three lakes WMA campground

For Floridians eager to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty, Three Lakes WMA Campground in Kenansville offers an authentic primitive camping experience. Located within the expansive Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area, this campground is a haven for those who appreciate undeveloped wilderness, abundant wildlife, and outdoor pursuits like hunting and hiking. It's a place where you trade modern conveniences for the raw beauty of Florida's prairies and pine flatwoods, providing a refreshing contrast to the more developed campsites found elsewhere.

Three Lakes WMA is part of Florida's crucial network of conservation lands, managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). These areas are dedicated to protecting diverse ecosystems and providing opportunities for resource-based recreation. The campground within Three Lakes WMA aligns perfectly with this mission, offering a "primitive" camping style. This means campers should arrive prepared for a self-sufficient experience, bringing all necessary supplies and adhering to Leave No Trace principles. It’s an ideal setting for those who genuinely want to "rough it" and connect deeply with the natural environment.

The reviews from fellow Floridians highlight both the simplicity and the unique appeal of Three Lakes WMA Campground. It's noted for its basic facilities – primarily vault toilets and no hookups or potable water – emphasizing its true primitive nature. This can be a benefit for campers who prefer minimalist camping and are equipped for it, as it helps maintain the wild character of the area. The campground's popularity, especially during hunting seasons and weekends, also speaks to its value for specific recreational communities. For locals seeking a genuinely wild Florida camping adventure, Three Lakes WMA offers a distinct and memorable opportunity to experience the state's untamed side.

It is important to understand that this is not a luxury RV park or a campground with extensive amenities. Rather, it is a gateway to a vast wildlife management area, catering to hunters, hikers, and those seeking solitude in nature. Being prepared for a rustic experience is key to enjoying all that Three Lakes WMA Campground has to offer in the heart of Florida.

Three Lakes WMA Campground is situated at Florida Trail, Kenansville, FL 34739, USA. Kenansville is a small, unincorporated community located in Osceola County, Florida, known for its rural character and proximity to expansive natural areas. This makes the campground's location ideal for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience away from the bustling urban centers of Florida.

The campground's address on the "Florida Trail" is indicative of its primary access and the type of recreational opportunities it offers. The Florida Trail is a designated National Scenic Trail, popular among long-distance hikers and backpackers. While the exact access point may vary within the vast WMA, one common entry for the Prairie Lakes Unit (which contains some camp sites) is off Canoe Creek Road. Another notable entrance is off US 441, north of the Kenansville Country Store.

Despite its remote feel, the campground is not entirely isolated from essential services. Reviews mention that it is "about 30 minutes to Walmart, Publix, Planet Fitness, gas." This proximity to everyday conveniences like grocery stores (Walmart, Publix) and fuel stations, typically found in larger towns like St. Cloud or Kissimmee, provides a practical balance for campers. It allows for resupply trips without having to travel excessively far from the wilderness setting.

Accessibility during hunting seasons is a key consideration. As it's a "hunt camp," weekends, particularly during hunting periods, tend to be busier. This implies that while vehicular access to designated hunt camps is generally possible, unpaved roads and specific entry points associated with the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) are common. Visitors should consult FWC regulations and maps for the most accurate access information, especially if towing. The overall location caters to those who prioritize deep nature immersion with the pragmatic benefit of relatively close access to town amenities.

Three Lakes WMA Campground is designed for primitive camping, meaning it offers minimal services to maintain its natural, undeveloped character. This type of camping requires self-sufficiency from visitors. Based on available public information, here are the services typically provided:

• PVault Toilets: The campground provides basic "vault toilets," which are non-flushing restrooms consisting of a privacy shelter built over a pit. These are the primary restroom facilities available.
• PHunter Camp Access (Seasonal): During hunting seasons, the campground serves as a hunt camp, providing designated spaces for hunters. Access to specific hunter campsites may be first-come, first-served and may not require a permit.
• PDesignated Primitive Campsites: Various designated primitive campsites are available. Some, like those in the Prairie Lakes Unit, may require a free, no-cost camping permit obtained from the FWC, and are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
• PTrash Management (Pack It In, Pack It Out): Critically, the campground does "no trash cans." This means campers are fully responsible for packing out all their trash and leaving no trace behind, a fundamental principle of primitive camping.
• PFire Rings/Grills (Limited): While "no fire rings" are mentioned in one review, other FWC descriptions for WMA campsites often indicate that fires are permitted only in provided fire rings or grills. Campers should verify if any designated fire rings exist at their specific site or be prepared to use personal stoves.

It is important to explicitly note what is generally NOT offered, based on reviews and the nature of primitive campgrounds:

• PNo Potable Water: Campers must bring all their own drinking water.
• PNo Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups for RVs or trailers. Some FWC guidelines explicitly state "No RVs or pull-behind trailers" are allowed in specific primitive sites, focusing solely on tent camping. However, some hunt camps may allow self-contained vehicles during hunting season.
• PNo Picnic Tables: Unless specifically provided at a particular site (some FWC listings for other Three Lakes WMA campsites mention picnic tables), campers should not expect picnic tables at all sites.
• PNo Showers: There are no shower facilities.
• PNo Office On-Site: There is no formal office on site for check-ins or immediate assistance. Management presence is periodic.

