Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park

What if you could escape to a campground where the sky seems to stretch forever, offering unmatched stargazing, endless flatland trails, and an extraordinary connection with nature? At Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, located 30 miles north of Okeechobee, Florida, this remote and serene setting protects the state’s largest remaining stretch of dry prairie and proudly holds the title of Florida's first Dark Sky Park.

The campground consists of well-maintained sites equipped with 30 or 50-amp electric hookups, water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Options include family-friendly camping loops nestled under sparse oak trees, an equestrian loop with paddocks for horse owners, and an astronomy loop designed for stargazers—where fire and bright lights are prohibited to preserve the pristine night sky. Modern amenities, such as clean bathrooms, hot showers, and a laundry facility, add convenience, while primitive backcountry sites provide a truly rugged experience. Bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts will marvel at the park’s globally rare species, including the endangered grasshopper sparrow, burrowing owls, and crested caracaras.

Situated amidst 100 miles of multi-use trails, the park draws hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders to explore sweeping vistas and seasonal wildflower blooms. Stargazing enthusiasts will find the absence of light pollution an unparalleled opportunity to spot the Milky Way. A visit here is not just camping—it's immersion into one of Florida’s most unspoiled and unique ecosystems, perfect for those who seek solitude, natural beauty, and a celestial escape.