Dog-Friendly Camping near Astor, FL

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    Salt Springs Recreation Area permits pets in its cabins, tent sites, and RV areas, making it one of the most versatile pet-friendly options in the Ocala National Forest region. Campers with dogs can access full hookups including electric, sewer, and water connections at Salt Springs, while Blue Spring State Park Campground offers electric hookups and water access for pet owners. Most campgrounds in the area maintain standard leash policies, requiring dogs to be secured at all times outside vehicles or designated areas. Alexander Springs Recreation Area, Juniper Springs, and Clearwater Lake campgrounds all welcome pets but provide more primitive camping experiences without electric hookups. Picnic tables and fire rings are standard at most pet-friendly sites. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Astor, Florida.

    The hiking trails surrounding Alexander Springs provide excellent opportunities for dog exercise with access to clear spring waters where wildlife viewing is common. Pet owners should be cautious of local wildlife including alligators and bears, particularly when walking dogs near water areas. The campground at Alexander Springs offers spacious, shaded sites with good buffers between neighbors, providing some privacy for campers with pets. Sites within the Ocala National Forest campgrounds are considered primitive but include access to bathroom facilities and drinking water stations scattered throughout. During summer months, mosquitoes and ticks become prevalent, so appropriate pest protection for pets is essential. Each campground in the forest is operated by different concessionaires, requiring separate entrance fees if visiting multiple springs with pets.

    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Astor (280)

      1. Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area

      4.5(46)11mi from Astor78 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This pet friendly campground has many magical options. The Florida Trail runs right through this spot and has a natural spring connection as well."

      "The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth."

      from $38 - $70 / night

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      2. Alexander Springs Recreation Area

      4.4(35)7mi from Astor67 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida. The facilities were clean and provided showers."

      "We found this campground while looking for a stealth spot near some springs and it was getting late and we had our car and our dog so just came here."

      from $38 - $70 / night

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      3. Salt Springs Recreation Area

      4.4(61)18mi from Astor160 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "There are no laundry facilities but if you exit park and drive left there is a laundromat, local food, dollar store, bait tackle."

      "We’re a married couple in our forties traveling with two dogs and a cat in our 37 foot motorhome. We stayed at Salt Springs campground for about a week in February."

      from $38 - $70 / night

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      4. Clearwater Lake Campground

      4.8(23)13mi from Astor42 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Clearwater Lake Recreation is one of the few National Forest Service managed campgrounds located at the southern end of Ocala National Forest. Campsites are well-shaded, private and spaced apart."

      "Clearwater Lake Recreation Area was recommended to us as a backup option to nearby and popular Alexander Springs for our small group of scouts."

      from $38 / night

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      5. Blue Spring State Park Campground

      4.4(47)19mi from Astor53 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "This campground was awesome for a weekend away with the family and dogs. It was still very hot and buggy in Florida so be warned If this is an issue for you."

      "As for the pet-friendly campground specifically, each of the 51 sites has its own picnic table, water and electric as well as fire ring, while the ground itself is laden with powdery grey sand (so leave"

      from $24 - $95 / night

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      6. Hopkins Prairie Campground — National Forests In Florida

      4.5(15)12mi from Astor22 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This is a beautiful campground with proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail. Ideal for tent camping, as the forest service roads were a little rough for our RV."

      "Good walking trails & dog friendly!"

      from $16 / night

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      7. Ocala National Forest Lake Dorr Campground

      4.5(8)12mi from Astor34 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Lake Dorr is a super nice camp site located less than an hour away from some of Florida’s natural springs."

      "Plus my dog has major thunder anxiety. Lol .. It ended up being a simple light rain and a cold front . I wish I hand stayed . I’m heading back soon !! I didn’t get to explore the lake ."

      from $20 / night

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      8. Pine Island RV & Marina

      5.0(4)10mi from Astor2 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "of a magnificent campsite includes the opportunity of waking up to an endless blue horizon eclipsed by the sinking sun at dusk, then look no further than this very quaint, out-of-the-way boutique lakeside"

      "This give you access to Lake George and some of the most amazing sunsets ever seen."

      from $55 - $85 / night

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      9. Tomoka State Park Campground

      4.6(56)30mi from Astor88 sitesRVs, Cabins

      "There are a couple of small trails right in the campground to see the Halifax River, but to have better views and water access you can walk or drive down near the trading post/picnic area."