Three Lakes WMA Campground's features and highlights largely revolve around its rustic, natural environment and its appeal to specific types of outdoor enthusiasts.

• PPrimitive Wilderness Experience: This is the paramount highlight. The campground offers a genuine primitive camping experience, ideal for those who want to disconnect and immerse themselves in untouched Florida wilderness.
• PAccess to Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area: Being within a vast WMA provides incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching (over 180 species, including endangered ones like the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow), hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding on designated trails. It protects a significant portion of the Kissimmee Prairie.
• POpportunities for Hunting and Fishing: As a "hunt camp," it's a prime location for various hunting seasons (deer, turkey, wild hog, quail) and offers excellent fishing in nearby lakes (Kissimmee, Jackson, Marian) and canals.
• PFlorida Trail Access: Being located on the Florida Trail makes it a convenient and strategic stop for through-hikers and backpackers exploring this scenic route.
• PQuiet and Secluded (Generally): Outside of busy hunting weekends, the primitive nature ensures a quiet and secluded environment, perfect for solitude and enjoying nature's sounds.
• PClose to Basic Amenities (Relatively): Despite its wild setting, the convenience of being about 30 minutes from major stores like Walmart and Publix, as well as gas stations, is a practical highlight for resupplying.
• PCleanliness: One review notes the "campground was clean," which is a positive indicator of basic upkeep even in a primitive setting.
• POff-Road Access: The ability to access the campground via "Off Canoe Creek Rd" suggests a more rugged, less developed approach, appealing to those seeking an adventure.
• PYear-Round Access: The WMA itself is generally open year-round for public access, though specific camping rules may vary by season or hunting period.

It's important to reiterate the lack of common amenities like potable water, hookups, picnic tables, and showers, as this defines the "primitive" nature of the campground. Campers must be fully self-sufficient. Additionally, "very little shade" means sun protection is essential, and sites can get "very muddy after a rain storm," requiring preparedness for varied ground conditions.

Address: Florida Trail, Kenansville, FL 34739, USA

Phone: No specific phone number for Three Lakes WMA Campground is provided directly in the reviews. However, as it is part of a Wildlife Management Area managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), general inquiries or permit applications can typically be directed to the FWC. For Prairie Lakes Unit campsites, permits can be obtained via their online reservation system or by calling the FWC Northeast Regional Office at (352) 732-1225 during business hours. For general WMA information, the FWC website (MyFWC.com) is the primary resource.

For Floridians, Three Lakes WMA Campground in Kenansville offers a uniquely suitable camping experience, especially for those who genuinely seek a return to nature and an immersive outdoor adventure. It stands apart from the state's more developed campgrounds and RV resorts, appealing to a specific segment of the local population.

Firstly, its primitive nature is a major draw for locals who value self-sufficiency and genuine wilderness. In a state as developed as Florida, finding truly undeveloped camping can be a challenge. Three Lakes WMA provides just that – a place where you're expected to "bring and take everything in yourself," fostering a deep connection with the environment. This is perfect for experienced campers, backpackers, and outdoor survivalists looking to hone their skills or simply enjoy unadulterated nature. The "pack it in, pack it out" ethos aligns with strong environmental values prevalent among many Floridians who care deeply about preserving the state's unique ecosystems.

Secondly, its role as a "hunt camp" makes it exceptionally suitable for Florida's hunting community. Being a designated area within a Wildlife Management Area means it's set up to facilitate hunting seasons, providing a convenient and authorized base for pursuing deer, turkey, and other game. For local hunters, this direct access to prime hunting grounds without the need for extensive travel or private land permits is invaluable. The camaraderie often found in hunt camps, with fellow enthusiasts sharing experiences, adds another layer of suitability for this demographic.

Beyond hunting, the extensive recreational opportunities within the vast Three Lakes WMA itself make the campground attractive. Being able to step out of your tent and immediately access miles of hiking trails (including the Florida Trail), opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and even horseback riding (on designated trails) is a significant advantage. For Floridians looking for a weekend escape to fish in Lake Kissimmee or observe rare bird species, this campground serves as an ideal basecamp. The relative proximity (30 minutes) to essential amenities like Walmart and gas stations also provides a practical balance, allowing for resupply without completely disrupting the wilderness experience.

In conclusion, Three Lakes WMA Campground is not for everyone. It lacks the amenities of a typical campground, demanding preparedness and a love for the rustic. However, for those Floridians who embrace primitive camping, actively participate in hunting or serious hiking, and deeply appreciate untouched natural landscapes, this campground offers an unparalleled and highly suitable environment. It's a testament to Florida's wild heart, providing a vital space for locals to connect with the raw beauty of their state.

three lakes WMA campground

Florida Trail, Kenansville, FL 34739, USA