Nearby attractions add to appeal of these Florida campgrounds

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Nearby attractions add to appeal of these Florida campgrounds

Canoeing, fishing, beaches are in your own back yard.

By Georgina Cruz | Special Correspondent
January 4, 2009

If a camping getaway may be in your future, here are a few options in various parts of Florida to help you plan:

Daytona Beach: Shaded by palms, the landscaped Nova Family Campground, 1190 Herbert St., has a heated pool and sandy beach. Amenities include free Wi-Fi. Cabins are available for rent. Area attractions include the Daytona International Speedway. Info: novacamp.com.

Fort Myers: The KOA Campground on Pine Island can be your home away from home in the tropical setting of the so-called "Tarpon Capital of the World." It has two clubhouses, a heated pool and hot tub. Other amenities include a lighted tennis court for evening play, lakeside sites and a free bus (available in winter) that goes to nearby beaches. Pastimes include the legendary shelling of this part of Florida and visits to nearby attractions include the Thomas Edison and Henry Ford Winter Estates at 2350 McGregor Blvd., in Fort Myers. Info: koa.com.

Orlando: Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground at Walt Disney World, set in 700 acres of pine and cypress forest, has a storybook quality — you feel that at any moment Tigger may come bouncing by. You are sure to see Chip and Dale, though, at the free nightly campfire program. Amenities include pools, white sandy beach, tennis courts, petting farm and free transportation to Disney parks. In addition to campsites, cabins are available for rent. Info: disneyworld.com.

St. Augustine: The Indian Forest Campground, 1505 State Road 207, is in a shaded, rural setting, yet close — five miles — to St. Augustine's historic center (five miles), three miles to shopping and 2.5 miles to a public golf course. For some good old-fashioned fun, play a game of horseshoes. Call 800-233-4324.

Venice: Looking to get away from it all? You may wish to check out the Camp Venice Retreat at 4085 E. Venice Ave. Located in an old-growth oak hammock along the Myakka River, it offers such activities as fishing and canoeing minutes from downtown Venice. Cabins are available. Info: campvenice.com.

Source: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/trave...,6944999.story