Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area — Attraction in Saint Cloud

Traveling the country extensively we rely on reviews to guide us where to camp, where to eat etc... This campground has some mixed reviews so we wanted to give our own. Access, we have a 40ft Class A and had no problem getting in and around the camp. Crowded, our visit was during turkey season and lots of hunters but no problems with anyone and some stopped to say hi occasionally. Noise, generators running throughout the day and night. We were far enough away that it didn't bother us. Locals, oddly there were many RVs and camps set up with no one coming or going for the 3 days we were there and looked like some had not been occupied in months almost as if this was their storage lot, unusual. Campsites, sites had no particular markings, posts, picnic tables or rings, pretty much each site was just an open area, if you fit in it it's a site. Cost, free is a very good price, not sure what the maximum stay is but looking at some of the campers there it may be months lol Overall we enjoyed our stay and would stay...

One of the most beautiful campsites I've ever been to in Florida. I don't want to reveal where because some things are just better kept secrets & up for your own discovery. The property is stunning, and encompasses pinelands that are being well maintained, as well as oak hammocks, prairie and wetlands, and cabbage palm forest. A special place to hike for the day and enjoy time out in nature. Really a wonderful and special location. Driving in down 441 was also treat, a reminder of Florida's country heritage - the bird watching here is top notch. Scissor tailed kites, Caracara eating a coyote on the side of the road, a giant Osprey nest with both parents in it, sandhill cranes, wild turkeys, and eastern bluebirds. I wish everyone could have the chance to experience and appreciate Florida's rural beauty and not just our white sand beaches. SLOW down, appreciate and enjoy this place we...

Three stars because it's great that we have this space in Florida when wildlife areas are seemingly harder and harder to come by these days. However, from the standpoint of going to hike and bird watch, I'd give it one, maybe two stars. The trails are poorly maintained at best. The heritage trail was non-existent in the prairie lakes section. The markings were there, but it was definitely not a trail. We were tromping on plants the entire time until we ultimately turned back. There is also little to no signage for the trails, you've really got to know exactly where to look. Ultimately we found the red cockaded woodpeckers we went the Three Lakes for while driving down Canoe Creek Road. It's a nice environment, no doubt about it, and probably is great for hunting, but for birding and hiking, there are better options...