      "From the initial encounter with the ranger at the entrance to the staff running the camp store everyone was super-chill. Campground was well maintained and our neighbors were all well behaved."

      from $24 / night

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      10. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground

      4.4(65)32mi from Astor51 sitesRVs, Cabins, Glamping

      "Caverns are beautiful under the water but it is constantly crowded around. Pets need to be put on a leash. Horses are permitted. Many opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and kayaking."

      "Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."

      from $24 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Astor, FL

    1380 Reviews of 280 Astor Campgrounds


    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 1, 2023

      Encore Clerbrook

      Hole In One For this RV Parking Course

      It’s not common to find a spot that you can plant your RV on and go out to hit the links for the day all in the same location, but here at Clerbrook Golf & RV Resort you can hit par on both fronts. Located right off Route 27 just due west of Lake Apopka in central Florida, Clerbrook offers nearly 300 acres of prime landscape that posits 1200+ RV slots for your parking and vacationing pleasure. Here you’ll be able to perfectly blend a golfing oasis that blends its RV offering complete with lush vegetation, interconnecting ponds and narrow canals all surrounded by ancient Oaks draped with Spanish Moss. 

      As far as amenities goes, Clerbrook does not disappoint. Here’s just a small list of all the great amenities you’ll find: Welcome Center, Heated Swimming Pools, BBQ and Picnic tables, Planned Activities, Clubhouses, Billiard Room, Card Rooms, Post Office, Fishing Area, 18 Hole Golf Course with Pro Shop (note: first 9 holes are complimentary with a visit to the Pro Shop), Exercise & Fitness Center, Horseshoe Pits, Recreation Hall, Laundry, Shuffleboard Courts, Library, Nature Walks, Pets Welcome, Picnic Pavilion, Driving Range, Dog Park, Wood Shop, Basketball Court, Playground, Restrooms & Showers, Softball Field, Hot Tub, RV Storage, complimentary WiFi, Arts and Craft Classes as well as Live Entertainment on the weekends. Of course, for RV’ers you can expect both back-in and pull-through slots with all of the traditional water, sewage and electric (30 / 50 amp) hook-ups. 

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you’ve got wine on your mind (and why wouldn’t you when on holiday?!), just meander a few miles south of Clerbrook and you’ll discover a fairly respectable winery called Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards offering tours and tastings featuring Muscadine grapes (apparently a prominent grape varietal down in these parts known for their antioxidant qualities; (2) When you get tired of fixing every meal from your mini-fridge or cooler, then you’ll have to head south to Clermont where you’ll find PeruRican Ceviche, which for these parts is pretty outstanding and if you are still longing for pizza, check out Mamma Rita’s Pizzeria for some good pies and pasta; and (3) If nature is calling and you want to get out for a good hike, then head due south to Hiawatha Preserve that has a few dog parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking paths, and of course, access to Lake Hiawatha, in case you want to drop your kayak or canoe in the water. 

      Happy Camping!

    • Ashley W.
      Jun. 12, 2022

      Compass RV Park

      Compass RV Park Spring Break 2021

      We stayed here during Spring Break as it was the only thing available in Saint Augustine when we booked. However, we really enjoyed the park. It was close to the beaches and all major attractions. The pool was nice and there was a basket ball court, corn hole and table tennis as well as a small playground. Since we booked late we were in what was considered a buddy site which was a little different since we had a neighbor facing our site who we didn’t know but still we had a great time and my kids made several new friends. The bathrooms were clean and there was a laundry area with a separate laundry for washing pet bedding. The park was almost separated into 2 sections with the sites in the back having mixed paved pads while the ones in the front were gravel. There were several trails through the campground and there was an off leash dog park as well. All in all we really enjoyed our visit and would definitely return in the future.

