With holidays in Florida set to become the norm for the foreseeable future. What is a better time to go camping with the whole family, including your furry friend? It will be the perfect holiday for both of you. Your pets will enjoy the great outdoors just as much as you do, so it pays to bring them along to prepare. This article will share the best tips and guides for pet-friendly camping in Florida.
Are pets allowed in Florida State Campground?
Pets are allowed in designated areas in most Florida state parks. Exceptions include Ellie Schiller Springs Wildlife State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. To know the latest updates, keep in touch with the campground website and watch the policies. Pets must be kept on a leash of at least 6 feet and behave appropriately. Pet owners must clean up after their pets and dispose of feces properly. Pets are prohibited on beaches, playgrounds, swimming areas, cabins, parks, or concessions. Individual parks may have specific areas where pets are not allowed.
The park site is regularly reviewed for pet suitability as part of the unit management planning process. Areas of the park that are designated pet-free are designated based on the park’s natural and cultural assets, key recreational activities, RV and pet health and safety, geographic location and landscaping, camping areas, and ability to provide a quality recreational environment to provide, fixed Experience for all guests.
RECOMMENDED:
- Pet-friendly camping in the United States.
- Dog-friendly camping in Florida.
- Dog-friendly campsites in the U.S.
Why Florida is Perfect for Camping with Pets?
For what reason you would love camping in Florida? Camping in Florida means being right on the beach or away from noisy tourists. You can enjoy historical places and amusement park adventures. Unique nature, crystal clear springs, incredible cuisine, and unique landscapes.
For a great view of beach camping, head to Cayo Costa State Park, where primitive campgrounds and overnight cabins are available. The Sunshine State is a large tropical region with sunny skies and warm weather most of the year. The parks and beaches offer plenty of space for a few scenic drives or a jog in the lush gardens.
Top Pet-Friendly Campsites in Florida
Dogs and camping go together like peanut butter and jellies, like classic graham, chocolate, and marshmallow crackers. Florida is mainly known as a very dog-friendly state.
1. Grayton Beach State Park Campground
If water sports are your thing, consider camping at Grayton Beach State Park Campground. Located in Walton County, the state park is famous for its beautiful beach and pristine emerald waters. This campsite is open all year round and has 59 pitches, each with electricity and water connection, some connected to the sewage system.
And the maximum allowable RV length is 40 feet until it’s 4. An 8 km walking and cycling route that takes you through the park’s beautiful pine forests. Probably best to sunbathe, swim and paddle on the 100-hectare coastal dune lake.
2. Hillsborough River State Park
Hillsborough River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest state parks, covering 3,383 acres. It’s famous for its beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and proximity to the river (unique Class II rapids) and Tampa. There are 112 campsites on this campsite.
Most sites have power for RVs and tents, each equipped with water, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Laundry facilities and hot water showers are also available. Prefer to camp in a hammock? You can, too, although only sites 41, 61, 68, 70, 110, and 111 allow it. The trails are approximately 7.3 miles long, so you can take your furry family member for a jog or hike in a beautiful hardwood hammock.
3. Anastasia State Park Campground
You can never go wrong with a campground on a beautiful, wide beach, and you’ll find just that at Anastasia State Park Campground. This St. Augustine campground is famous for its pristine beaches, tidal marshes, and ancient dunes. The park also offers you the facility of kayaking, canoeing, and fishing as well.
There are 139 campgrounds in this state park. The feel is excellent there as you are just next to the sea. Each pitch has electricity, water, a fire pit, a picnic table, and an underground grill. The campsite may include four bathrooms with showers, hot water, washers, and dryers to make your day.
4. Highlands Hammock State Park Campground
Featuring beautiful water hammocks, a variety of wildlife, including black bears, and rare and endangered species, such as gopher tortoises and Florida Panthers, Highlands Hammock State Park offers customers a unique camping experience.
An elevated walkway winds through a cypress swamp filled with ancient oaks, tall cabbage palms, bromeliads, epiphytes, and ferns, offering unique vistas. Whether motor home or camper, you have everything you need for a successful trip. Water and electricity hookups, showers, launderette, landfill, you name it! No surprise to know that highlands hammock state park is one of the most preferred Vacation destinations for camping lovers.
5. Fort De Soto Park Campground
Are you a history buff? Then you will love Fort De Soto Park. It is known for its rich history! Initially owned by the Tobago Indians and used as a blockade during the Civil War and WWII and as a coastal defense battery and military training ground, this park has one of the most intriguing histories in Florida. Fort De Soto Park Campground includes 236 campsites with 30-50 amp water and electricity hookups and can accommodate up to 16 feet long RVs. Although it’s not too big, campers don’t have to sacrifice comfort to camp here.
They also have modern showers, washing facilities, and disposal stations to make camping more comfortable. Your four-legged friend can’t miss the fun! There is a dog park specifically designed for dogs called The Paw Playground, where your dogs can be on the beach and, more importantly, romp around as the area is off-leash!
