Searching for a campsite that allows pets near Jay? Find the best information on pet-friendly campsites and dispersed camping near Jay, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Each pet-friendly campsite offers quick access to one or more of Jay's most popular destinations.
Fort Pickens Campground is situated on Santa Rosa Island, a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore south of Pensacola and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Visitors are drawn to the Gulf of Mexico for Gulf Islands National Seashore's emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Come explore with us today! Each camp site offers a fire pit, picnic table, and a paved pad to park on. There are heated showers and flush toilets. We offer electric and non-electric sites. Many of our sites have restrictions from low limbs or bushes so be sure you will fit. Limited overflow parking is available. Choose a site that will accommodate all of your equipment. Campers may not stay in the campground more than 14 consecutive days. This policy is strictly enforced. Entrance fees are required for the Fort Pickens area and are good for seven consecutive days from purchase. Pets are not allowed on any beaches sound and gulf side, ferries, piers, in forts, batteries, pavilions, or inside facilities.
Many visitors young and old come to Fort Pickens to enjoy its scenic location on the beach. The white sands of Santa Rosa Island are the perfect place for a long walk or an afternoon of building sandcastles. The warm ocean waters are great for swimming and snorkeling. Fishermen will find a pier just a short distance from the picnic pavilions. It can be used by visitors without a Florida fishing license. Many hiking trails through the sand dunes provide beautiful views and hours of exploration. Historic Fort Pickens, a pentagonal fort built to defend Pensacola Bay in 1834, is just 1 mile from the campground. The structure was fortified after the War of 1812 and was one of four forts in the South never occupied by Confederates during the Civil War.
The campground is located on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay. Groves of live oak trees are scattered across the island, providing shelter for resident and migrating bird populations, as well as shade for park visitors. The Gulf Islands National Seashore is home to sparkling blue waters, white beaches and coastal marshes. However, more than 80% of the national park is underwater, as it's a vital protective habitat to marine life.
The campground is a short distance from restaurants and beach nightlife, downtown Pensacola, the Pensacola Naval Air Station and Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse and other historic sites. Campsites are within 1/4 mile of the beaches of the Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay.
Cancellation and modification fees are non-refundable.
$20 - $40 / night
The campground consists of 30 sites nestled among towering longleaf pine, magnolia trees and Atlantic white cedar. The Magnolia Loop features a playground that is easily viewed from most of the sites in the loop. The sites range from fully shaded to sunny.
Each campsite has 20, 30 and 50 amp electric service, potable water connections, RV sewer hookup, picnic table, fire ring and grill. The sites can accommodate all types of tent camping and 50-foot RVs. A playground is available for the kids.
From the campground, the Juniper Lake Trail opens up to the unspoiled beauty of the Blackwater River for hikers, beachgoers and anglers. A well-maintained restroom with showers is located between the two loops and is accessible via boardwalk from each camping loop.
Pets are welcome in designated areas.
A dump station is located on the campground road.
Maximum RV length = 50 ft.
