How much does camping cost at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Camping fees at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest range from $14/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest first-come first-served or reservation?

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest is open Peak season dates are not indicated.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Fire policies at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest: Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings and grills.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest have?

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest has 8 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Yes, pets are allowed at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest offers: Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest?

Popular activities at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

1 review

851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

98 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

98 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

Get Directions

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

$14.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Base campsite fees are $14 per night for up to 5 people and two cars. Each additional individual costs $2.00, and each additional car costs $5.00.

Standard Site Fee$14.00

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Campground Map

851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States

Nearby places

Lakeland (44 miles SE)

Lake Wales (approximately 10 miles NW)

Frostproof (proximate, precise distance unspecified)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be obtained in Frostproof, including groceries, fuel, and other essentials. Specific supplier locations in Frostproof are not detailed.

Driving directionsFrom US highway 27 you will: Turn onto County Road 630A on left At stop sign turn to the left onto County Road 630 East Proceed through Frostproof, past the McDonald's, over the railroad tracks, then left onto Walk-In-The-Water Rd Follow Walk-In-The Water Rd, about ¼ mile after turning left to Walk In Water Primitive Campground Turn left onto entrance road (a shellrock road). You are now on the state forest and should arrive at Walk In Water Primitive Campground From SR 60 you will: Proceed on SR 60 through Lake Wales and turn right onto Walk-In-The Water Road - just past Jay-Bees Restaurant on left Proceed south on Walk-In-The Water Road about 4 miles Look for entrance road to Walk In Water Primitive Campground on right Turn right into Walk In Water Campground.

The campground is accessible via paved main roads initially, but the entrance road is described as a shellrock road. Caution may be needed for vehicles not suited for rough terrain. No public vehicle access is permitted on Walk In Water tract.

Weather at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

Current alert: No active alerts are listed in the source materials.

Best Time to Camp at Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

Winter is the comfortable season here. Expect daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F and mornings in the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. Low humidity and fewer mosquitoes make early-morning birding and hiking more pleasant. Trails stay dry and crowds thin out. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms and humidity. Deer flies can be a problem during certain seasons according to visitor reports. Check for hunting-season notices before visiting and wear blaze orange during firearm seasons.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Winter noted as comfortable with mid-60s–70s highs, low humidity and fewer mosquitoes.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are not indicated.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round availability, with specific recommendations for safety during hunting seasons.

About Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

Walk In The Water Campground offers eight primitive sites in Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, split between tent-only (sites 1-3, 5) and RV/tent options (sites 4, 6-8). The campground sits at 98 feet elevation on ancient scrubland and charges $14 per night with advance reservations required. Expect fire rings, picnic tables, portable toilets, and a dumpster. But no potable water onsite.

The campground accommodates both primitive and RV/tent camping setups, with specific sites designated for each. Group camping and cabin lodging are not available.

Historical Significance

The Lake Wales Ridge formed as a prehistoric island when ocean levels were much higher. Millions of years of isolation on this ancient highland created conditions for species evolution found nowhere else, turning the ridge into one of North America's most important biodiversity centers. The sand beneath your tent was deposited by ancient seas and sculpted by wind over geological timescales.

Weather and SeasonsWinter is the comfortable season here. Expect daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F and mornings in the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. Low humidity and fewer mosquitoes make early-morning birding and hiking more pleasant. Trails stay dry and crowds thin out. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms and humidity. Deer flies can be a problem during certain seasons according to visitor reports. Check for hunting-season notices before visiting and wear blaze orange during firearm seasons.

ElevationPerched atop the ancient Lake Wales Ridge, the campground occupies one of peninsular Florida's most distinctive topographical features. This prehistoric highland, sculpted by millions of years of geological forces, rises subtly but significantly above the surrounding landscape. The ridge's unique elevation creates distinct microclimates and ecological niches that support the area's remarkable biodiversity, offering campers a rare opportunity to experience Florida's ancient high ground.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a narrow ridge of ancient sand deposited when sea levels were dramatically higher millions of years ago. Twisted sand pines and scrub oaks grow from soils found nowhere else on Earth, creating habitat for the highest concentration of rare and endangered plants in the continental United States. Black bears and raccoons move through the palmetto understory. The open scrub canopy makes for good stargazing. Reviewers mention access to Big Bay Trail and Scrub Jay Loop for exploring the unique ecosystem.

Geological RegionThe Lake Wales Ridge State Forest showcases one of Florida's most remarkable geological treasures—a narrow spine of ancient sand running north to south through the heart of the peninsula. Formed when sea levels were dramatically higher, this prehistoric island refuge now stands as the highest concentration of rare and endangered plants in the continental United States. The ridge's unique sandy soils, deposited by ancient seas and sculpted by millions of years of wind and weather, create growing conditions found nowhere else on Earth. This geological marvel supports an irreplaceable scrub ecosystem where evolution has crafted species perfectly adapted to the challenging conditions, making every visit a journey through deep time and natural history.

