In the heart of Central Florida, away from the glitz and glamour of the theme parks, lies a slice of Old Florida that speaks to the soul of a true RVer. This is a land of towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss, of serene lakes teeming with life, and of a quiet that’s only broken by the call of a sandhill crane. It’s here, at Coleman Landing within the Shady Oaks Recreation Area, that you’ll find a hidden gem. This Polk County park, situated on the shores of the legendary Lake Kissimmee, is more than just a campground with a public RV dump station. It’s a strategic and scenic stop that offers a moment of peace and a chance to reset, perfectly positioned for anyone traveling between the magic of Orlando and the sandy beaches of Florida’s Atlantic coast.
The area surrounding Coleman Landing is steeped in a charm that feels a world away from the interstate. You’re in Lake Wales, a town that enchants visitors with its authentic, old-time Florida ambiance. The air itself seems to carry the melodic music from the carillon at the historic Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark that has been captivating visitors since 1929. This is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes is renowned among anglers chasing that trophy largemouth bass. For nature photographers and bird watchers, the pine flatwoods and marshy shores provide endless opportunities to spot herons, egrets, and the majestic cranes that call this region home. This isn’t just a place to empty your tanks; it’s a place to fill your soul. Making a stop here allows you to connect with the natural beauty that makes Florida so special, turning a practical necessity into a memorable part of your journey.
Dumping your tanks at a county park like Coleman Landing is an experience defined by its natural setting and functional simplicity. You trade the noise of the highway for the sounds of nature. The dump station is typically located near the park entrance for easy access, often with a simple, pull-through design that accommodates rigs of all sizes. Instead of dealing with a cashier at a busy gas station, you might interact with a friendly campground host or simply follow the honor system for payment. The pace is slower here. There’s no rush. The entire atmosphere encourages you to take a deep breath and enjoy your surroundings. The nights are quiet, punctuated by the hoot of an owl rather than the rumble of truck traffic, offering a profound sense of peace and security.
As a recreational area designed for campers, Coleman Landing offers a host of amenities that are incredibly welcome to any traveler. The presence of clean restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers is a true luxury. After the messy work of dealing with your holding tanks, or after a hot day of exploring, a proper shower can feel like a five star spa treatment. The park also provides large trash bins, usually located near the bathhouse, making it easy to get rid of the trash you’ve accumulated on your travels. For those looking to stay overnight, the campsites offer partial hookups with both water and 20, 30, and 50 amp electric service, allowing for a full replenishment of your rig’s systems. The park is also pet friendly, with wide grassy areas and trails that are perfect for walking your leashed furry friends. You will, however, need to be self sufficient when it comes to propane or any mechanical repairs. Plan to stock up on those supplies in the town of Lake Wales before you head into the park.
When it comes to cost, county parks in Florida are known for their exceptional value. While the current dump only fee for Coleman Landing wasn't listed, these services typically run in the very reasonable five to ten dollar range. It’s always a good idea to call the Polk County Parks department to confirm the current price and any specific procedures. If you choose to spend the night, you’ll find that the rates for a campsite with partial hookups are incredibly competitive, especially when compared to the private RV resorts that line the main highways. The value here is immense, offering a million dollar view for a very modest price.
To make the most of your visit, a few insider tips can go a long way. If you’re planning a trip during the winter months, be sure to call ahead. This is prime “snowbird” season, and campgrounds like this can fill up quickly. Central Florida is famous for its natural beauty, but that also includes insects. A good bug repellent is your best friend, especially around dusk when the mosquitoes tend to come out near the lake. When driving within the park, be sure to follow the posted speed limits. Many of the roads are packed sand, and driving slowly keeps the dust down for everyone’s enjoyment. And here’s a pro tip: once the chore of dumping the tanks is done, reward yourself. Launch a kayak or canoe onto the lake. A sunrise or sunset paddle on Lake Kissimmee is an unforgettable experience, often rewarding you with incredible wildlife sightings and a sense of profound tranquility.
In the end, Coleman Landing is far more than just a convenient dump station. It’s a destination that pairs an essential RV task with the classic, unspoiled scenery of Old Florida. It’s a chance to breathe, relax, and reconnect with nature. By confirming the modest fee and coming prepared with some bug spray, you’ll leave with more than just empty tanks. You’ll depart with a full camera roll, a renewed sense of peace, and the lingering memory of the distant chimes from Bok Tower carried on the warm Florida breeze.
1450 Shady Oak Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33898
(863) 327-2099
Cost: Price not available
Category: Park
No Water
polk-county.net