    • V
      Nov. 5, 2021

      Ocala RV Camp Resort

      Nice RV Park

      Easy access to I 75 Has nice pond with wildlife , cabins to rent and all services . Friendly staff and dog park.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 1, 2024

      Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort

      Oceanfront, White Sand Beaches & Palm Laced RV Oasis

      Ever fantasized about parking your RV so near the ocean that you could feel the salt spray coming off those Atlantic ‘white caps’? Well, look no further than Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort, which depending upon the specific RV slot you are fortunate enough to book here, you too could be kicking back and living life in the 'slow lane’ right in front of idyllic white sand beaches against a backdrop of an endless aquatic blue horizon. Located just 8 miles / 20 minutes south of St. Augustine (a.k.a. Ancient City), Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort resides on the famous A1A, but down in this neck of the woods, you will find that you have escaped the whir of traffic, busyness of everyday life and won’t have to put up with the touristy side of this northernmost Floridian outpost.

      As for this location itself, Bryn Mawr boasts the largest family pool in the county (which I cannot independently verify here), although there are actually 2 swimming pools, along with a spa and private walkways with beach access to some of the finest ocean views along the eastern seaboard. Boasting some 236 RV slots, Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort is a massive RV oceanfront wonderland, hidden in the shades of the palms, wherein you’ll enter the compound through a very well appointed security gate after first being greeted by the good folks at the main office building. Once inside, you’ll swerve a bit around the bend to the right before heading straight, wherein on both sides of this RV ‘main street’ you’ll intersect four different perpendicular lanes (Sea Bird, followed by Sea Coast, then Sea Dog and finally Sea Eagle) before reaching a T intersection (at Sea Eagle) where you’ll have to either turn left or right in order to access the 9 (yes, count ‘em, 9) vertical RV slotted lanes (and unfortunately, yes, all of them also begin with the word ‘Sea’, making it very difficult to remember which ‘Sea’ lane you are in) that from north to south are called: Sea Fan, Sea Gull, Sea Horse, Sea Jetty, Sea Anchor, Sea King, Sea Ladder, Sea Millie and Sea Nettle. 

      Nomenclature aside, it all doesn’t really matter if you are looking for simply the best, which are the oceanfront RV slots (that run parallel to the beach along Sea Otter lane), whose numbered sites are #219– 238. Trust me, whatever the premium is to pay and park in one of these 20 RV slots is ABSOLUTELY worth it, given the proximity to the beach, as well as the additional distance from traffic that you’ll have back here in the furthest reaches of Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort.  Oh, and then there's the priceless oceanfront views you'll have - but to be clear, that really only works out if your particular RV has a rear-facing panoramic view, otherwise, you'll have to get outside your vehicle and post a few picnic chairs to enjoy the view.

      Amenities: dog park / pet walking area, basketball court, lighted tennis / pickle-ball courts, shuffleboard, complimentary WiFi and cable, main office with marketplace store, spartan showers & restroom facilities (there are multiple units spread throughout the RV campus), laundr-O-mat, activity center, horseshoe pitch, propane refill station and children’s playground. Of course, all RV sites come with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric along with water and sewage) and concrete pads. There’s also scattered picnic tables, BBQ grills and fire rings.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While I’ve already HIGHLY recommended the oceanfront slots of #219– 238, I would also recommend the following locations (if being near the ocean is important to you): 82, 96, 110, 123, 135, 249, 143, 154, 167, 168, 250, 181, 195, 209 and 218; (2) This place is one of the most pet-friendly RV outposts I’ve come across, so don’t be shy about bringing all your pets – I couldn’t find a single RV’er who didn’t have at least 1 dog, if not an entire entourage of cats, iguanas, fish and even an alpaca en towe!; (3) While next to the ocean is great, you will feel a substantial lack of privacy with the spaces being quite close to one another, so if that bothers you (and let’s be honest, it should), then when booking, ask for what available spots there are to determine which of those offer up the most amount of either space or privacy; (4) When you get tired of trying to figure out what that next meal is going to be when staring down at your mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler, then check out some local haunts, like Salt Water Cowboy (where anything from the Land, Sea and Swamp section like fried Alligator is pretty amazing), World Famous Oasis Restaurant or Connolly’s Shore Grill for fresh caught seafood; (5) If you are looking for a decent place to do some great hiking, then look no further than due southwest of Bryn Mawr where you can check out Matanzas State Park, that has miles and miles of unspoiled hiking trails with virtually the entire place to yourself (save the deer and gators that you might come across); and (6) Carrying watercraft and looking for a nice spot to hit the water? Then I HIGHLY recommend Princess Place Preserve AND Faver-Dyke SP that offers access to the Matanzas and Tolomato Rivers as well as Pellicer Creek.

