Wilderness Shores Ranch offers pet-friendly camping on a sprawling ranch where dogs can accompany guests to all areas including hiking trails along the water. RV sites have water and 30/50 amp hookups, while tent campers have access to clean shower facilities. The property welcomes dogs of all sizes with no breed restrictions, allowing pets to explore the extensive grounds alongside their owners. Owners Paul and Tony maintain a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and their pets, with many campers noting the freedom their dogs enjoy while exploring the nature-rich environment. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort provides designated pet areas including well-maintained dog parks and pet washing stations, complementing their spacious sites with paver patios and turf that dogs particularly enjoy.
Saddle Creek Park Campground permits pets throughout the camping area but requires them to be leashed at all times when outside RVs. The park features numerous fishing ponds where dogs can accompany their owners along shorelines while maintaining appropriate distance from wildlife. Hillsborough River State Park Campground allows pets in all accommodation types including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and glamping options, though dogs must remain on leashes no longer than six feet. Temperatures in Highland City reach summer highs that can be dangerous for pets, so many campgrounds provide shaded areas and water access points for cooling off. Most locations require proof of current vaccinations and charge modest pet fees ranging from $5-10 per night depending on the campground. Local veterinary services are available in nearby Lakeland and Winter Haven, approximately 15 minutes from most camping areas.
$67 - $302 / night
"Easy location to get to. The lots are pretty wide open with little shade, but we had a tiki, which was awesome. Pool was nice and warm. Kids loved the slide. Dog park and wash are a bonus."
"They are pet friendly & have dog poo stations along the roads. Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff."
$24 / night
"If you like to hike, there are a bunch of different trails to walk and they run alongside the river."
"Better if not during rainy season here in Florida. The ground was wet. Some sites had overflow from the river, I guess? Our site was nice. We had water and electricity. Pretty quiet. Lots of dogs."
$40 - $75 / night
"Great privately owned campsite for those wanting to get away from crowds and overly-popular sites."
"Hike along the water on trails, off road biking, and up close viewing of the beautiful ranch animals ( steer and goats )."
$10 - $20 / night
"Thrift and bait shop nearby."
$24 / night
"What a beautiful well kept facility near suburbia. Just a short drive from Tampa and Lakeland areas this first come first served facility is a favorite of locals."
"Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours. Camp sites are bit close to one another but overall amazing experience."
$56 - $201 / night
"Pet friendly with dog parks and trails."
"Super dog friendly with an amazing dog park. Great location and so many wonderful things to do here."
$24 / night
"Okay, so I didn’t do a ton of research, but I have driven around here before so I decided to get one of the primitive sites and do a little gear testing. 5+ per person/night -Bundles of firewood available"
"Colt Creek State Park is one of the newer parks in the Florida State Park System. We had the opportunity to camp at one of the handicap accessible sites recently and found it to be very convenient."
$22 / night
"Widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails. Not much else to do in the area, but very nice space to chill out. The night sky is far enough away that you can really take in the stars."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
"Located just south of Lakeland this park offers multiple amenities for group gatherings including a large firepit and stage area."
"Large dispersed camping area with good views of the airshow, included access to the ground display area, and great facilities considering how large the event is."
TravelerPricey but it's Disney. Lots of activities to do at the campground without going to the parks. Clean and well maintained campsites and bathrooms. The roads are narrow in the loops and the sites can be difficult to get into. Pet friendly with dog parks and trails.
LegendIt’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!
GuideStayed here for a week in May - quiet, pretty campground with friendly staff, a petting zoo and vegetable farm on property. We enjoyed the produce market, but you could also go in the fields and pick your own. Camper sites had enough room between them, the electric/water sites had good tree cover for shade. There were cabins, a silo, and covered wagons you could also stay in. There's a big dog park, but not much shade there. There's a winery just 1 mile away. The Sarasota beaches and mangrove kayaking are an easy 45 minute drive away. The only thing I wished they had was a pool... Overall, we had a nice time here.
RangerThis is probably the largest park we have ever stayed in. We normally go for the smaller quaint parks but we decided to try it out. We went along the outside rim in site Mako 7. The sites are large enough and have most have full hook ups. Not many trees for shade, but it is in Florida so that is to be expected. We were fortunate to have a couple of grassy areas around close to walk the dog. There is a dog park but it was on the other end of the campground. We did go one day and the park is nice. It’s sand and has poop bags. But no water for drinking so take your own. This side of the park had more trees and was nice for walking around with the dog. No WiFi in the area closest to the dog park. Sites seemed mostly level but only the new section has nice concrete pads. The older sections are hit and miss as to what the site looks like. All in all it’s a great location for visiting all the local attractions... (but we didn’t do that).
GuideLithia Springs Conservation Park is a hidden gem for camping in Florida. The campground is clean, well-maintained, and tucked away in a peaceful natural setting. Sites are spacious with plenty of shade, and the amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are kept in great shape. The best part is being just a short walk from the beautiful natural spring, perfect for swimming and cooling off. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. I’ll definitely be coming back!
GuideNice place to stay in Palmetto. I just moved into my RV and this was my very first camping stop so I had TONS of questions and needed quite a bit of help. The staff were super friendly and the neighbors were extremely helpful in showing me how to get everything set up. They have a nice pool and laundry facilities - would recommend coming with a separate vehicle as there's not much within walking distance, but it's only a short drive to Tampa, St. Pete, and the Sarasota/Bradenton area. They also have a nice size, fenced-in dog park with a dog walking path, so bring your furry friends!
