Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Mims, FL

Manatee Hammock Campground sits right on the Indian River Lagoon across from Kennedy Space Center, providing direct water access at 28.5 degrees latitude. The campground contains 26 acres with partial shade across most sites. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F while summer months see consistent 80-90°F days with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September.

What to do

Watch rocket launches: The eastern shore position at Manatee Hammock Campground offers direct views across the water. "We saw two rocket launches while here. Make sure you visit Port Canaveral and eat at the many excellent restaurants," notes Dave D.

Fishing opportunities: Cast a line from the waterfront pier for local catches. "The dock is also the perfect place to catch some redfish or snook," reports Wendy W., who visited Manatee Hammock. Some campers report seeing dolphins and manatees while fishing from the pier.

Kayaking: Launch directly from the campground's ramp for paddling on the Indian River. "There's a kayak launch ramp as well. The water views are beautiful at sunrise," writes L O., who stayed at Manatee Hammock. The calm lagoon waters make this suitable for beginners.

What campers like

Water views: Sites facing the Indian River provide scenic vistas. "Beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170," Jorge F. explains about Manatee Hammock Campground. Morning sunrises over the water earn frequent mentions in reviews.

Wildlife viewing: The waterfront location attracts diverse Florida wildlife. At Indian Mound Fish Camp, "You can spend an afternoon on the deck with a beverage. There will likely be some folks fishing, and there's a good chance you'll see Dolphin, and maybe Manatee," writes Mark S.

Dog amenities: Multiple campgrounds cater to pets with dedicated facilities. "It is so nice, right on the Indian river. There is a large fenced Dog Park on the riverfront," Dennis J. shares about Manatee Hammock. The dog park provides space for pets to exercise off-leash.

What you should know

Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. "Downside is freight train noise every night in the early morning hours and traffic noise, specially with campsites near the busy US-1," Jorge F. cautions about Manatee Hammock Campground.

Fire restrictions: Check specific fire rules before arrival. At Manatee Hammock, "no fires unless you bring your own fire pit and must be at least 6" off the ground," notes Jorge F. Some campgrounds rent fire rings for an additional fee.

Varied site quality: Site conditions can differ substantially within the same campground. At Cape Kennedy RV Resort, "This campground has a split personality. The west side has nice wide concrete sites, the east side is on dirt and gravel and not so nice," reports Mark S.

Tips for camping with families

Pool availability: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during hot months. At Cape Kennedy RV Resort, "There's a pool and playground," notes Daniel G. The community pools provide relief from Florida's summer heat.

Playground access: Kid-friendly facilities vary by location. "Clean, there's a pool and playground," Tonya B. confirms about Cape Kennedy RV Resort, making it suitable for families with younger children.

Budget planning: Rates can vary substantially between facilities and seasons. At East Camp — Little Big Econ State Forest, primitive camping provides a low-cost alternative, though Hannah S. cautions: "There are lots of little waterways so mosquitoes do get bad on extra humid days."

Tips from RVers

Site selection importance: Concrete pads offer advantages in Florida's climate. At Seasons In The Sun RV Resort, "The spots in the upgraded area are paved and nice and the key code gate makes the resort feel really safe and secure," Kimberly L. shares, highlighting security features.

Heat management: Shade availability significantly impacts comfort. "When they say 'in the sun', they mean it! Not much shade anywhere. But, if you stay in your 50 ft. Class A I suppose shade isn't needed," Joel R. warns about Seasons In The Sun RV Resort.

Road navigation: Internal campground layouts may present challenges for larger rigs. At Indian Mound Fish Camp, Ariel F. advises: "We are in a 33 ft tow behind travel trailer and we have plenty of length to our spot, but it was a tight squeeze to park in between a palm tree and the site line stake. There are plenty of bigger rigs in here, but I'd suggest preparing yourself for multi point turns to navigate the park."