Green Swamp: Hampton Tract
Campers need to carry in all necessary provisions to this wilderness northwest of Lakeland. With only non-potable water, picnic tables, grills and fire rings at the primitive campsites, the Hampton Tract of the Green Swamp offers campers a peaceful alternative and plenty of solitude. The reward for those making the effort are miles of mulituse trails allowing hikers, cyclists and equestrians to explore this 11,000-acre wilderness with many more miles available in the adjoining conservation lands. Deep within the tract, long flooded and retaken by nature, lies an abandoned quarry where freshwater anglers can share their day with the wildlife that visits this artificial reservoir. Camping is free and simply requires registration with the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
Green Swamp: Hampton Tract
18490 Rock Ridge Rd.
Lakeland, FL 33809
(352) 796-7211, ext .4470
swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation
Saddle Creek Park & Campground
Narrow ribbons of land jut into the lake comprising the majority of Saddle Creek Park & Campground. Five boat ramps are scattered along the park giving anglers not content with shoreline fishing access throughout the lake. A lakeside campground affords campers the option of primitive or electric and water hookups for tent or RV camping underneath the oaks that line the shore. Hiking trails, playgrounds and a shooting range provide diversions from the aquatic recreation of the park.
Saddle Creek Park & Campground
3716 Morgan Combee Rd.
Lakeland, FL 33801
(863) 534-4340
saddlecreekpark.com
Sanlan RV Park
Sanlan Recreation Area is a private facility that boasts over 700 acres, including a campground, golf course and wildlife sanctuary. Campers wanting to enjoy outdoor recreation without sacrificing comfort or convenience will find that Sanlan RV Park offers tent camping in addition to its pull-through, full hookup RV sites. Bathhouses, multiple pools, Wi-Fi and laundry facilities ensure guests a pleasurable and restful experience after a long hike to the bird rookery in Sanlan Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary or hours of play on the 18 holes on Bramble Ridge Golf Course.
Sanlan RV Park
3929 U.S. 98 S.
Lakeland, FL 33812
(863) 665-1726
sanlan.com
Article Written By David Chandler
David Chandler has been a freelance writer since 2006 whose work has appeared in various print and online publications. A former reconnaissance Marine, he is an active hiker, diver, kayaker, sailor and angler. He has traveled extensively and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida where he was educated in international studies and microbiology.