$20 / night
The Bear Lake Campground is located within the Bear Lake Recreation Area, in the Blackwater River State Forest (Santa Rosa County), about 1-hour northeast of Pensacola, FL. This campground is located next to Bear Lake (107 acres) and has the following facilities: campsites with electric and water (potable), campsites with water (potable) only, dump station, a group dining hall with kitchen available by reservation only and restrooms with showers, boat ramp (electric motors only) and fishing pier. Recreational activities featured here are: fishing, hiking, mountain biking (6-mile trail), canoeing, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing and photography.Blackwater River State Forest is the largest state forest in Florida, with over 210,000 acres of woodlands, lakes, and streams that has outstanding forest and water resources. It is named for the Blackwater River, which begins in neighboring Conecuh County, Alabama, and meanders southwestward through the forest. With the adjacent federal landholdings of Conecuh National Forest, to the north, and Eglin Air Force Base, to the south, this area is the largest contiguous ecological community of the longleaf pine - wiregrass ecosystem in the world. For further information about Blackwater River State Forest, please Click Here.Blackwater River State Forest has campgrounds, day-use areas and recreational trails that offer a variety of activities such as swimming, hiking, camping, canoeing, nature study, birding, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and mountain biking. This forest is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail and Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Get outdoors and explore the recreational opportunities at Blackwater River State Forest; for further information please Click Here.Bear Lake has electric and non-electric sites available for recreational vehicles or tents. Bathrooms with showers are available. There is a boat ramp, fishing pier, hiking trail, and dining hall with pavilion. The dining hall pavilion use is by reservation only.Blackwater Canoe Rental, Bob's Canoes, Adventures Unlimited, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Air Force Armament Museum, Okaloosa Island Pier, National Naval Aviation Museum, Navarre Beach, Pensacola Beach, Gulf of Mexico Activities and Amenities: BathhouseBird WatchingBoat RampBoating, CanoeingCampground HostCamping, Improved SiteCanoe RentalDock, FishingDump StationFire RingsFish Cleaning StationFishingFishing, PierHikingHiking TrailKioskMountain/Trail BicyclingNature StudyPhotographyPicnic AreaPicnickingRestroomsRiverRiver/StreamTrails, Hiking/Walking, EasyTrails, Moderate HikingTrails, Mountain BikeWater Access, Park LakeWater DrinkingWildflower ViewingWildlife Viewing
Campers must reserve a site via www.nwfwater.com or by calling (850) 539-5999.
1
$20 / night
Lake Stone Campground is a 100-acre campground and boat ramp facility located in the northern end of the county. The campground has 77 campsites for everything from big RV rigs to tents. Recently updated to accommodate the more modern and much larger RV’s, Lake Stone is the county’s only facility located on a fresh water lake.
Lake Stone facilities include a boat ramp (gasoline engines are not allowed to be used on Lake Stone), indoor public use building, a playground, showers, restrooms, a fishing pier, security lights, electrical and water hookups, a sewage dump station, picnic areas and the beautiful lake.
A small "country store" is available within the office for the campground. For your convenience, various items are ready for purchase. See the campground's caretaker.
Located right off I-10, a short drive from Pensacola and Navarre Beach, Splash RV Resort & Waterpark provides year-round family fun for locals, interstate travelers, and snowbirds alike. Luxury cottages, RV camping, covered wagons, lazy river, pools, and more - SPLASH combines the luxurious amenities of a top-tier resort with the fun & adventure of the best vacation spots in Florida!
The Coldwater Recreation Area, bordered to the north by Coldwater Creek, offers trails that take horseback riders through some of the most scenic woodlands in Florida. Opened in 1974, the facility has been a prized recreation area for bird dog and fox hound field trial participants and horseback riders. The forest around the campground is prescribed burned frequently to promote habitat for quail, red-cockaded woodpeckers, gopher tortoises and other native species. Because of frequent burning, beautiful vistas are located throughout the area.
Traveler
Beautiful view of the lake & spacious sites. Make sure you take supplies, groceries trip is 20-30 minutes
Traveler
Nice and quiet. Good separation between campsites with shade. Bathhouses clean and close to most campsites. Plenty of walking trails. Love the Bird tower and kayak launch. Sandbar near launch to hangout when paddling. Perdido Key state park is close by for great beach access. Free if staying at Big Lagoon.
GuideCampground and beach area as well as bathrooms are in good shape. Camp sites are missing shade trees from hurricanes. Worth a stop👍
Scout
We used this place for the stop for the night during our cross country road trip. The pull through site 67 had a nice level slab which was nice. Free wifi available and no contact check in. Late check in was perfectly fine. Alot of folks do live here.
Guide
Really nice place to camp for folks who enjoy access to an uncrowded beach. There's a 25$ entrance fee(one time fee for campers)at the gate coming into the Gulf Islands area so not many folks who just want to go to the beach. The sites aren't spectacular(not a lot of shade)but they do have the basics 30/50 Amp service at many sites (campground D is tent/popup specific). Clean bathhouses and well maintained grounds. This was our 1st time visiting in the middle of summer (who knew FL is hot and humid in July) we enjoyed the trip but in the future will make spring and fall for our target dates. Access to beautiful beaches and the sound are minutes away. Fees were 40$ a night at the time of our visit.
