Reedy Creek Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
00 review851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST, FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Reedy Creek Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
$8.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
Sites cost between $8-$10 per night based on site type and amenities. Additional fees may apply for reservations made through Reserve America.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Reedy Creek Campground I, where eight secluded campsites await in the heart of the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest. Choose from five intimate tent-only spots or three RV-friendly sites, each offering a private retreat into Florida's wild beauty. Wake to the melodic calls of rare birds, spend your days exploring scenic hiking trails, or cast a line in peaceful waters. Your rustic basecamp comes equipped with the essentials—fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, and convenient port-o-let facilities—ensuring comfort without compromising your connection to nature.
Reedy Creek Campground provides primitive camping options with sites accommodating both tents and RVs. Group sites and other specialized accommodations are not explicitly mentioned. Advanced reservations are mandatory for all campsites, and the campground emphasizes a natural and low-impact camping experience.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping on living history—the Lake Wales Ridge stands as one of Florida's most ancient landscapes, a former island that harbored life when much of the peninsula lay beneath prehistoric seas. This ecological time capsule has evolved in isolation for millions of years, creating a biological treasure trove found nowhere else on Earth.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's distinctive ridge climate, where dry, comfortable conditions prevail through much of the year. Winter brings crisp, refreshing nights perfect for campfire stories, while summer transforms the landscape with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that nourish this unique ecosystem. Spring and fall offer the sweet spot—moderate temperatures ideal for outdoor adventures, with gentle breezes rustling through the ancient scrub.
ElevationPerched atop one of peninsular Florida's subtle high points, the campground offers a unique perspective on the state's ancient ridge system.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in one of North America's most extraordinary ecosystems, where twisted sand pines and gnarled scrub oaks create a landscape unlike anywhere else in Florida. This botanical wonderland harbors the continent's highest concentration of rare and endangered plant species, from delicate scrub blazing stars to ancient rosemary scrub. Wander from sun-drenched sandy hills into hidden wetland pockets, where each habitat reveals new natural treasures and wildlife encounters.
Geological RegionYour adventure unfolds atop the legendary Lake Wales Ridge, a narrow spine of ancient sand hills that tells a remarkable geological story. Formed millions of years ago as an isolated island chain, this ridge preserved a unique ecosystem while the rest of Florida emerged from the sea. Today, it stands as the continental United States' premier hotspot for rare and endangered plant species—a living museum of evolution where ancient species thrive in splendid isolation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampsites are marked and include picnic tables and fire rings. However, no specific details about ADA-compliant features are provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are equipped to accommodate up to 8 people per site, with site-specific details indicating a maximum equipment length of 15 feet for certain sites.
Sites PrivacySome user reviews mention privacy, with one stating, 'Campsites are separated by brush and trees, which offers privacy.' However, another reviewer noted limited shade and close proximity to roads, which could impact the sense of seclusion for some campers.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 8 is recommended for shade but has limited shade later in the day. Hunting camp sites on Reedy Creek II have better shade options.
Best CampsitesSite 8 is noted for having shade trees but receives direct sunlight by mid-morning. Primitive sites are recommended for privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed varies based on reservation policies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
No group camping sites are explicitly mentioned in the materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are separated by brush and trees for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America, likely online or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityOne site (Site 1) is available for walk-up reservations; all others require online reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made through Reserve America; additional fees and penalties may apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of outdoor activities is available, emphasizing the natural and rugged features of the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest. Campers can engage in hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and hunting. Additional activities include bicycling, horseback riding, and picnicking. The nearby birding trail and other natural attractions provide additional opportunities for exploration.
