Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Penney Farms, FL

Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground near Penney Farms accommodates pets at tent sites, RV spots, and cabins. Campers with dogs find the walkable park trails ideal for morning exercise, with most visitors noting minimal encounters with other pets during weekday stays. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park also welcomes pets throughout its tent, RV, cabin, and glamping facilities, offering water access and maintained grounds suitable for dog walking. Camp Chowenwaw Park's treehouse camping accommodates pets with screened structures elevated off the ground, providing a unique overnight experience for families with dogs. State parks in the area maintain standard leash requirements, typically six feet or less, and most limit pets to designated camping areas away from swimming facilities. Campground data and reviews near Penney Farms, Florida is regularly updated on The Dyrt.

Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground offers semi-private, primitive sites with enough brush separation to keep pets from interacting with neighboring campers. The 16 sites each feature tent pads, in-ground grills, and picnic tables suitable for camping with dogs. Black Creek Ravine provides pet-friendly hike-in camping with river access, though owners should pack all pet supplies as the site has no amenities beyond a fire ring and tables. Camp Blanding RV Park permits pets in sites positioned approximately 10 feet from the water, allowing dogs easy lake access without disturbing other campers. Families camping with dogs appreciate the paved roads that allow for easy walking, while the proximity to water provides cooling options during Florida's warmer months. Starke-Gainesville NE KOA offers convenient pet accommodations for both overnight and extended stays, maintaining dedicated pet areas within their 135-site facility.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Penney Farms, Florida (152)

    1. Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins

    32 Reviews
    Keystone Heights, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 473-4701

    $20 - $100 / night

    "There are two loops for campers, both very nice - one is near the lakes but not directly accessing the water (you’ll get more RVs in that area) and the tent camping loop backs up against the woods."

    "Located in the in the rolling sandhills of north central Florida, Mike Roess SP is one of the oldest in the sunshine state’s amazing collection of well-maintained state parks, built back in the 1930’s"

    2. Camp Chowenwaw Park

    9 Reviews
    Fleming Island, FL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 529-8058

    "as well as a nature center and access to a handful of really good, yet basic hiking trails.  Insider’s tip?"

    "Florida has many many different camping options.  I was looking for something unique and different from what I'd done before and this place popped up on my radar. "

    3. Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground

    12 Reviews
    Middleburg, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 406-6390

    $9 / night

    "Nice, quiet campground on the outskirts of Jacksonville. Had a nice time out there with my buddy and the pup. Would recommend!"

    "This little campground is tucked away in Jennings forest. Everything is so peaceful back here!"

    4. Anastasia State Park Campground

    119 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 461-2033

    $28 / night

    "I am a huge fan of Florida State Parks. Anastasia has good size sites that are very private. We could not see our side neighborhoods only the ones across from us."

    "Very private camp sites, water and electric hook ups, walk to the beach, quiet and friendly and not a thing to complain about."

    5. Camp Blanding RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Starke, FL
    11 miles
    +1 (904) 682-3104

    "The children loved the close proximity of the lake. We were approximately 10 feet away from the water. The area had two sets of swings nearby and a dock."

    "Beautiful lake"

    6. Black Creek Ravine

    2 Reviews
    Middleburg, FL
    7 miles
    Website

    "Overall, met my intent as a basic campsite my family of 5 with kids from 3 to 9 years old could walk into and get the simple outdoor experience."

    7. Starke-Gainesville NE KOA

    14 Reviews
    Starke, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 964-8484

    $34 - $58 / night

    "Great playground and dog park."

    "Dog park was up in front by office so long walk when hot. Laundry was reasonable $1.25. Office staff were friendly. Starke is very small and not much to do. Sonny’s BBQ is good!!"

    8. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

    97 Reviews
    Atlantic Beach, FL
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 255-6767

    $12 - $30 / night

    "Very close to the beach for total serenity. Pets are allowed. Lots of mountain biking in the park, which is a popular place for people to go to in Jacksonville."

    "This park as everything you need from kayaking canoeing to a beautiful beach and bike/hiking trails! You can bring your whole family including your pets."

