Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

4.76

41 reviews

Quick Facts

125 ft

Price

$18 - $6/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Florida State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

125 ft

Price

$18 - $6/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Florida State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

$18.00 - $6.00 / night

Campsite Fees

All reservations incur a flat fee of $ 6.

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

4.76

Top-Rated

Based on 41 reviews

39 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hikingstafffriendly

"No direct user reviews were provided in the source material."

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Campground Map

Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

27.4711, -81.5306

Best Time to Camp at Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

Central Florida's subtropical climate creates year-round camping opportunities at Highlands Hammock. Mild, dry winters (December-February) bring comfortable temperatures in the 60s-70s, perfect for hiking beneath the ancient oaks without the summer humidity. Spring through fall sees warmer days with afternoon showers that refresh the hammock's lush vegetation, while summer temperatures reach the 80s-90s. Unlike northern forests, the change of seasons here is subtle but magical—marked more by shifting wildlife activity and flowering cycles than by falling leaves, allowing you to immerse yourself in this unique ecosystem any time of year.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summers are hot/humid in Florida; site text mentions summer activities but no swim areas.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall likely milder and pleasant for trails; specific seasonal reviews not provided.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring wildflower blooms and gentle breezes are specifically noted in seasonal info.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Mild Florida winters are comfortable for hiking and wildlife viewing; no winter sports.

Planning Tips

About Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

Please note: The family campground, primitive wilderness area, and Cypress Swamp Trail catwalk are temporarily closed for renovations. During this time, the Youth Camp and Group camps remain open for organized groups like scouts. Visitors can still enjoy the accessible boardwalk at the Cypress Swamp trailhead, which offers beautiful swamp views and leads to a scenic vista.

The Wild Campground is a primitive camping area meant for tents and pop-up trailers. It is not equipped for RVs or modern conveniences like electricity and water hookups.

Historical SignificanceThis land holds stories spanning centuries, from ancient indigenous peoples who first called these grounds home to early settlers who forged new paths through the wilderness. Remnants of their presence can still be discovered along historic trails and sacred sites. The area has served as a gathering place for generations, where traditions were passed down around campfires and connections to the land ran deep. Today's visitors become part of this continuing legacy, creating their own memories while honoring those who came before.

Weather and SeasonsCentral Florida's subtropical climate creates year-round camping opportunities at Highlands Hammock. Mild, dry winters (December-February) bring comfortable temperatures in the 60s-70s, perfect for hiking beneath the ancient oaks without the summer humidity. Spring through fall sees warmer days with afternoon showers that refresh the hammock's lush vegetation, while summer temperatures reach the 80s-90s. Unlike northern forests, the change of seasons here is subtle but magical—marked more by shifting wildlife activity and flowering cycles than by falling leaves, allowing you to immerse yourself in this unique ecosystem any time of year.

ElevationPerched at an elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere, this campground provides stunning vantage points without the challenges of extreme altitude. The varied terrain creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems, from shaded valleys where cool air settles to sun-warmed ridges with panoramic views. This unique positioning allows visitors to experience both the intimacy of forested hollows and the expansive beauty of elevated landscapes.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into one of Florida's most biodiverse treasures, where 15 distinct natural communities flourish across 9,000+ pristine acres. Ancient live oaks over 1,000 years old tower above you, their massive branches draped with ferns and air plants, while winding trails lead you through old-growth hydric hammock, mysterious cypress swamps, and rare habitats like cutthroat seeps and scrubby flatwoods. This central Florida gem protects the highest concentration of endemic species found in any Florida State Park, offering nature lovers an unforgettable journey through landscapes that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

Geological RegionSet within a fascinating geological wonderland, this campground showcases millions of years of Earth's history written in stone. Ancient rock formations tell tales of prehistoric seas, volcanic activity, and the patient work of wind and water. Unique geological features create a dramatic backdrop for your camping adventure, with exposed cliff faces revealing colorful mineral deposits and weathered boulders providing natural playgrounds. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve, shaped by the same forces that created its spectacular features over eons.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Groups

Group camping options are not mentioned in the provided information.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

AccessibilityNo specified accessibility features are mentioned in the provided information.

Site SizeThe campsites feature gravel driveways with varying maximum vehicle lengths ranging from 25 to 50 feet, and pad lengths matching these dimensions.

PrivacyThe sites are generally in a natural setting with partial shade. Specific privacy levels are not detailed, but the lack of modern facilities suggests a quieter, more secluded experience.

Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Wild Campground provides access to the broader recreational offerings of Highlands Hammock State Park. Visitors can enjoy trails amidst the park's exceptional biodiversity, including rare and endemic species. Activities include hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.

HikingHighlands Hammock State Park offers nine trails, including an elevated boardwalk through a cypress swamp. These trails allow visitors to observe the park's diverse flora and fauna, such as Florida panthers, black bears, alligators, and various bird species.

BikingA 3-mile bike loop is available for visitors, offering a scenic and leisurely experience.

Wildlife viewingThe park is known for its exceptional biodiversity, including rare and endemic species. Wildlife such as Florida panthers, black bears, deer, alligators, and various bird species can be observed.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Civilian Conservation Corps Museum offers insights into the history of the CCC and its contributions to the park. Visitors can also see a CCC statue and explore facilities constructed by the CCC.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

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

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

Reviews

4.8

41 reviews

Top-Rated

Highlands Hammock State Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

No direct user reviews were provided in the source material.

Review Summaries

Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

Beautiful old-growth hammock and diverse habitats represent 'Real Florida'; friendly staff, well-kept facilities, abundant wildlife sightings, fun hiking trails, vibrant year-round spot[1][3][5][6].

Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

No user-specific complaints were mentioned. Official details highlight the lack of modern amenities such as showers, water, and electricity.

Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive before 5 PM if late due to gates closing at sunset; observe quiet hours from 11 PM; check-out at 1 PM; trailer horses for equestrian sites; contact park for late arrivals; tram tours book...

Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No seasonal information is included in the source materials.

Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

No user quotes are available.

Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground features sites P001-P016, each accommodating up to 2 tents or pop-up trailers. Sites are within 350 feet of composting toilets and have a maximum occupancy of 8 people and 2 vehicles.

Based on 41 reviews