Pet friendly camping options near North Palm Beach, Florida include several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region features a subtropical climate with warm winters and hot, humid summers, making fall through spring the optimal camping seasons. Most campgrounds enforce leash requirements for dogs, typically 6 feet or shorter, and many provide designated dog exercise areas away from wildlife habitats.
What to do
Boat to exclusive island sites: Peanut Island Campground offers a unique experience accessible only by boat. "This island offers great camping experience! Kayak and puddle board to snorkeling with beautiful fishes and manatee if you are lucky," writes Maimi T. The island provides a secure environment for families with pets who enjoy water activities.
Explore extensive trail systems: At Jonathan Dickinson State Park, hikers and bikers find well-maintained paths suitable for all skill levels. "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We live the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages," notes Edward R. The park's diverse terrain accommodates both casual walkers and serious mountain bikers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Parks throughout the area offer chances to spot native Florida species. Brian M. explains at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, "Took a 3 hour canoe trip, $25 well spent. Next day rented a bike. Good hiking trails too." Maintaining proper pet control is essential when wildlife may be present.
What campers like
Waterfront camping access: St Lucie South provides sites directly on the St. Lucie Canal. "Tent sites are right on the water so it's nice and cool," reports Trina S. Dean adds, "The tent sites all are on the St. Lucie canal and do not have water to the sites although, water is available from the tap just across the street." These waterfront sites allow campers to enjoy breezes and views, though pet owners should note warnings about wildlife.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. At St Lucie South, David R. found "The small Army Corps of Engineers park is very well-maintained. Bathhouse is small, but you can get the job done." Similarly, at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Arnaldo N. observed, "Bathrooms super clean, campsites in perfect conditions."
Convenient location: Many campgrounds offer proximity to urban amenities while maintaining natural surroundings. John Prince Park Campground provides "Easy access to an adjacent golf course and driving range. Bike trails. Walking trails. Wide sites that are very easy to pull through or back into," according to Lynne C. The balance of accessibility and nature appeals to many pet owners.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and insects can impact camping comfort. At Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Brian M. warns, "Forgot my fan and almost eaten alive saved by Off." Another camper noted that lack of shade made summer camping challenging without air conditioning.
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation between sites. Laura M. explains at Jonathan Dickinson, "I looked up this campground on Google Earth to see what it was like here. It looked like a flat area with close sites near a busy highway. Was pleasantly surprised that the scrub around the sites is tall making sites more private that the view from Google."
Wildlife awareness: West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA offers a unique experience next to safari animals. "You can hear the lions roar / huff during the night and morning though," notes Craig O. Burton M. adds, "The Raccoons like to come out in the evening, so make sure you pick up you garbage at night." Pet owners must be vigilant about wildlife interactions.
Tips for camping with families
Book well in advance: Popular family-friendly campgrounds fill quickly. Edward R. advises about Jonathan Dickinson State Park, "Make your reservations early as it books up a year ahead of time." Planning ahead ensures access to preferred sites.
Choose campgrounds with varied activities: Juno Ocean Walk RV Resort provides multiple recreational options. Andrew H. shares, "Loved the park. Clean, friendly and close to the beach, fishing and shopping!" T N T adds, "There is a pool, hot tub, laundry, tennis, bocce, playgrounds, and it's walking distance to the pier, the beach, a large Publix grocery store and drug store, restaurants, and more."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds have unexpected sound sources. JEFFREY W. reports at West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA, "We are used to hearing birds and frogs when we camp, but here it is lions...and other noises I was not able to identify." These distinctive sounds might delight some families but disturb others.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions vary: At John Prince Park Campground, Lynne C. found "Wide sites that are very easy to pull through or back into." Ed C. describes the sites as "Well laid out, grass sites with concrete pads." Understanding site specifications helps match them to your RV requirements.
Extended stay options: Some locations accommodate longer-term camping. Ed C. reports about John Prince Park Campground, "Long term camping at its best. Beautiful site. Lake view. Easy access to launch kayak. Well laid out, grass sites with concrete pads. Staff is excellent. Spent 6 months here with NO problems."
Connectivity considerations: Digital access varies between campgrounds. At St Lucie South, David R. found "2 to 3 bars of Verizon, Sprint, and AT&T (we use all three) ensure a pretty decent cell connection for keeping in touch." T N T mentions Juno Ocean Walk RV Resort has "private (super fast) WIFI" and excellent cell service.
