Sunday · September 29, 2024
Kilpatrick Hammock Campground: Equestrian Camping in Florida’s Kissimmee Prairie Preserve
Author: Admin
Kilpatrick Hammock Kissimmee Prairie Preserve in Florida | Top Horse Trails

Kilpatrick Hammock Campground, located within the expansive Kissimmee Prairie Preserve, offers a truly unique camping experience for equestrian enthusiasts. Dominated by the endless Florida sky and lush, grassy landscapes, the campground provides easy access to the largest remaining tract of dry prairie in the state. This region, part of the Everglades headwaters, is home to a variety of rare, threatened, and endangered species, making it a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and photographers alike.

Horse-Friendly Amenities

At Kilpatrick Hammock Campground, equestrian campers will find themselves well-equipped for a comfortable stay. Each of the 10 campsites offers a 50-amp electrical hookup and water access. In addition, every site includes its own paddock, allowing campers to bring their horses and explore the stunning prairie landscape. Water is provided in the southwestern-most paddocks, while a central community water source is located near the campground’s kiosk for convenience.

For added comfort, campers have access to a four-room ADA-accessible bathhouse, which serves the equestrian campground. If needed, equestrian visitors are also welcome to use the bathhouse located in the family camp loop, ensuring a well-rounded and convenient stay.

Explore Florida's Dry Prairie Ecosystem

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve is a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. Its wide-open landscape, shaped by natural cycles of flooding and fire, is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors have the unique opportunity to spot rare bird species such as the grasshopper sparrow, crested caracara, and burrowing owl. With the vast blue sky overhead and the sprawling prairie at your feet, bird watchers and photographers alike are treated to unforgettable views and sightings.

In addition to horseback riding, guests can explore the preserve’s hiking and biking trails that wind through this natural wonderland. For those looking to immerse themselves further in the wilderness, the preserve also offers three primitive campsites located 2.5 miles from the main office. These sites are accessible only by hiking or biking and offer a secluded camping experience with picnic tables and fire rings. However, campers should be prepared to pack in and pack out all supplies, including water, as no amenities are provided at the primitive sites.

A Perfect Escape for Equestrian and Nature Enthusiasts

Kilpatrick Hammock Campground in Kissimmee Prairie Preserve is a top-tier destination for equestrian campers and anyone looking to escape into the quiet beauty of Florida’s dry prairie. With its excellent horse-friendly amenities, easy access to pristine natural surroundings, and opportunities to witness rare wildlife, this campground offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

 

Facilities and Amenities at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve

  • Equestrian trails
  • Accessible amenities
  • Campgrounds
  • Nature trail
  • Parking
  • Restroom facilities
  • RV sites
  • Visitor Center
  • Picnic table and fire ring
  • Water and electrical services
  • Paddocks
  • Bathhouse

 

Horseback Riding:

Riding the trails on horseback is one of the best ways to see the preserve. With more than 100 miles of two-trail roads, horseback riders are apt to see an abundance of wildlife. The trails take you through dry prairie, moist wetlands, and cool, shady hammocks.

Bring your own horses and enjoy a day's ride, or stay overnight in our equestrian campground. Please be aware that trails are shared with hikers, bicyclists, and park vehicles. Pets must be on a six-foot hand-held leash and well-behaved at all times.

 

Cost Details:

  • $4 admission per vehicle (two to eight people).
  • $16 standard campsite per night plus tax, plus a nonrefundable 
  • $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee for RV, cabin, bungalow, boat, and yurt units.
  • $5 Primitive camping per person, per night, plus tax.

 

Notes:

  • Please call ahead to confirm paddock availability.
  • Areas for temporary fencing are available if the paddocks are full.
  • Pets are permitted in accordance with our Pet Policy.
  • Pets are not allowed in the wilderness primitive campsites.
  • Maximum recreational vehicle length is 65 feet.
  • Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
  • Contact Details: 863-462-5360

 

If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park - Kissimmee River National Scenic Trail

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park - Ozmore Kilpatrick Prairie Trails

Horse-trail_233171 

Horse-trail_232466 

 

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve requires reservations for overnight accommodations. For more information, please visit their page on Top Horse Trails - Kissimmee Prairie Preserve