Guide
This is a busy spot but has everything you need close by, they serve food, ice cream, and drinks.
Scout
It’s pretty new. It’s clean. The owner is great. He allowed us an early check in. Some full timers. Some passing thru one night only. Everyone friendly. It’s quiet. No parties. No loud music. Not much shade. Small spaces. No bathrooms. Few spaces back up to a 4 lane highway. Full hookups are nice. We were in town for the Blue Angels and didn’t spend much time at the park. It’s about 25mi or 45min from Pensacola Beach.
Scout
Had the best time at Splash RV. It was my son’s birthday during our stay and they delivered a huge wooden cupcake with balloons to our campsite the day of his birthday. Staff is constantly cleaning up. Plenty of washers and dryers for laundry. Cute camp store and small arcade. Pool amazing is fun and clean.
ScoutThe staff at 밤의전쟁 are friendly and attentive.
Legend
Located in the sleepy hamlet of MaryEsther, which lies equidistant between Pensacola and Destin, not too far from this stunning stretch of the Gulf comprised of emerald aqua slowly lolloping ripples of waves that wet the pristine white powder sand beaches that you’ll be lucky to stroll down should you find yourself in this part of the Sunshine state, Grater RV Hideaway Cove is less the traditional RV depot and more of someone’s idea to turn a small plot of unused residential land into a fenced-in, maze-like RV resting spot.
So let me begin by saying that this micro-RV lot, which boasts just 9 slots, will not be for everyone, especially those that are looking for a pristine encounter with nature. Here, where you will be completely encased by 10-foot-tall wooden fences, which are for the most part, brand spanking new, with each site having some very decent space to spread out your camp. There are quaint touches throughout this place that attempts to convey a feeling of homeliness and familial welcoming, which somehow contrasts with all of the other signs you’ll encounter stating ‘private property’ or ‘you are under video surveillance’ from the few houses that are also encased inside this same wooden fenced-in residential enclave. In short, there’s a bit of a spooky element to this place, and dare I say (only because I'm now watching it for the second time now) giving off a bit of a 'LOST' vibe? Jack, Kate, Sawyer and, most importantly, Hurley, can you help me?!
I’ll be honest, rather than 'LOST' this place reminds me a bit of the dystopian scenario that plays out in episode 3 of ‘The Last of Us,’ wherein Bill, brilliantly played by Nick Offerman, is a post-apocalyptic survivalist who, once the entire town has been evacuated by the government, builds a fence around his entire neighborhood and nearby shops, fortifying this doomsday oasis with electric fencing, video cameras, search lights and booby traps. All in all though, if you can get over the eeriness of this place, I’m sure it’s a wonderful, private experience for those who don’t mind the set up and location that they find themselves encased within.
Amenities: 360 degrees of 10’ tall wooden fencing, very level back-in sites with freshly laid gravel along with full hook-ups (20 / 30 / 50 amp electricity, water and sewage), pet friendly and, of course, security surveillance! There’s no onsite bathroom, shower facilities or even WiFi (why would one need these things in an apocalypse?).
Insider’s tips? (1) This is certainly not a destination, and more of an option for those that simply need to park their RV somewhere for the night, unless that is, you really don’t mind the desolate environment of a ‘fenced-in-backyard’ kind of vibe; (2) As you are located just 3-4 blocks away from the main 4-line highway 98 here, you really are located close to prime beach heads, where you can either cross directly south of the highway to The Narrows or move further west to Upper Pritchard Long Point, both of which make perfect places to launch paddleboards and kayaks or go for a day of fly fishing; (3) When you get tired of trying to conjure up something interesting for your next meal, you will want to say ‘Mahalo’ later after heading on over to Kalai’s Hawaiian Kitchen for some amazing Kalua Pork, BBQ Chicken or Garlic Shrimp that really will make you feel like ‘Ohana’; and (4) If you’re traveling with kiddos, head on over to Emerald Coast Science Center for interactive, hands-on exhibits featuring biology, colors, vehicles and the human body.