6. Fort Pickens Campground
Gorgeous ocean views, beautiful white sand beaches, fertile swamps, and historic landscapes put Fort Pickens Campground on my list. This campsite is ideal for nature lovers. Means of traveling are biking and hiking. Your pet can also exercise while running along with you. The landscape alone is breathtaking! Watching dolphins and sea turtles swim past you as the sun sets over the ocean and birds fly overhead sounds like heaven and a perfect day. Knowing that this campground has a high selling value and priceless natural beauty is very factual.
7. Bradenton Farms KOA Campground
KOA lover says that these campgrounds are the most family-friendly campgrounds. Bradenton Farms KOA campground is no different! The visitors can enjoy the children’s pool, horseshoe games, and tracks. Talking adults, they can have just as much fun as their children. Bradenton farm also has a small zoo where you can see over 30 species of animals ranging from goats, ponies, sheep, and pigs to bison, kangaroos, and emus. They also have a large fenced-in dog park (Camp K9) where your dog can be unrestricted, exercise, play with other dogs or relax.
Pet-Friendly Attractions on a Campsite
No doubt camping is a perfect picnic for most of us, but what about pets? Do they love camping like us? Yes, if they would get proper facilities and amenities, why not. The amenity may include a peaceful environment. Pets don’t like each other and chase after each other. If there is none, then it would be perfect for your partner. Other may include some playing toys or games like balls or other.
Camping Gear for Pets
Before you embark on an adventure, look at the list below just to ensure you have every necessary accessory ever needed on the trip along with your pet. All essential camping gear for pet-friendly camping in Florida has been listed here:
- Poop Bags
- Waterproof Dog Bowl
- Dog First Aid Kit
- Travel Towels
- Dog Leashes
- Food Water
- Blankets
- Kennel
- Collar/ Leash
- Treats
Collar or LED light to keep your dog visible in low light conditions. In addition to dog essentials, this quick camping checklist provides full guidance on what to pack for your camping trip, from tents and sleeping gear to camping furniture and toys.
Tips for Pet-Friendly Camping in Florida
So, the most essential thing that you have to make sure of is to find a campsite that accepts pets. Not all campsites allow guests to bring pets, so it’s best to contact management in advance. Campsite Riverside camp, the cabins in Big Sur are known to be a popular spot for camping with dogs.
Furthermore, double-check the campsite rules to ensure your campsite has no issues with the pets. Particular pet policies may apply regarding pet fees, dogs on leash, or only certain breeds and sizes of dogs allowed on the property.
Clean up after your Pet:
When spending time in nature, a good rule of thumb is to leave no trace, i.e., to clean up behind you and your four-legged friend. Always carry enough bags to collect dog waste and dispose of any wrappers of food or treats.
Watch out for Dustbins:
Beware of Bins: While you may not have designated bins at your campsite, there are undoubtedly other bins at the campsite that you can use. When you arrive, find the nearest one to you so you know exactly where to throw your pet’s poop.
Pros and Cons of Pet-friendly Camping in Florida
These are some pros and cons of pe-friendly camping in Florida:
Don’t leave your Dog outside:
When you go to bed, take your dog with you in your tent or RV at night.
Relax and unwind:
After you arrive at the campsite, walk your dog for a few hours. It gives your partner some time to get familiar with the place.
Confine the dog:
Remember that camping with dogs is at least a little stressful for your pets. Even the happiest of four-legged travelers can be a little nervous. All the unfamiliar sights and smells can be downright frightening for some dogs. Hold onto your dog. Bring a collapsible pet carrier, a flexible dog carrier, or a long leash. It’s essential to keep him under control in such places with an open place, so remember to tie it up. This way, you can relax by the fire with your dog nearby and not have to jump in place to catch him when he tries to chase another dog or forest animal.
So now as you know everything about camping with pets, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip and get ready for an adventurous weekend.
Pet-friendly Camping in Florida FAQs
Pets are allowed in designated areas in most Florida state parks. Exceptions include Ellie Schiller Springs Wildlife State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Pets must be kept on a leash of at least 6 feet and behave appropriately. Pet owners must clean up after their pets and dispose of feces properly. Pets are prohibited on beaches, playgrounds, swimming areas, cabins, parks, or concessions. Individual parks may have specific areas where pets are not allowed.
The lists of parks in Florida that allow dogs and other pets:
1. Grayton Beach State Park Campground
2. Hillsborough River State Park
3. Anastasia State Park Campground
4. Highlands Hammock State Park Campground
5. Fort De Soto Park Campground
6. Fort Pickens Campground
7. Bradenton Farms KOA Campground
Yes, Florida is a very pet-friendly State with plenty of pet-friendly campgrounds and beaches. It is up to the owner of the pet what type of camping he wants and what type of amenities and limitations he can bear.