Scenic ViewsShade-lined oak trails offer scenic views, while the surrounding scrub ecosystem provides a unique natural backdrop.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or alternative accommodations are available on-site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information about cultural or educational programs is provided.

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Stay Limit

14-Night Maximum Stay. After 14 nights, campers must leave Lake Wales Ridge State Forest and any of its campgrounds for a minimum of 3 nights before booking another stay.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Base campsite fees include 5 people. Additional individuals cost $2.00 each.

Groups

Group camping is not available at this location.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites 1-3 and 5 are tent-only and grouped away from vehicle parking. Sites 4, 6-8 accommodate RVs and tents.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made in advance for all sites. Specific websites or platforms for reservations are not mentioned.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is permitted; all reservations must be made in advance.

Cancellation PolicyRules for cancellations are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Site SizeCampsites vary between tent-only and RV/tent sites. Tent-only sites include 1-3 and 5, while RV/tent sites include 4, 6-8.

PrivacyDetails about the level of privacy at campsites are not provided.

Total Campsites8 campsites

Recommended SitesTent-only campsites are located at sites 1-3 and 5, with parking only available in the main campground area. RV/tent camping is available at sites 4 and 6-8. Visitors should choose sites based on their camping setup.

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Amenities available

Walk In the Water Campground is located within Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, offering a blend of basic amenities suited for primitive camping. The campground features eight campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Two non-flushable portable toilets and a dumpster are available on-site for waste disposal. However, potable water and electricity are not provided. Campers are explicitly advised to bring their own drinking water. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, and day-use facilities like a pavilion are available by reservation only.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

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RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides opportunities for a variety of recreational activities, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, hunting, bicycling, horseback riding, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Several trails are accessible, including the Big Bay Trail and Scrub Jay Loop, which traverse diverse ecosystems such as wetlands and ancient scrub communities.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife such as bears and raccoons pose a potential hazard; food safety measures are emphasized. The campground lacks potable water, and visitors must bring their own drinking supplies.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; only portable toilets are provided.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in designated fire rings and grills.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services are located at LWRSF Headquarters (Lake Wales Ridge State Forest Headquarters) at 851 County Road 630 East, Frostproof, FL 33843.

Trash & RecyclingA dumpster is provided on-site for waste disposal. No recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is near Park Lake and has access to fishing in rivers/streams. Detailed proximity measurements are not provided.

Camp HostHost information is not provided.

Cell CoverageNo information about cell phone reception is explicitly provided in the available source materials.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

0.0

1 reviews

Limited Reviews

Walk In The Water Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User experiences highlight the primitive and secluded nature of the campground. Activities like hiking and fishing are praised, but the lack of basic amenities like potable water is commonly noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciate the natural setting and access to diverse trails such as the Big Bay Trail and Scrub Jay Loop. Wildlife viewing and the peaceful environment are frequently praised.

Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

Lack of potable water and electricity, as well as the presence of insects such as deer flies during certain seasons, are common complaints.

Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No detailed site-specific reviews are available, but Sites 1-3 and 5 are tent-only, while Sites 4 and 6-8 accommodate RVs and tents.

Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing plenty of drinking water, bug spray, and wearing Day-Glo orange during hunting seasons for safety. Secure food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.

Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Deer flies can be a nuisance at certain times of the year, and the campground is recommended for cooler seasons due to a lack of shade and water facilities.

Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bay Loop is a relaxing hike, mostly through a shady oak-lined trail. Be sure to bring water and bug spray. At different times of the year, the deer flies are bad."

Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no reviews explicitly addressing accessibility features.

Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets must be leashed, with a maximum leash length of 10 feet. No specific user reviews mention pet-related experiences.

Based on 1 reviews

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Go if

Hikers and birders chasing rare scrub habitat will find the Big Bay Trail and Scrub Jay Loop right from camp, active Florida Scrub-Jay territory, good stargazing through the open canopy, and $14/night rates that make a week-long stay easy on the wallet.

Skip if

No potable water onsite is a hard logistical reality, every drop must come with you. Add deer flies in warmer months and a summer heat/humidity score of 2/5, and anyone who didn't plan for truly primitive conditions will be miserable fast.

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Walk In The Water Primitive Hike-In Campsites Lake Wales Ridge State Forest

851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST , FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States

Two primitive hike-in sites sit deep in Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, accessible only via the Big Bay Trail. Black Bear and Wood Duck campsites accommodate up to 8 people each and provide fire rings and picnic tables. Nothing else. You'll carry in your own water and camp without electricity or modern facilities. Contact the forest headquarters before heading out.