Livingston Creek Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
00 review851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST, FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Livingston Creek Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
$8.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Reservations are required for all 10 campsites. Fees range from $8 to $10 per night depending on the site and season. Additional fees may include taxes and service charges from Reserve America.
About this campground
Nestled within the ancient landscapes of Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, Livingston Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Florida wilderness experience. This intimate retreat features 10 primitive campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings where stories unfold beneath starlit skies. Originally designed as a haven for hunting enthusiasts, the campground has evolved into a year-round escape for those craving solitude and connection with nature. Essential amenities including fresh drinking water, convenient port-o-lets, and waste disposal facilities ensure comfort without compromising the raw beauty of primitive camping.
Livingston Creek Campground supports a mix of primitive, RV, and tent camping. Group camping is limited to a day-use pavilion.
Historical SignificanceStep back millions of years to when Livingston Creek's ridge stood as a solitary island above prehistoric seas. This remarkable geological history has created one of Florida's most extraordinary natural treasures – a living museum where ancient isolation fostered the evolution of plant species found nowhere else on Earth. Today's campers walk the same elevated grounds that once served as a refuge for unique flora and fauna, making every visit a journey through deep time and ecological wonder.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's most inviting camping conditions throughout the year at Livingston Creek, where gentle temperatures create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. The campground enjoys a delightful mix of sunny days and refreshing rainfall that keeps the landscape vibrant and alive. During peak camping weeks, crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above, while humidity levels shift from crisp, dry mornings to the warm, tropical embrace of afternoon. Each season brings its own charm – from cool, comfortable winters ideal for hiking to balmy summer evenings perfect for gathering around the campfire.
ElevationThe campground rests atop one of Florida's most distinctive topographical features, offering a subtle yet significant change from the surrounding lowlands that enhances both drainage and scenic vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting Florida scrub ecosystem, where twisted sand pines and ancient oaks create a canopy of shade and mystery. Wildlife enthusiasts will discover a paradise of birdsong at dawn, while patient observers might glimpse deer, wild turkey, or the occasional black bear. Cast a line in nearby waters teeming with bass and bream, or explore miles of hiking trails that wind through this botanical wonderland. The unique geological foundation has cultivated a landscape unlike any other in Florida – where sandy soils nurture rare wildflowers and the air carries the sweet scent of native blooms.
Geological RegionLivingston Creek Campground sits atop the legendary Lake Wales Ridge, a narrow spine of ancient sand that tells the story of Florida's dramatic past. This extraordinary ridge, formed when ocean levels were hundreds of feet higher, created an isolated island ecosystem that became an evolutionary laboratory. Today, this geological marvel harbors the highest concentration of rare and endangered plant species in the southeastern United States, making it a destination of global ecological significance. The distinctive sandy soils and unique hydrology of this ancient island ridge continue to support a scrub ecosystem found nowhere else, offering campers a chance to experience one of North America's oldest and most biodiverse landscapes.
Campsite details
Sites SizePads are 12 ft wide by 60 ft long, suitable for Class B or Class C RVs up to 32 ft in length.
Sites PrivacySites are adequately spaced and separated by brush and trees, providing privacy. One user noted, 'Campsites are separated by brush and trees, which offers privacy.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Site 8 for shade and privacy, but bring additional shade solutions. Trail sites are recommended for quieter experiences.
Best CampsitesSite 8 is noted for its shade, but receives direct sunlight by 9 AM. Primitive trail sites offer natural privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Camping is allowed during hunting season only.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates up to 8 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 10 primitive campsites arranged around a central loop.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open during hunting season only.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made via Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityOnly one site is available for walk-up reservations at the Reedy Creek area.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not detailed but are likely governed by Reserve America's regulations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is a hub for outdoor activities, particularly during hunting season. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, bicycling, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. There is a strong emphasis on exploring the diverse Florida landscapes via hiking trails.
