8 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Waters Edge Motor Coach & RV Resort welcomes campers with pets at spacious, paved sites offering lakeside views. Torry Island Campground and Pahokee Beach RV Resort maintain pet-friendly policies throughout their grounds with designated waste stations. Most campgrounds near Lake Okeechobee enforce standard leash requirements while providing access to waterfront areas where dogs can cool off during hot Florida days. KOA Campground Okeechobee stands out with its separate K9 park that remains notably clean according to visitors. Campers note the dog park is regularly maintained with no accumulated waste, making it exceptional among similar facilities. Accommodation options include pet-friendly RV sites, tent camping areas, and select cabins at resorts like Zachary Taylor Waterfront RV Resort.
Hiking the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail provides an excellent exercise opportunity for dogs, with access points near multiple pet-friendly campgrounds. Pet owners should be aware of wildlife considerations, particularly alligators in and around the lake's shoreline and connecting canals. Breed restrictions exist at some facilities, with Pahokee Beach RV Resort specifically prohibiting pit bulls and pit bull mixes according to recent visitor reports. During summer months, early morning walks are recommended to avoid heat stress on pets, as afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Most campgrounds provide shaded areas where dogs can rest comfortably during peak heat hours. Nearby veterinary services are available in Okeechobee city, approximately 10-15 minutes from most campgrounds, with emergency pet care available at clinics along Highway 441.
"It's a very busy place on the holidays...If you want quiet those days, I don't suggest you go there...There is also a Golf Course, Golf Cart Rental, A nice updated store, A fenced in Dog park...**"
"Only downside is that while the park is dog friendly, it’s a bit tough to walk the dogs since there aren’t really any paths so you need to walk on the road with golf carts, cars and other people walking"
"This park is the nicest campground in okeechobee its very clean and well taken care of and the staff is so nice and helpful and the spot are nice and big and not too close to each other."
from $100 - $125 / night
"This campground is only an hour away from most spots in South Florida, but it feels much further removed. We were able to get a reservation for tent/van camping the same day."
"Nature trail and observation deck is amazing. Take the kids, take your bicycles and take your dog. We had a blast!"
"There is usually a ton of people that like to hang out around Lake Okeechobee but here it was really nice. There were only a few families but you can get away if you needed to."
"The picnic area has been upgraded and there has been a dog walk integrated with available poop stations. There are cabins on the lake that can be rented out and empty lots as well for campers/rv’s."
"We were blown away with the hospitality, great staff, very clean site even our dog Rascal enjoyed it."
from $45 - $65 / night
"This campground offers one of the best lakefront views in all of Florida—truly a hidden gem if you’re looking to camp right on the water."
from $36 - $48 / night
from $46 / night
"Pet friendly and kid friendly. Not too far from town."
TravelerMy family stayed at the park for a long weekend. Great park, but the vendor contract expired and a new one hasn’t been chosen. Because of this, canoe rentals, firewood, ice, etc. are not available in the park. Thankfully Publix is just up the road. We will be back, but not until the vendor situation is resolved.
RangerI returned back to St Lucie South based on the price, proximity to nearby resources (and I95), and because it was so peaceful during my previous stay. This visit was mostly the same. When I arrived, the host wasn't around. I parked my rig and waited for about 30 minutes before I left the site, and they got me checked in while I was out. With such a small campground, you can generally expect a quiet visit right on the water. That said, this visit included some less courteous neighbors who brought two big dogs across basically every site, barking at people trying to enjoy the peace. I don't blame the park for that one. Side note, if you visit in the summer, consider looking at the angle of the sites and picking one based on your rig. The afternoon sun is pretty brutal on the driver side of some spots (I think mostly 7 and 9).
RangerThis site is in a great spot between the Indian River Lagoon and the beach. They have a ton to do for anyone who likes to enjoy the traditional resort-type amenities. Our canal-front slip was perfect and we capitalized by taking a trip to the Stuart sandbar. Two negatives, the parking is a little tricky depending on which site you get...narrow streets and some cars parked in a way that makes them even worse. I was also disappointed that we didn't get notice about amenities (including the main pool) that had apparently been closed for months. Beautiful regardless.
ScoutI cannot say enough good things about how accommodating and helpful they have been throughout this entire process. Moving to Florida from out of state comes with a lot of moving pieces and uncertainty, and they have been incredibly patient, responsive, and willing to work with me every step of the way. What has stood out the most is that I have never felt like just another transaction. They have taken the time to answer my questions, communicate quickly, reassure me when plans have changed, and genuinely make this transition easier. That kind of hospitality means more than I can express when you’re coordinating a major move from hundreds of miles away. I haven’t even officially arrived yet, and the hospitality they have already shown me from another state has been incredible. If this is the level of kindness, patience, and hospitality they provide before I even get there, I already know the hospitality I’ll receive in person will be just as exceptional. I’m extremely grateful I found Buckin’ Bass RV Park and feel even better knowing this will be my new home in Florida. Highly recommend!
RangerThis site is very neat. You'll have to drive about 5 miles on an unpaved road to get to the sites. 30A hookup and water. I visited during the week in August and it was pretty empty. Nice and quiet. Lots of trails and wildlife.
LegendThere is something quietly thrilling about settling into Savannas Recreational Park, where the landscape feels wide open and wonderfully untamed, with a thoughtfully spaced campground of mostly level sites set among marshes and winding canals that immediately make you feel connected to nature. The park offers clean restrooms, hot showers, laundry and simple but well-kept amenities, and while shade can be limited, the peaceful atmosphere and slower pace make it feel safe and grounding for families who enjoy the outdoors. One evening after dinner, we wandered along the canals and the boys froze in amazement spotting several alligators resting along the banks, barely moving in the fading light, turning a simple walk into one of those unforgettable, wide-eyed moments that had them talking long after bedtime. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families looking for a true Florida wilderness experience thanks to its abundant wildlife, peaceful setting, and those incredible up-close encounters that you just cannot replicate anywhere else.
