuckle Tract. Some entrances might be locked except during hunting seasons, and gate codes may be required for access to certain campsites like Isabell or Grave Island.Nearby places
Frostproof (approx. 5 miles, 10 minutes), Babson Park (approx. 15 miles, 25 minutes), Lakeland (approx. 44 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Frostproof (approx. 5 miles away). Additional services in nearby Babson Park and Lakeland.
Best Time to Camp at Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
The magic of camping here truly unfolds during Florida's cooler months, when crisp winter mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons perfect for exploration. From late fall through early spring, you'll enjoy moderate temperatures that make hiking comfortable and evenings around the fire ring delightful. Clear, star-filled skies become your nightly entertainment during these dry months. However, nature has its moods—during wet periods, some campsites may temporarily flood, transforming the landscape into a watery wonderland that's best admired from higher ground. Plan your visit between November and March for the most reliable conditions and comfortable camping weather.
Summer(Jun-Aug)
2.0 / 5
Campers prefer cooler months; summer brings heat, humidity and higher flood potential.
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5
Late fall is called out as a good time; cooler conditions improve hiking and wildlife viewing.
Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5
Spring is pleasant but can trend warmer and wetter than winter; good for trails/wildlife with some heat risk.
Best
Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.5 / 5
Top 12% in FLWinter's crisp mornings and sunlit afternoons are described as the best window for exploration.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: Campsites may be flooded during wet periods; seasonal accessibility issues are implied.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts were mentioned in the authoritative content.
About Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
Deep within the Arbuckle Tract of Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, a network of primitive hike-in campsites awaits those seeking true wilderness solitude. Each secluded site comes equipped with just the essentials—a sturdy picnic table and fire ring—inviting you to disconnect from modern conveniences and reconnect with nature. With no electricity or potable water available, these backcountry sites offer an authentic camping experience where the only sounds breaking the silence are rustling palmettos and calling scrub-jays. The journey begins on foot, as these hidden gems are accessible only by trail, ensuring your camping neighbors are fellow adventurers who appreciate the rewards of earning their campsite through effort and exploration.
The Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites are designed for primitive tent camping, emphasizing a secluded and natural experience. All sites require hike-in access, with no vehicle accommodations at the campsites.
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not clearly mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational activities are available at the Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites, catering to both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. These include hiking, fishing, hunting, bicycling, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The forest's diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to scrub communities, enhance the camping experience.
HikingThe campground is part of the Florida Trail System and offers access to over 25 miles of trails. Hikers can explore a mix of terrains, including forest wetlands and ancient dry scrub communities. The trails are mostly shaded, passing through mature scrub, native slash pines, and oak hammocks.
FishingFishing is permitted and supported, particularly along Reedy Creek. Campers have noted the serene environment, with some even canoeing to reach fishing spots.
SwimmingSome campers swim in Reedy Creek when water levels are sufficient, offering a refreshing way to enjoy the campground's natural setting.
BikingThe trails are suitable for off-road biking, providing a thrilling experience through the diverse forest landscape.
BoatingBoaters can access Reedy Creek, with some campers canoeing to explore the area or reach secluded spots.
Wildlife viewingThe diverse ecosystems in the state forest host a range of wildlife. Visitors may encounter bears, raccoons, and other native species. Day-Glo orange is recommended during hunting seasons for safety.
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Policies & Safety
Hazards & AlertsBears, raccoons, and other wildlife frequent the area. Flooding may occur during wet periods. Visitors should store food appropriately, bring potable water, and wear Day-Glo orange during hunting seasons.
Active AlertsNo active alerts were mentioned in the authoritative content.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Weather at Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
Reviews
4.7
6 reviews
Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Arbuckle Primitive Hike-In Campsites are highly praised for their seclusion, natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities. User reviews consistently highlight the pristine wilderness setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the 'primitive campsites along miles of trails,' the 'lovely mostly shaded trails,' and the sense of solitude, as noted by one reviewer: 'Walk for miles and hardly ever see another...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews point out that access to certain areas may be restricted due to locked gates, and the lack of potable water requires preparation. One user stated, 'Bring water, study the map or take a...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water, using Day-Glo orange during hunting seasons, and taking photos of maps for navigation. One reviewer suggested, 'Check out Lake Godwin to the southeast off...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Campers prefer visiting during cooler months to avoid the summer heat and enjoy more comfortable hiking conditions. Wildlife viewing and off-road biking are popular year-round.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Lovely primitive campsites are available along the miles of trails.' - Rodney's Marine Canvas
2. 'We swim in the creek if the water levels are up.' - LuLu
3. 'Fantastic place to park your RV or...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Creekside, Lakeside, and Hidden Hammock sites are frequently mentioned for their accessibility from the Florida Trail System Loop Trail. Grave Island and Isabell sites require access via specific...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features, but the hike-in requirement may limit options for those with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and must be leashed. No specific user reviews address pet experiences, but the policy is noted in the authoritative content.
Based on 6 reviews0
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Last updated February 17, 2026
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