Hiking
The campground is located within a state forest that boasts 25 miles of hiking trails. According to an official source, 'Hiking trails cross a variety of terrains from forest wetlands to ancient, dry scrub communities.' One user noted, 'The hiking is absolutely amazing, and so many secret campsites to discover.' Another highlighted the diversity of landscapes, saying, 'Hiking here explores so many different Florida landscapes.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted, though no specific details about types of fish, fishing facilities, or regulations are provided.Biking
Bicycling is mentioned as an available activity, although no additional details on designated trails or terrain are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in the area, as the state forest is home to rare and endangered species. Official descriptions highlight the biodiversity: 'The scrub ecosystem that thrives on the ridge may have the highest concentration of rare and endangered plants in the continental United States.'Winter Activities
The sources do not specify any winter-specific activities or features.Water Sports
There is no mention of water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding within the campground. However, nearby attractions might offer such opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors are advised to store food properly due to the presence of bears, raccoons, and other wildlife.
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
Nearest emergency services include the LWRSF Headquarters located at 851 County Road 630 East, Frostproof, FL, which likely has ranger support.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing details unavailable.
Trash and recyclingThe campground features a centrally located dumpster with a locking bar to deter wildlife. 'There is a dumpster that was a good distance away from the sites and it did had a locking bar in case critters came by,' noted one reviewer.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to Lake Arbuckle and Livingston Creek, offering fishing and water activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of shade, road noise, noise from neighbors, and broken or rusted grills.
HostRangers visit the campground periodically; no dedicated hosts mentioned.
Campground Map
851 COUNTY ROAD 630 EAST, FROSTPROOF, Florida, 33843, United States
Driving directionsFrom US Highway 27: Turn left onto County Road 630A, then left onto County Road 630 East through Frostproof, past McDonald's, over the railroad tracks, and right onto Lake Reedy Blvd. Follow Lake Reedy Blvd for about a mile after the blinking yellow light, then turn left onto Lake Arbuckle Rd. Turn right onto Rucks Dairy Rd (paved). After about a mile, continue over the bridge on Livingston Creek. Turn right on Rucks Dairy Rd to find the Reedy Creek I Primitive Campground on the left. From SR 60: Turn right onto County Road 630 East and proceed west until reaching Walk In Water Road/Blue Jordan Road. Turn left onto Blue Jordan Road, then left onto Lake Reedy Blvd. Follow Lake Reedy Blvd for about a mile after the blinking yellow light, then turn left onto Lake Arbuckle Rd. Turn right onto Rucks Dairy Rd (paved). After about a mile, continue over the bridge on Livingston Creek. Turn right on Rucks Dairy Rd to find the campground on the left.
The campground is accessible via a paved road (Rucks Dairy Rd). No seasonal closures or challenging terrain mentioned.Nearby places
Frostproof (10 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes), Lakeland (44 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Supplies and essentials are available in Frostproof (approximately 10 miles away) and Lakeland (approximately 44 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Reedy Creek Campground Lake Wales Ridge State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Reedy Creek Campground are mixed, highlighting the natural beauty and quiet atmosphere while pointing out issues with shade, noisy campers, and nearby road activity. The majority of users appreciate the campground's rustic charm and opportunities for outdoor recreation, but some noted maintenance concerns and lack of amenities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- 'Love this place. Have so many memories of primitive camping far back in the woods.'
- 'Very quiet, and private campground. Perfect for unwinding.'
- 'The hiking is absolutely amazing, and so many...
Show more
Common Concerns
- 'Most of the sites are almost no shade.'
- 'Road noise from vehicles.'
- 'Grills available at sites were old, rusty, bent, or broken.'
- 'Nearby campers were noisy and lacked reservations.'
-...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own shade or canopy, as most sites lack natural tree cover.
- Be prepared for noise from nearby roads and airboats, especially at night.
- Advanced reservations are mandatory except for...
Show more
Seasonal Insights
Winter and early spring appear to be the most favored seasons for camping due to cooler temperatures and fewer insects. Summer reviews often mention oppressive humidity and noise from airboats and...
Show more
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 area...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 1: The only walk-up campsite. It lacks shade but is accessible.
- Site 8: Described as having some shade but receives direct sunlight by 9 a.m.
- General note: Tent-only sites (1-5) require...
Show more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but sites are described as clearly marked with accessible parking options nearby.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is dog-friendly, and several reviewers mentioned bringing their pets. 'And my dog loves it too! Bring your pup!' noted one user.
Last updated August 10, 2025