      Happy Camping!

    • Jacquelin P.
      Aug. 6, 2018

      Blue Spring State Park Campground

      Lovely pet friendly camping and spring

      This campground was awesome for a weekend away with the family and dogs. It was still very hot and buggy in Florida so be warned If this is an issue for you. Large campsites with a picnic table, electric, and water. Pet friendly and clean bathrooms with a small walking path for the pups. Been to better but a great weekend away!

    • Clayton D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Feb. 8, 2022

      Grand Lake

      Another great experience!

      We wereet at the entrance by a gentleman in a golf cart. He brought us directly to our site, and helped us get squared away. He recommended the local restaurant for dinner. Not a lot of options, but all the options were good!

      Great dog park, 2 separate zones!!!

      This is a golf/ lake community that is like the old TV shows. People walking dogs, riding golf carts, and meeting at the club house. We will return when we have more time to stay!

    • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Mar. 25, 2021

      Compass RV Park

      Exceeded Expectations

      Compass RV Resort was easy to get to. We followed the campground instructions versus our GPS. Check in was a breeze as they came out to our rig and gave us a good rundown on the CG then escorted us to site 126 in the newer Oasis area. This site had FHUs that were smartly placed midway down along the stone paver pad. Back-in was a breeze. We were glad we paid the fee to reserve a specific site as this site was probably one of the very best and most spacious in the CG. Our site had more front area lawn plus bushes that separated us from the next site. We also had to pay$3 per night for our 2 pups. The pull through sites were quite close to each other where the back in sites provided more room, this was especially true near the front of the CG. This was a large CG that was fairly full throughout our 6 nights stay but surprisingly quiet. You could hear some road noise but it was not too bad. We were in the far back of the CG but if you were more towards the office/entry you would have a lot more road noise. Their cable worked well plus there were multiple OTA channels. Some people had their satellite dishes out too. Most sites in the Oasis area would support satellite, as well as the pull through sites near the middle of the park. The older sites near the entrance had many more trees. We were surprised that we only got 2 bars on Verizon. The CG WiFi worked OK and we had a repeater next to our site. You could upgrade to faster CG internet for a fee, but we did not use this service. The CG has ice, firewood, and propane for sale. There was a small fenced dog park next to the shower, laundry and exercise facility in the Oasis section. Near the entrance there was a larger fenced dog park(about an acre) with a smaller fenced area within the dog park. St. Augustine’s historic, shopping, and restaurant area is stupid busy Friday- Sunday. Parking is limited in general and tougher for a dually. Best time to visit is during the week.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Feb. 21, 2021

      Wildwood KOA

      Awesome Campground for Overnight Stay

      Stayed here one night while returning from the FL Keys.  Awesome place to overnight. Spacious pull through sites.  They have a small fenced dog park which was great to let the dogs stretch their legs after traveling all day.  The campground has plenty of space to walk the dogs.

      Staff was great because we called during the days while traveling north and had a site waiting when we arrived after hours. 

      The only downside is that it is right behind a Pilot Travel center so there is noise from parked tractor trailers but I still slept fine.

    • Rich C.
      Apr. 15, 2023

      4 Lakes Campground

      Great Campground

      Professionally operated. Staff is fantastic! Amenities are great. Big dog park. New laundry room.