Happy Camping!
LegendWould highly recommend this adorable RV Park. Peaceful spot and we felt safe. Level gravel sites with nice FHUs! Owner Russel is very helpful & friendly and pays special attention to the landscaping with added touches, such as nice new picnic tables and a hammock at our sight, and charming outdoor decor! Close to Beaches, restaurants, shopping, and many area attractions! Walmart and Publix, with a pharmacy and liquor store, and a Citgo, just around the corner, on Hwy 98. Donut shop, Hibachi, laundry mat, coffee shop, and Murphy’s Vet clinic, literally across the street. I had Good reception with T-Mobile @ 4 bars.
Legend
This review is written as a short stay versus a destination campground (CG). Our RV GPS and Waze took us to the Pensacola area, and then we followed the email instructions for coming in Eastbound on I-10 and taking exit 7A. They are the second RV park on Wilde Lake Blvd, 1/2 mile past the large Wilde Lake Church on the left. Check-in was super friendly and we were escorted to pull through site 64 with FHUs. 50 psi on water, 5 bars on Verizon, and a good shot to the north sky as requested for Starlink as this was Super Bowl Sunday. They had cable but we didn't use it. We were in what seemed to be their short-term area. The sites were close together but we did have a little brick patio with a picnic table. Solid CG for a few days.
ScoutPerfect for anyone wanting to have a nice quiet stay near the beach. Can get pretty packed during the busy season though
Legend
Our site was pull thru, all with FHU, great water pressure, gravel sites. Great place to decompress and unwind, in a natural environment. Spacious sites, also saw a nice tent area, several portable potty’s, and a free to use washer and dryer in the Hanger/guest clubhouse , that also has a sink station, picnic tables, and grilling area! Lots of added touches! 3 dog parks, dog washing station, mutt mitts throughout park(which was much appreciated,) a nice playground, tree swing, volleyball area, soccer field, and disc golf. This is our third time here, the first was for the balloon festival, and we stayed in a smaller back-in site, second time was for our granddaughter’s cheer competition, in Orange Beach, and now we are here to kick off the summer with our grand at OWA! The pull through site was partly shady and more than accommodating, with our truck and 40” RV. T-Mobile was ok, but we used our Starlink for work and streaming, which was awesome…no interference. We went to the fireworks at OWA tonight and ate at The Goat and watched the playoffs! The rest of the week will be full of fun at Tropic Falls, and ACC is within minutes of restaurants, stores and beaches!
Scout
This was a nice spot and was free. You do have to have a reservation. It's a little unlevel and best to back in. Be sure to get a site map, or it will be hard to find.
LegendWe have been to Splash RV two times now. Last time was before school started, and it has been our granddaughters favorite RV park so far. There are a lot of activities planned for the kids….the free donuts on the weekend, were a hit. Our sites were back in, with full hook ups, level site and picnic table. The lazy river and waterslides were her favorite. We especially liked the armband so the kids were able to purchase food, drinks, game tokens for the arcade, which was great on the day that it rained the karaoke was also a lot of fun, and the foam party was a blast to watch. Staff was very nice. The bathrooms and laundry facilities were clean and large, but We did not use. The dog park is very big with a dog washing station. Piggly Wiggly is nearby as well as gas stations and dollar store…it is a little more pricey than we normally spend, but it was worth it to see the smile on our granddaughters face. I would recommend looking at the map online, before booking, to make sure you choose the right spot for your RV as some are closer together than others.
TravelerThe staff at오피스타 are friendly and attentive.