Hiking
Multiple hiking trails are available, including 25 miles on the Arbuckle Tract. These trails traverse diverse terrains such as forest wetlands and dry scrub communities. A camper noted, 'The hiking here explores so many different Florida landscapes and really hits home with my native Florida blood.'Fishing
Fishing is available within 10 miles of the campground. Details on fish types or specific fishing locations are not provided.Biking
Biking is supported on trails and roads within the area, but there are no detailed descriptions of trail terrains or challenges.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with the area being home to a variety of species, as noted in its designation as part of the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings and grills.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and raccoons, as well as noise from nearby roads and airboats. Users should store food appropriately and drive only on designated forest roads.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services include the Ranger Station, accessible via phone at 8635890545. Additional details about specific hospitals or police stations are unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesHunting season only; specific dates are not provided.
Trash and recyclingA garbage dumpster is available at the campsite for waste disposal. A locking bar is installed to prevent wildlife from accessing the trash, as noted by a user: 'The dumpster was a good distance away from the sites and did have a locking bar in case critters came by.'
Proximity to water featuresLivingston Creek runs near the campground, and Lake Arbuckle is in the vicinity.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of shade at most sites, noise from neighboring campers, and road traffic. Some grills and fire rings show signs of wear and rust.
HostRangers patrol the area occasionally, offering assistance when needed.
Campground Map
851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST, FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Driving directionsFrom US highway 27: Turn onto county road 630A. At the stop sign, turn left onto county road 630 East. Proceed through Frostproof, past the McDonald's, over the railroad tracks, then right onto Lake Reedy Blvd where the 'Lake Arbuckle Campground' and the 'Great Florida Birding Trail' signs are located. Follow Lake Reedy Blvd, about one mile after the blinking yellow light, turn left onto Lake Arbuckle Rd. Turn right onto Rucks Dairy Rd (a paved road). After driving about a mile down Rucks Dairy Rd, you will go over the bridge over Livingston Creek. The road splits here: continuing right on Rucks Dairy Rd leads to Reedy Creek Primitive Campground, while taking the road to the left leads to School Bus Rd, the main road in the Arbuckle Tract. From SR 60: Turn right onto county road 630 East. Proceed west on county road 630 East until reaching Walk In Water Road, then turn left. After turning left onto Walk In Water Rd, proceed to the stoplight and turn left onto Lake Reedy Blvd. Follow Lake Reedy Blvd, about one mile after the blinking yellow light, turn left onto Lake Arbuckle Rd. Turn right onto Rucks Dairy Rd (a paved road). After driving about a mile down Rucks Dairy Rd, you will go over the bridge over Livingston Creek. The road splits here: continuing right on Rucks Dairy Rd leads to Reedy Creek Primitive Campground, while taking the road to the left leads to School Bus Rd, the main road in the Arbuckle Tract.
Access involves a mix of paved roads and rural routes. Seasonal closures are not explicitly mentioned, but users should be mindful of hunting seasons and potential road noise from local traffic.Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Frostproof, which is the nearest city. Mention of specific supply locations within Frostproof is not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Livingston Creek Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has mixed reviews, with some campers praising its privacy, cleanliness, and natural beauty, while others cite issues such as noise from airboats and campers, lack of shade, and road traffic.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the privacy offered by brush and tree-separated sites, the cleanliness of port-o-lets, and the natural surroundings. 'If you like being by yourself, this is the place,' one camper...
Show more
Common Concerns
Recurring complaints include noise from nearby roads and airboats, lack of shade, and broken or outdated amenities like grills. One reviewer mentioned, 'Most of the sites are almost no shade,' while...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the lack of amenities and preparing for a primitive camping experience. Additionally, they suggest visiting during quieter times and bringing...
Show more
Seasonal Insights
Winter appears to be a preferred season due to cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. However, hunting season might increase occupancy and noise levels.
Camper Quotes
- 'The hiking here explores so many different Florida landscapes and really hits home with my native Florida blood.'
- 'Campsites are separated by brush and trees, which offers privacy.'
- 'The...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 8 is noted as having some shade but receives direct sunlight by mid-morning. 'No one ever camps there,' one camper mentioned regarding the hunting camp area.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is dog-friendly, and reviewers noted bringing their pets. 'And my dog loves it too! Bring your pup!' one camper enthusiastically noted.
Last updated August 10, 2025