Withlacoochee State Forest campgrounds near Lacoochee welcome pets across multiple locations with full hookup options. Cypress Glen, Silver Lake, Crooked River, River Junction, and Hog Island campgrounds all permit dogs with standard leash requirements. These established sites feature a mix of tent and RV accommodations with varying amenities - some providing electric hookups, water access, and picnic tables ideal for campers traveling with pets. Florida Sand Music Ranch (formerly Sertoma Youth Camp) offers a unique camping experience with dogs, hosting regular music festivals throughout the year while maintaining pet-friendly policies. The rolling hills and natural setting create peaceful surroundings where campers often see wildlife while their dogs enjoy the outdoor experience.
The Withlacoochee River area provides numerous pet exercise opportunities with interconnected trail systems throughout the forest. Silver Lake offers water access where dogs can cool off during hot Florida days, though pet owners should be prepared for the steep embankment when accessing the water. Trails throughout Withlacoochee State Forest accommodate leashed dogs with varied terrain suitable for different activity levels. Campers with pets frequently mention highway noise from nearby I-75 can be noticeable at some campgrounds, but the natural surroundings and wildlife viewing opportunities generally offset this drawback. Multiple campers report successfully bringing multiple dogs to these locations, with facilities generally kept clean despite occasional maintenance delays during off-peak seasons or pandemic restrictions.
$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
"The down fall is that the sites are around a lake/river, so many of them are on a slope."
"Pets are allowed on leash. Nothing much for kids to do but my kids enjoyed walking the campground loop and walking the trails."
$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."
$14 / night
"I just called them and none are walk-in. All has to be reserved. And you are not allowed pets."
"Pets are NOT allowed. I just wanted to clarify, since the listing states they are. Bathrooms are decent and the showers have hot water. Sites 1 thru 3 are walk up only."
"Hottest month in Florida but still we had a lovely time here at this park. It was our first time taking our 2016 class C out on the road as total newbies."
"This is a great free camping area in the Florida wilderness. Plenty of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. The Florida trail is nearby."
"Crooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75."
"Even though you can't bring your dogs here (Cypress Glenn you can - it's just down the road, but not as secluded and more for RV's)."
$14 / night
"hog) is located on the eastern bank of the Withlacoochee river close to the small town of Nobleton."
"But it's sapose to be no pets. And a camper near us had a very large dog in a cage that barked all day. Very annoying. Bad area for ticks. Rangers check sites several times a day and are very nice."
"We hiked out about a mile along the Florida Trail and stayed for a night at the Gator Hole campsite. It was so peaceful, lots of space to explore (we had a 3 year old and two dogs!)"
"Stayed at Ashley campground, which is free with a reservation through Southwest Florida water management."
$22 / night
"There is a beautiful lake that you can canoe/kayak/boat on, and a great trail that runs along side of it, but it is super close to I75."
"I only heard it when outside (hearing impaired). The have a decent bath house, nice walking trails and it’s closed to Croom trails State ATV/Dirt bike."
"Located in Brooksville Florida, you will find more of Florida's nature hidden here. There's a swamp like lake in the back with plenty of birds to see."
"The Florida Sand Music Ranch is a small campground that has big music events throughout the year. We are her for a 3-day blues music festival."
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!
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!
LegendThe Hog Island Recreation Area is located on the eastern bank of the Withlacoochee river close to the small town of Nobleton. Part of the recreation area includes the Hog Island Nature Trail, part of the Trailwalker Program and officially certified as part of the longer Florida National Scenic Trail. The Hog Island Campground (fl-dof.com) provides nicely shaded and dry campsites for tent and RV campers with picnic tables and fire rings at each site. These sites are amazingly screened from each other with natural understory vegetation and access to the Withlacoochee River. Restroom with showers (which could use a little love and care), water spigots and a dump station are located nearby. Campers arriving by canoe can stay at a riverside campsite that includes access to drinking water.
This is a good campground with pretty decent warm/hot showers and electric hookups, so you aren't going to really be spending a few days completely off the grid. Although, cellular service is spotty, but mostly usable. The camp hosts were really nice and supposedly no pets are allowed, but I definitely heard some dogs at night. Just a few steps away is the Hog Island boat ramp, nature trail and a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail leaving you with lots to do.
You get your standard nice campground features
· Large shared picnic area
· Good fishing
· Canoe and boat launch
· No pets allowed.
*I heard some dogs and there were basically no one around, so maybe the host let some people get away with it…
· 2-mile loop Nature Trail.
· Hiking trails:
· Equestrian trails:
TravelerEasy access to I 75 Has nice pond with wildlife , cabins to rent and all services . Friendly staff and dog park.
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!
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.
