Camp Lonesome Conservation Area
In November 2007, Osceola County purchased the Camp Lonesome Conservation Area with funds from the Environmental Lands Conservation Program, formally known as Save Osceola. The property is 2,443 acres in size and was previously used for cattle production. This beautiful piece of "old Florida" landscape is south of St. Cloud and east of Canoe Creek Road.
The property supports several imperiled or rare ecological communities and wildlife species. Camp Lonesome is an excellent mosaic of mixed hardwood wetland swamps, wet prairies, cypress ponds and pine flatwood communities. Wildlife on site consists of white tailed deer, wild turkey, gopher tortoises and variety of bird species, including crested caracara, barred owl and Eastern meadowlark.
Approximately 75% of the Camp Lonesome ecosystem is fire-dependent, meaning it requires prescribed fire to properly maintain the land. Fire opens the understory for new vegetation growth and returns carbon to the soil, which enriches the soil for further growth. Prescribed fire also reduces the fire load, therefore reducing the threat of wildfires.
Camp Lonesome is open to the public for passive recreational use and serves as a preserve for native wildlife and vegetation habitat. For safety and security purposes, Camp Lonesome is accessible by reservation only. Please call 407-742-0200 to reserve your visit, or make a reservation online.
Location
4257 North Canoe Creek Road
Kenansville, FL 34739
Amenities
- 4.5 Miles of Equestrian Riding and Hiking Trail
- Primitive Camping
- Equestrian Camping
- Wildlife viewing
Primitive and Equestrian Camping Rates
| Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Resident | $12 per person, per night |
| Non-Resident | $15 per person, per night |
Reservation Information
- Day Hiking and Horseback Riding are permitted during park hours. For safety and security purposes, the entrance gate to Camp Lonesome is kept locked. For reservations you can call (407) 742-0200 or email parks@osceola.org
- Overnight primitive camping and overnight equestrian camping can be reserved for up to 2 nights.
- Organized Groups cannot exceed 6 person.
