We kicked off our very first RV adventure at Wekiwa Springs State Park, and honestly, it couldn’t have gone better. With just a day’s notice, we managed to book Site 001 in Loop SHCG for a weekend getaway from Friday, August 9 to Sunday, August 11, 2024.

It was our family of four—two parents, one energetic 4-year-old, and a sleepy 2-month-old. Despite the Florida summer heat and the usual parenting chaos, this trip gave us everything we were hoping for: rest, play, nature, and memories we’ll hold onto forever.

Our Campsite Setup

We lucked out with Site 001—it was roomy, quiet, and shaded by big oak trees. The full hookups made camper life a breeze. After setting up, we dropped the dinette table, popped in our pack and play, and boom—instant nap zone for the baby.

Meanwhile, our toddler happily explored the dirt, spotted lizards, and declared himself “king of the bugs.” That alone made the packing stress worth it.

✨ Want to know what made our setup smooth and stress-free? Check out our RV camping setup tips for beginners!

Top Things to Do at Wekiwa Springs State Park

1. Swim in the Springs

Wekiwa’s main spring is a dream. The clear, cool water stays around 72°F year-round. There’s a roped-off area perfect for kids to splash safely, and shady grassy areas for relaxing.

Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends. The spring area fills up fast!

2. Picnic and Recharge

We packed a cooler and claimed a picnic table near the spring. With snacks, sandwiches, and fresh fruit, we didn’t need to leave the area all afternoon.

3. Hike Kid-Friendly Trails

With over 13 miles of trails, there’s something for every level. We kept it short and sweet with an easy loop close to the spring. Our toddler loved pointing out butterflies and squirrels.

Keep in mind: Most trails are not stroller-friendly. Use a wearable baby carrier for easier walks.

4. Paddle the Wekiva River

Next time, we’ll bring our gear to paddle! Kayak and canoe rentals are available inside the park through Nature Adventures. The river is calm, scenic, and full of wildlife.

5. Spot Wildlife

We spotted deer from our campsite and turtles near the spring. Early morning is best for animal sightings, so grab your coffee and step outside.

RVing with Small Kids: What Worked for Us

• Arrive early so you’re not setting up in the heat (or near bedtime).
• Lower the dinette for a cozy infant sleep area.
• Pack plenty of snacks—they solve almost everything.
• Bring outdoor toys (think bubbles, chalk, and digging tools).
• Use blackout shades for naps inside the RV.

Baby-Friendly Navigation Tips

Around the spring and picnic area, a stroller works great. Paths are mostly paved or grassy. However, most trails are narrow and sandy—definitely bring a soft baby carrier if you plan to hike. Other must-haves for a baby:

• Clip-on stroller fan
• Muslin blankets for shade
• Portable white noise machine
• Foldable changing mat
• Baby-safe bug spray

Family Packing Checklist

What to Bring:

• Swimsuits and water shoes

• Towels and picnic blanket

• Bug spray and sunscreen

• Cooler with drinks and snacks

• Shade umbrella or pop-up tent

• Camp chairs and kid toys

• Stroller and carrier

• Pack and play or travel crib

Wekiwa Springs State Park Info

📍 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
📞 (407) 553-4383
🌐 Wekiwa Springs Official Site

Hours: 8 a.m. – sundown daily

Entrance Fee: $6 per vehicle

Camping Fee: $24/night + $7 utility fee

Number of Sites: 60 (with water/electric hookups)

On-site rentals: Kayaks and canoes

Want to Try RV Life?

Our camper is ready and waiting for your next adventure! It’s family-friendly, easy to use, and fully stocked for a fun weekend away.

🚐 Book our camper here: Outdoorsy.com
🌍 Follow us at: @littleadventuresbigfun

Final Thoughts

Wekiwa Springs State Park gave us the perfect taste of what RV camping with kids can be—adventurous, relaxing, and just the right amount of wild. If you’re considering a first trip, this spot is a great place to start.

Whether you’re floating in the spring, hiking through pine forests, or roasting marshmallows back at camp, there’s a little magic for every member of the family.