Dog-Friendly Camping near Lake Wales, FL

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    Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground welcomes pets across its shaded sites, providing natural surroundings for dogs to explore alongside their owners. The park maintains clean facilities with designated pet walking areas throughout the grounds. Cypress Campground & RV Park, Oak Hammock Resort, and Lake Rosalie Campground similarly accommodate pets with full hookup options for RVers traveling with animals. Most parks require pets to remain leashed when outside vehicles or camping units. Sites at these campgrounds feature picnic tables where campers and their pets can relax together, with grassy areas between spaces providing room for short walks. The bathrooms in several parks remain consistently clean according to visitor reports, an important consideration for longer stays with pets.

    Hiking trails at Lake Kissimmee State Park provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, though owners should watch for wildlife including alligators near water areas. Several campgrounds position themselves within short drives to pet supply stores, with Cypress Campground & RV Park situated adjacent to a Walmart for convenient access to pet food and supplies. Summer heat considerations require extra water provisions and shade access for pets camping in the Florida climate. Oak Hammock Resort offers waterfront sites where pets can cool off safely in designated areas. Frostproof's Rainbow RV Resort provides a quieter setting for pets sensitive to noise, with reviews noting the peaceful environment conducive to morning and evening dog walks. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound at these parks, though pets should remain secured to avoid disturbing local animals.

    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Lake Wales (185)

      1. Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground

      4.5(31)15mi from Lake Wales54 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "I live within a hours drive from this park and have been camping here for 40 plus years. This State Park is Old Florida, sites are secluded from the other sites compared to many other parks."

      "The path is very clear with markers and when you arrive at the site, there is a clear indicator to follow. The path to the site is right off the main trail."

      from $20 / night

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      2. Cypress Campground & RV Park

      3.9(7)5mi from Lake Wales1 siteRVs, Tents

      "We came to Florida to escape NY in 2020, chose from a map! While here, we made good friends with other snowbirds and travelers. There is a nice pool, small playground and 2 laundry facilities."

      "First we had a late arrival, and they had left us all the documents ready for us by the entrance."

      3. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

      4.5(22)18mi from Lake Wales9 sitesRVs, Cabins

      "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."

      from $68 - $302 / night

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      4. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

      4.6(130)34mi from Lake WalesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

      from $56 - $201 / night

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      5. Oak Hammock Resort

      4.5(2)6mi from Lake WalesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Pond in addition to lake. Bountiful with wildlife. Full hookups, laundry, game room, outdoor ping pong, trails, lakeside dock, fishing dock on pond and wifi."

      from $85 / night

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      6. Resort at Canopy Oaks

      4.5(12)19mi from Lake Wales9 sitesRVs, Cabins

      "Plenty to do at the park from fishing, hitting golf balls, relaxing in the pool, feeding the goats, hanging out at the tiki bar, or watching the dogs run in the two dog parks."

      "If you are terrified of bugs this may not be the place for you (FYI), it is in the middle of Florida and in summer the bugs love to come out."

      from $35 - $999 / night

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      7. Highlands Hammock State Park Campground

      4.2(49)31mi from Lake Wales139 sitesTents

      "There is a picnic table and fire ring at each site and there is a toilet nearby. For showers you have to drive to the regular campground and use theirs. You can purchase firewood in the park as well."

      "There are many short loop trails that take you through many ecosystems, giant trees at sizes few have seen before, lots of wildlife to."

      from $18 - $22 / night

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      8. Cypress Garden MH and RV Park

      3.0(2)7mi from Lake WalesRVs

      "Right beside a Walmart and very close to Legoland."

      9. Orlando/Kissimmee KOA

      4.4(30)29mi from Lake WalesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Right off 192 and close access to the Florida Turnpike, the park is conveniently located next to a Big Box store & gas station, Wendy’s and Waffle House."

      "Most shopping and restaurants are within a 5-10 minute drive."

      from $45 / night

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      10. Lake Rosalie Campground

      4.0(2)12mi from Lake WalesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "We stayed at this location for 13 days. The bathroom was clean, there was a fire ban in place, but we had portable grills so utilized those."

      from $10 - $20 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Lake Wales, FL

    968 Reviews of 185 Lake Wales Campgrounds


    • Connie B.
      May. 17, 2018

      Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

      Lots of activities

      Pricey 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.

    • Andoni G.
      Apr. 6, 2021

      Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

      Stay at River Ranch RV Resort Next Door Instead

      This review relates to River Ranch RV Resort, which is next to the Westgate property. I would personally not stay at the Westgate RV since it is basically just an open field with RV spots. 

      River Ranch RV next door is a beautiful place with fantastic spots. We stayed in spot 323 which had its own swing and fireplace. Our 37 ft rig fit perfectly and five year old loved riding bike around the park. Everyone was super friendly and I recommend renting a golf cart, though expensive at $60 a day, 

      Be aware of telephone phone reception. At our spot we could not get any reception with ATT. After buying a Verizon hotspot down the road in Lake Wales, we were able to WFH.a

      Would highly recommend this spot in Central Florida.

    • B
      Feb. 3, 2021

      Thousand Trails Orlando

      Huge park

      This 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).

    • Zackary C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 6, 2025

      Lithia Springs

      Lithia Springs Park

      Lithia 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!

    • Malaney H.
      Apr. 3, 2018

      Hillsborough River State Park Campground

      There is a lot to do!