GuideLoved our stay at Fort Wilderness. Our favorite Disney Resort. Super dog friendly with an amazing dog park. Great location and so many wonderful things to do here.
Withlacoochee State Forest area offers primitive and developed camping options within 30 minutes of Lacoochee. Elevations range from 40-75 feet across the region, with sandy soil and scattered limestone outcroppings creating a distinctive terrain. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity while winter nights can drop into the 40s, requiring appropriate gear for comfortable camping.
River paddling: Try Withlacoochee River: At River Junction Campground, the river provides excellent paddling opportunities. "We had a blast there stayed at campsite 14 it has its own private pool right in front of it with cold spring water it was an awesome experience," says John O.
Nature hiking: Explore trails year-round: Colt Creek State Park offers well-maintained trails with wildlife viewing. "A lovely fishing doc with easy access and bathrooms are just wonderful. There is a paved trail as well as wide dirt trails to explore," notes Jeanene A.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk viewing: Morning hours offer the best wildlife spotting chances. "Get up early in the morning and take walk and you are sure to see some deer," reports Lynn S. about Hog Island Campground.
Music events: Attend seasonal festivals: The former Sertoma Youth Camp, now called Florida Sand Music Ranch, hosts regular music events. "We go for the blues and woodstock festival. They also have other festivals throughout the year," explains wayne S.
Secluded sites: Privacy between campsites: Crooked River Campground offers well-separated camping spots. "The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore," writes Danae N.
River access: Cool off during hot days: Many campers value the water access. "The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs, they all agree that this was there favorite part," continues Danae N. about her experience at Crooked River.
Primitive camping experience: Less crowded options: Green Swamp West Tract provides more isolated camping. "We hiked out about a mile along the Florida Trail and stayed for a night at the Gator Hole campsite. It was so peaceful, lots of space to explore," says Kelly S.
Natural setting: Florida wildlife encounters: The forest habitat supports diverse wildlife. "Like others have said, make sure to bring in everything you need as it's a hike back to civilization. Wildlife was crazy the night we stayed," notes Jeff A. about Hog Island.
Highway noise: Interstate proximity impacts: Some campgrounds like Silver Lake sit near I-75. "I rated this park a four, only because it's not really meant for a long stay for tent campers or for a lot of activities... it is super close to I75. I am a heavy sleeper, and actually appreciate 'white noise' but for others tent camping, it may be inconvenient," explains Malaney H.
Access challenges: Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds have rough entry roads. "The road in called SW 113 ST was hardcore off road muddy driving. We pay for the sites so the road in could have been a lot less treacherous. Potholes all the way to the site," reports TERIA M. about River Junction.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have spotty reception. "Barely any cell service so wasn't ideal for my work situation and had to go into town. 1-2 bars of 4G via AT&T," notes Abby M. about Green Swamp West.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and bugs: Summer camping requires preparation. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. from Hillsborough River State Park.
Accessible options: Consider disability needs: Withlacoochee River Park offers inclusive camping. "We stayed in the recreation field which was great! It was wide open when we were there, quiet, and overall very relaxing," reports William C.
Kid-friendly water activities: Safe swimming spots: Crooked River has water access suitable for children. "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The walk to the river from our site was so worth it," shares Danae N.
Playground access: Built-in entertainment: Withlacoochee River Park provides additional recreation. "Next to campground you will find a historic church, a large and small cabin available for rent, 2 playgrounds, shelters, large pavilion with grill/fire pit, fishing dock, canoe launch," explains Jeanene A.
Site selection for kids: Choose sites with space for exploration. "We had site 74 and really enjoyed it. It was huge and secluded! Our kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors," recommends Danae N.
Level site selection: Check campground information: At Cypress Glen Campground, site topography varies. "The down fall is that the sites are around a lake/river, so many of them are on a slope. I went when it was a rainier weekend and the water went through my site to the lake/river behind," advises Malaney H.
Hookup availability: Water and electric options: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Lacoochee offer varied hookup options. "These were nice sites, clean bath house. Right on silver lake Great if you want to kayak the Withlacoochee River. Site are level there are a few on hills good for smaller camper," shares Steve N. about Cypress Glen.
Dumping facilities: Plan your tank management: Cypress Glen includes convenient services. "Nice new dump sites," notes Steve N., which makes longer stays more practical for RVers.
Size restrictions: Know your rig limitations: Some campgrounds have access issues for larger RVs. "Be aware, it may be very difficult to get large RV's in the sites. The trip into the campground is very bumpy & narrow, with low hanging trees," warns Regan P. about River Junction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Lacoochee, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Lacoochee, FL is Colt Creek State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Lacoochee, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 313 dog-friendly camping locations near Lacoochee, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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