    Guide to Astor

    Camping near Astor, Florida sits between Ocala National Forest and Lake George, making it a central location for outdoor recreation. The region features freshwater springs maintaining a steady 72-degree temperature year-round regardless of season. Campsites throughout the area range from primitive forest settings to lakefront properties with varying levels of shade coverage.

    What to Do

    Kayaking the spring runs: At Juniper Springs Rec Area, the 7-mile downstream kayak run provides a natural obstacle course through crystal waters. "This is a must do if you are a kayaker. Some of the prettiest water in central FL makes for a great one way downstream 7 mile float. Boats less than 10' greatly improves your ability to navigate tight turns," notes Rebecca E.

    Fishing Lake George: Pine Island RV & Marina provides direct access to Lake George for fishing enthusiasts. "Great place if you're looking for a peaceful stay in the middle of nowhere. The lake views are beautiful," shares Elisa J. The marina offers ethanol-free fuel and boat slips.

    Hiking forest trails: Ocala National Forest offers extensive hiking opportunities, particularly at Hopkins Prairie. "The trails around the park were my favorite part, there are crystal springs & the spring fed river meandering all through the park," says Nicole D. about trails in the area. Most trails are well-marked with moderate difficulty levels.

    What Campers Like

    Private campsites: Clearwater Lake Campground provides secluded camping areas with natural buffers. "Campground is quiet and sites are HUGE. We were able to find a very nice hammock friendly site near the water," reports AJ G. Nearly all sites have trees suitable for hammock camping.

    Swimming in springs: Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers one of the largest swimming areas among Florida springs. "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too," writes Gabby C. The swimming area features graduated depths suitable for various swimming abilities.

    Wildlife viewing: The dog-friendly campgrounds near Astor feature abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "New to Florida. Have not experienced 'real Florida' nature. 1st trip took us to Alexander springs. We were surprised with an albino squirrel sighting as an added bonus," shares Joshua W. Early mornings provide the best wildlife spotting conditions.

    What You Should Know

    Campground amenities vary significantly: From primitive sites to full hookups, research before booking. "While there's not a ton of eateries that are all that tempting in these parts," Stuart K. mentions about Salt Springs Recreation Area, noting limited dining options nearby.

    Spring swimming restrictions: During manatee season (November-February), swimming restrictions apply at several springs. "During the winter you may not be able to swim because of the manatees," warns Zach G. about Blue Spring State Park.

    Seasonal considerations: Summer brings mosquitoes and crowds. "AVOID SPRING & SUMMER WEEKENDS AT ALL COSTS or you will feel like you are at an amusement park waiting to get on a ride," cautions Rebecca E. about popular springs. Weekdays offer a more peaceful experience.

    Tips for Camping with Families

    Choose spacious sites: Wekiwa Springs State Park offers family-friendly sites with room for activities. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees. A very clean park," shares Lauren W. Handicap-accessible features include a water lift at the springs.

    Pet-friendly precautions: While most campgrounds near Astor welcome dogs, wildlife presents hazards. "Be careful of ticks and alligators if you have your dog!!" warns Tina L. Keep dogs leashed and supervised, especially near water areas where wildlife concentrates.

    Pack for varied conditions: Weather changes quickly in central Florida. "The sites are 'semiprivate' with our neighbors being able to see right though to us but it is what it is," notes Gabby C. about Alexander Springs. Consider bringing screens or tarps for additional privacy.

    Tips from RVers

    Leveling challenges: Blue Spring State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven sites. "Campground sites feel secluded with vegetation but can be challenging for backing up into spots," advises Emily C. Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites feature sandy or uneven terrain.

    Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit generator use. "Would be 5 stars if they had some sites with electric hookups. Outside of that a great place for tent camping," mentions Daniel S. about Alexander Springs. Check regulations when booking non-hookup sites.

    Water fill stations: At campgrounds without full hookups, plan water usage carefully. "No water or electric, but every couple sites there was a drinking water fill up station," notes Gabby C. Bring portable water containers for refills during extended stays.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Astor, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Astor, FL is Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area with a 4.5-star rating from 46 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Astor, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 280 dog-friendly camping locations near Astor, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.