RangerThis campground is basic but offers some nice marsh-like scenery and is totally worth the price. Full hookups, but they are essentially dirt lots with 15-20 ft of space between them. It's safe to say your neighbors matter. 4 laundry setups at 2.00 per wash or dry. There's a long trail that held some wildlife and there is technically kayaking, but it looked nearly impossible to get through the foliage. The staff up front were kind. They may have the most obnoxious triple speed bumps I've encountered in my life.
RangerI enjoyed a 4-day stay at this campsite. I ended up staying longer than expected, so I used 3 different sites, and there are only about 10 to choose from.
The campground was quiet and pleasant my entire stay. I'd prefer to have a sewer hookup but the dump station is just on the way out. Facilities and dumpster just a minute walk away. Boat ramp and pavilions near the water. Plus, every site has a covered picnic table. I really enjoyed the simplicity of this place, but there isn't a ton to do unless you venture out, depending on your preferences.
RangerOverall a pleasant experience, especially for only my second trip in the RV. My lot was mostly clean, had plenty of space for my truck and 30ft trailer, and had everything I needed. I was expecting a more peaceful trip out in nature, but about 12 people were camping in the lot beside me with their dog off-leash, so there were some moments of frustration with noise and my dog, who is leashed as expected. The observation tower was closed and basically all concessions/tours were as well, but it was still nice to get on some trails.
Lake Okeechobee, Florida's largest freshwater lake, spans 730 square miles with a maximum depth of only 9 feet. The surrounding campgrounds offer direct access to the 110-mile Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, a paved path atop the Herbert Hoover Dike. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter months (November-February) provide milder camping conditions with daytime averages of 70-75°F.
Fishing from shorelines: Most campgrounds offer direct lake or canal access for fishing without a boat. At Torry Island Campground, visitors appreciate the combination of camping and fishing options. "Great spot for fishing and camping. There is a boat ramp near the campground and a bait and tackle store for fishermen," notes reviewer Erika P.
Observe local wildlife: The area hosts numerous bird species, alligators, and native plants. The observation tower at Torry Island provides excellent viewing opportunities. "Nature trail and observation deck is amazing. Take the kids, take your bicycles and take your dog," reports Randy R.
Attend local festivals: Time your visit around local celebrations for an authentic experience. Brian C. recommends: "Holiday festivals, and the end of harvest season festival. Black Gold Jubilee is a must attend."
Direct water access: Many campgrounds offer waterfront sites that enhance the camping experience. At Zachary Taylor Waterfront RV Resort, campers enjoy the location. "We were blown away with the hospitality, great staff, very clean site even our dog Rascal enjoyed it. Huge swimming pool screened in, so much to see and do here," shares David K.
Affordable rates: Several campgrounds offer reasonable pricing compared to coastal Florida options. At Pahokee Marina & Campground, campers find good value. "This campground offers one of the best lakefront views in all of Florida—truly a hidden gem if you're looking to camp right on the water. The sunsets over Lake Okeechobee are absolutely breathtaking," reports Luis V.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers note the peaceful setting away from urban noise. Andrew from Torry Island Campground states: "This campground is only an hour away from most spots in South Florida, but it feels much further removed. The gorgeous water views and walking trail are the perfect way to spend an early morning."
Neighborhood considerations: Some surrounding towns have limited dining options and services. Dave S. from Pahokee Beach RV Resort notes: "Really enjoyed staying here. Excellent park and staff. There was an abundance of things to do especially if you love nature. However, the nearby towns left a lot to be desired there were very few decent places to eat."
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others place units close together. At Lakeside North RV Resort, Heather explains: "We could BARELY get our camper in and out of the waterfront site... Parking is also a NIGHTMARE."
Sugar cane burning impacts: During harvest season, ash from nearby fields may affect your camping experience. One reviewer at Torry Island Campground reported: "Black ash from nearby sugar cane field burning raining down on everything—what a big mess."
Pool amenities for kids: Several campgrounds offer swimming options to keep children entertained. At KOA Campground Okeechobee, Nat W. reports: "There is a lot to do there and the family pool had crystal clear water. Place is very clean and staff were not only friendly but really helpful."
Morning activities: Plan water activities and hikes during morning hours to avoid afternoon heat. Anne M. from KOA notes: "This place is amazing! So much to do! Friendly helpful staff! Kids, dogs, hubby & myself all are having an amazing time."
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn alligator sightings into learning experiences from safe distances. Erika P. advises: "If you're lucky you might even spot some gators!" while recommending Pahokee Beach RV Resort.
Large rig navigation: Some campgrounds have tight roadways requiring careful maneuvering. A reviewer at Torry Island Campground cautions: "Very tight roadways. No turn around at end of roadway so plan accordingly. Most larger trailer had the front of their trailer on the roadway edge."
Power reliability concerns: Electrical outages can occur at some locations. At Lovie's RV and Trailer Park, consistent power is available, with James M. noting: "The campers have plenty of space apart from one another. The rates are affordable. Very nice neighbors."
Pet friendly camping near Lake Okeechobee: While most campgrounds welcome pets, breed restrictions exist at some facilities. Cat A. warns: "I tried to get a reservation with this park and was told my dog would not be allowed because of his breed. The receptionist claimed a Pittbull had bitten a person. You are not welcome if you have a Pitt or a mixed Pitt."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Lake Okeechobee?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Lake Okeechobee is KOA Campground Okeechobee with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Lake Okeechobee?
TheDyrt.com has all 106 dog-friendly camping locations near Lake Okeechobee, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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