Legend
Nice campground, gravel site with small pad with picnic table and fire ring. FHU, and plenty of activities and amenities for our granddaughter. Playground, mini golf, large outdoor Connect Four game. Nice dog park, camp store and pool, but too cold to swim. Didn’t use facilities, but looked clean. Tents and cabins in backside of the park. I would reserve there if possible some interstate noise upfront. Staff friendly and took us to our site. Love the bike trails nearby.
Guide
This is a really nice place, convenient to all the areas of Foley. All campsites have a wide concrete pad, fully electric with water and sewer. The shower bathrooms were very clean and open 24 seven. I personally had one issue in that I had a long day, and arrived later in the evening, but the Friday night karaoke did not end until after 10 PM, so I didn’t get to sleep as soon as I wanted to. However, I got over it and slept a little bit later the next morning and went about my business for the day. Our second night Saturday evening was just fine. I would definitely stay here again if I come through the area. Our corner campsite was close to two intersecting roads, and occasionally a loud vehicle will pass by. As I am used to some noise in the evening, it didn’t bother me, but it might bother someone else who is looking for complete silence. But that has more to do with the location of some of the campsites so feel free to book sites in the center of the campground if they are available. I still give this place four out of five stars. Although each individual campsite has Wi-Fi, I had a strong signal on Verizon 5G ultra wideband.
Guide
We had some rain but wasn't a big deal. The site we had was superb as had plenty of elbow room and with all the trees and bushes, could not even see the camper next to us. Great location if you want to drive into Pensacola. Was nice walk to the river with all the sandbars.
Legend
Quaint, private RV property! Owner Russell is extremely accommodating, and it is easy to book online. Stayed with our dogs for 2 weeks. Level Gravel Sites, with FHU. Lots of charming details given to the landscape. Our site had a hammock and cute plaques with sayings. Close to Navarre and Okaloosa Island beaches. And many restaurants and shopping! We Would definitely stay here again!
GuideThis campground has spacious campsites and not too far from a river. The river has soft Sandy bends, Perfect for swimming in. The campground has electric sewer and water. The restrooms were very clean here.
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!
Scout
Our family drove over an hour to fish here. Upon arriving at the gate, we weren’t even greeted. A older lady stood up and just stared at us with a mean look. After about a 30 second stare, she finally said“hi”. I said“hi”. Another 15 second stare and she said”can I help you?” Very rudely. I said“yes we’re here to fish”. She said“we’re closed”. I asked what time they close daily and mentioned that google says open 24hrs and their website doesn’t list hours and she said“4”. I said we drove an hour here and you don’t close for another 45 min can we just drive through and look around, it’s our first time here. She said well I’m not charging you. I said this place was recommended to me on Facebook-can we at least look around? She said“no we’re closed”. I said ok what’s the price? She said we’re closed. I said I understand what you’re saying but what is the price? She sat down and refused to answer me. We left. We probably won’t be back. I decided to check around to see their reviews and it seems this lady is rude to everyone. Why has she not been replaced? I believe her name is Tracy. I tried to find out who her boss was by calling and emailing. However, no one answers the phone and she told me via email she’s the supervisor. SHE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED! So many people complain about her!!
GuideDid an overnight pit stop only. Conveniently located of the freeway, yet quiet. Fenced in dog yard. The staff is super helpful and friendly!
TravelerBlackwater River State Park is a hidden gem. Yet another one of the state of Florida's fantastic state parks. You don't need the beach when you've got the pristine white sands of the shores of Blackwater river. The river and the surrounds are super quiet, peaceful and beautiful. Tubing, kayaking canoeing are all super here as is the bike riding, if you know where to go, (hint: follow the road to the boat ramp just north of the entrance).
TravelerThe campground itself is beautiful. The noise level is terrible. So if you are retired or want a nice, quiet place, this isn't it. The sprawling playground that aligns the campsites assures of loud, screaming children at all hours. Further, either there is no noise ordinance, or it is not enforced as loud music is ongoing into the night. Unfortunately, have to strike this beautiful spot off the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Jay, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Jay, FL is Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore with a 4.6-star rating from 94 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Jay, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 91 dog-friendly camping locations near Jay, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