      This 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!

    • Josh W.
      Feb. 10, 2020

      Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

      Can we live here forever?

      Loved 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.

    • T S.
      Mar. 7, 2022

      Lazydays RV Resort

      Very nice campground

      This 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.

    • Steven A.
      Nov. 28, 2023

      Lake Josephine RV Resort

      Top Notch Accommodations

      This place has everything you would need to enjoy your trip. Showers, laundry, dog park, game room etc. Nice fishing lake at the site.

    • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 8, 2017

      Edward Medard Park

      Gem of the County

      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. Full service for RV's (even a dump station. Clean, monitored bathroom facilities close to lots of additional activities! Kayaking and fishing on the lake is a blast! Frisbee Golf (this is an advanced course) equestrian and hiking trails, picnic and playground areas. Pet friendly but there were more than a few stray cats when we were there (a problem the rangers are trying to address). Midweek is best time to visit as weekends fill fast (usually by Thursday night)


    Guide to Lake Wales

    Lake Wales, Florida offers diverse camping options within the subtropical central Florida climate zone, typically experiencing warm, humid summers and mild winters with average high temperatures of 80-95°F from May through October. The region sits at a modest elevation of 150-200 feet above sea level, higher than many parts of Florida, creating a landscape of rolling hills and numerous lakes that provide habitats for diverse wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.

    What to do

    Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground, campers can spot abundant wildlife throughout the year. "Animals are abundant - wild turkeys, eagles, bobcats, AND the Florida Panther! While sitting in our screen gazebo, I was awed by the passing of a male panther about 25 yards from our campsite. Wild turkeys visited us daily," shares Barbara J.

    Hiking trails: The park offers numerous trails for all skill levels with plenty of shade. "Lots of small trails to explore and tall watch tower climb for observation," notes Stephanie G. from Lake Kissimmee State Park. These trails wind through native Florida habitats and provide excellent bird watching opportunities.

    Water activities: Lake Rosalie Campground provides access to fishing and boating. "We fished off the dock, which was a lot of fun," says April F. The campground's location on the lake makes it ideal for anglers and water enthusiasts who want easy shore access without needing their own watercraft.

    What campers like

    Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between camping spaces. "Campsites are far enough apart for privacy with lots of shades trees. Each site has a firepit," reports Stephanie G. about Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground.

    Clean facilities: Oak Hammock Resort maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Clean well kept park. Beautiful landscape mixed with outdoor activities. Pond in addition to lake. Full hookups, laundry, game room, outdoor ping pong, trails, lakeside dock, fishing dock on pond and wifi," describes John R.

    Year-round availability: The subtropical climate makes most campgrounds accessible throughout the year. "We stayed middle of July for 4 days. Only saw 3 other campers the whole time. Park is super quiet and there is a ton of wildlife roaming," reports Corey K. from Lake Kissimmee State Park, highlighting the benefit of off-season camping to avoid crowds.

    What you should know

    Cell service limitations: Some parks have limited connectivity. "Cell service is practically non existent in the park and within 10 miles from the park. Keep an eye on gas, there's one place about 6 miles from the park and town is about 15 miles away," warns Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park.

    Bathroom quality varies: Facilities range from basic to well-maintained. "Bath house is very clean and at night the lights are on timers," notes Corey K. about Lake Kissimmee State Park, while other campgrounds might offer more rustic facilities.

    Seasonal considerations: Rainbow RV Resort caters primarily to older seasonal visitors. "This is a 55 and older resort so we didn't see any kids around. Frostproof is a small town so shopping is a bit of a ways off," explains Deborah. This creates a quieter environment ideal for visitors seeking a tranquil setting.

    Tips for camping with families

    Educational opportunities: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers family-friendly activities beyond the parks. "We really love camping here. The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. There is bus service throughout the campground with bus and boat service to the Parks," shares Darcy S.

    Pool activities: During hot months, pools provide essential relief for families. "We had a BLAST at this camping retreat 3 miles from Legoland! The pool was just what we needed, the put-put was a fun activity," says Rachel C. about Cypress Campground & RV Park.

    Special events: Seasonal activities create memorable experiences. "The first year we went to this campground back in 2021. It was our first experience at being a snowbird and we had a great time," reports a Cypress Campground visitor, highlighting the winter season events that make for a family-friendly atmosphere.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection matters: When booking an RV site, consider specific site features and layout. "We stayed in site 19 for one night in early February. This site was very large, mostly level, with beautiful trees surrounding the site and great privacy," notes Denise about Lake Kissimmee State Park. "Two things to watch out for - be careful of low hanging tree branches when backing in."

    Seasonal pricing benefits: Summer visitors can find better rates at upscale resorts. "Awesome summer prices that are super competitive for everything you're getting!" notes Bobby M. about Resort at Canopy Oaks, making this pet-friendly camping near Lake Wales, Florida more affordable during traditional off-season months.

    Full hookup availability: Many RV parks offer complete utilities. "The sites are very spacious! Plenty of things to do. Pizza restaurant, ice cream shop, coffee shop, store for some essentials, salon, spa, pool table, ping pong table, pickle ball, basketball, shuffleboard, tiki bar, pool and spa with waterfall," says Lorilee S. about Resort at Canopy Oaks, highlighting amenities that complement the pet-friendly camping environment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Lake Wales, FL is Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 31 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 185 dog-friendly camping locations near Lake Wales, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.