GuideThis park is full of great adventures. If you like to hike, there are a bunch of different trails to walk and they run alongside the river. You may even have the opportunity to catch site of some alligators as this river is very populated with them. There is also a cute shop and cafe so if your not feeling up to cooking, you can head there. At the shop you have the opportunity to swim in the pool, rent kayaks, canoes, and bikes. I also love that they are pet friendly. I take my dog everywhere (and sometimes my cat) and they enjoyed the trails just as much as I did!
LegendIn Palmetto, easy access to Tampa, Sarasota, Gulf Beaches, and many other areas of Florida in a few hours driving distance.
Pet-friendly.
GuideThis campground was adequate and very close to I-4. Sites are accommodating and clean. Pool and restaurant on site. If you have a dog they have a couple of dog parks on site buy I would recommend sites 36, 37 or 38. Large grass area for your own private dog area.
Camping areas near Highland City provide convenient access to central Florida's lakes and recreational opportunities. Located in Polk County at an elevation of approximately 125 feet, this region experiences humid subtropical weather with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through September. Winter camping offers more comfortable conditions with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 65-75°F.
Hiking trails along water features: Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers several trails where visitors can view Florida's only Class II rapids. One visitor noted, "Nice little getaway... several short trails to see The only class 2 rapids in Florida. Pretty wild."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Alafia River State Park Campground, campers regularly spot native wildlife. "This is such an awesome place! I go here every year to see all of the various birds that migrate here, as well as to enjoy alittle bit of mountain biking," reports one regular visitor.
Fishing in multiple locations: Saddle Creek Park and Campground offers abundant fishing opportunities across numerous ponds. A camper mentioned, "Great spot for fishing. Thrift and bait shop nearby," highlighting the practical amenities for anglers.
Mountain biking trails: Several parks in the Highland City area maintain dedicated mountain biking paths. "This campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. The bath houses are immaculate. There is bus service throughout the campground with bus and boat service to the Parks," notes a visitor to Disney's Fort Wilderness.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at Colt Creek State Park Campground. "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water an each site for RV camping. Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks," reports one visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe native Florida wildlife. A visitor at Colt Creek mentioned, "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets."
Water recreation options: Edward Medard Park provides multiple water activities. One camper shared, "We had a great time while staying here. There was a total of 8 of us including children. And with the paved bike trails, Easy access fishing, and decent size sites, we were always busy."
First-come, first-served options: Some parks don't require advance reservations. According to a visitor, "Edward Medard Park is a first come, first serve type campground. Very pretty and wooded for Florida. Great to bike around and see everything. Neat to see gators."
Summer heat considerations: Highland City experiences very hot summers that require preparation. "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents. However, sites are not shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS!"
Insect protection requirements: Bug protection is essential, particularly during warmer months. At Hillsborough River State Park, one camper warned, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
Seasonal crowding patterns: Some campgrounds experience significant crowding during peak periods. A visitor noted about Camp Margaritaville, "We had a great time. The camp sites and the whole resort area is very clean and safe. The only negative was that the pool area seemed a little small for the number of people there. Very crowded."
Noise considerations: Train tracks and highways near some campgrounds create noise issues. A visitor to Cypress Campground reported, "Hook ups and cable were excellent. Have to pay for wifi. Bathrooms, laundry facilities are plentiful and very clean. Pool and amenities are good. Site is level, but concrete pads are older and cracked."
Pool amenities for children: Camp Margaritaville RV Resort offers extensive water recreation. "We love this Margaritaville location! The staff is always friendly, they've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults," shared a family camper.
Multi-generational activities: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Highland City provide activities for all ages. A Camp Margaritaville visitor noted, "They even have a big farmers market on Sundays with tons of vendors. They are pet friendly & have dog poo stations along the roads."
Playground availability: Check which campgrounds maintain playgrounds for younger visitors. One visitor commented, "Came with my family and we had a great time! The sites are awesome and very clean. They have plenty of activities for kids and adults at the resort."
Seasonal children's programming: Disney's Fort Wilderness schedules special activities for families. "We really love camping here. The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. The bath houses are immaculate."
Site sizing and access: Maneuverability varies significantly between campgrounds. At Wilderness Shores Ranch, "We stayed in our RV, with water and 30/50. Septic dump station. Clean showers/bathrooms for tent folks/boondockers. Quiet and gorgeous; as every site has a view of the water, and trees/nature is abundant."
Hookup reliability: Water pressure fluctuates across different parks. A camper at Colt Creek noted, "We love this place. The long and windy ride in gives you a trip back to some real Florida. The campground is well maintained and has large, level sites."
Wi-Fi availability: Internet access varies significantly among dog-friendly campgrounds near Highland City. One visitor commented, "Awesome place. Great for kids and pets. Wifi was amazing. Staff was super friendly. Huge lots with tons of stuff to do."
Premium vs. standard sites: Site quality and amenities can vary within the same campground. "True resort style camping. Amazing Pool and amenities. Large pull through sites with paver patios, turf, and landscaping. Great activities for the kids," reports a visitor to Camp Margaritaville.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Highland City, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Highland City, FL is Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale with a 4.5-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Highland City, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 236 dog-friendly camping locations near Highland City, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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