    9. North Beach Camp Resort

    47 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 824-1806

    $67 - $245 / night

    "Pets are allowed but with breed restrictions. They are allowed in all areas of the campground except the store, bathrooms, and pool."

    "Very shady spots and plenty of space for long walks on the paths, along the river or across the street at the beach. I had 2 dogs & appreciated the doggy stations with poo bags and garbage."

    10. Valhalla Estate Farm

    1 Review
    Middleburg, FL
    10 miles
    +1 (904) 294-4409

    $30 - $75 / night

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Penney Farms, FL

1087 Reviews of 152 Penney Farms Campgrounds


  • Ashley W.
    Jun. 12, 2022

    Compass RV Park

    Compass RV Park Spring Break 2021

    We stayed here during Spring Break as it was the only thing available in Saint Augustine when we booked. However, we really enjoyed the park. It was close to the beaches and all major attractions. The pool was nice and there was a basket ball court, corn hole and table tennis as well as a small playground. Since we booked late we were in what was considered a buddy site which was a little different since we had a neighbor facing our site who we didn’t know but still we had a great time and my kids made several new friends. The bathrooms were clean and there was a laundry area with a separate laundry for washing pet bedding. The park was almost separated into 2 sections with the sites in the back having mixed paved pads while the ones in the front were gravel. There were several trails through the campground and there was an off leash dog park as well. All in all we really enjoyed our visit and would definitely return in the future.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort

    Oceanfront, White Sand Beaches & Palm Laced RV Oasis

    Ever fantasized about parking your RV so near the ocean that you could feel the salt spray coming off those Atlantic ‘white caps’? Well, look no further than Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort, which depending upon the specific RV slot you are fortunate enough to book here, you too could be kicking back and living life in the 'slow lane’ right in front of idyllic white sand beaches against a backdrop of an endless aquatic blue horizon. Located just 8 miles / 20 minutes south of St. Augustine (a.k.a. Ancient City), Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort resides on the famous A1A, but down in this neck of the woods, you will find that you have escaped the whir of traffic, busyness of everyday life and won’t have to put up with the touristy side of this northernmost Floridian outpost.

    As for this location itself, Bryn Mawr boasts the largest family pool in the county (which I cannot independently verify here), although there are actually 2 swimming pools, along with a spa and private walkways with beach access to some of the finest ocean views along the eastern seaboard. Boasting some 236 RV slots, Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort is a massive RV oceanfront wonderland, hidden in the shades of the palms, wherein you’ll enter the compound through a very well appointed security gate after first being greeted by the good folks at the main office building. Once inside, you’ll swerve a bit around the bend to the right before heading straight, wherein on both sides of this RV ‘main street’ you’ll intersect four different perpendicular lanes (Sea Bird, followed by Sea Coast, then Sea Dog and finally Sea Eagle) before reaching a T intersection (at Sea Eagle) where you’ll have to either turn left or right in order to access the 9 (yes, count ‘em, 9) vertical RV slotted lanes (and unfortunately, yes, all of them also begin with the word ‘Sea’, making it very difficult to remember which ‘Sea’ lane you are in) that from north to south are called: Sea Fan, Sea Gull, Sea Horse, Sea Jetty, Sea Anchor, Sea King, Sea Ladder, Sea Millie and Sea Nettle. 

    Nomenclature aside, it all doesn’t really matter if you are looking for simply the best, which are the oceanfront RV slots (that run parallel to the beach along Sea Otter lane), whose numbered sites are #219– 238. Trust me, whatever the premium is to pay and park in one of these 20 RV slots is ABSOLUTELY worth it, given the proximity to the beach, as well as the additional distance from traffic that you’ll have back here in the furthest reaches of Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort.  Oh, and then there's the priceless oceanfront views you'll have - but to be clear, that really only works out if your particular RV has a rear-facing panoramic view, otherwise, you'll have to get outside your vehicle and post a few picnic chairs to enjoy the view.

    Amenities: dog park / pet walking area, basketball court, lighted tennis / pickle-ball courts, shuffleboard, complimentary WiFi and cable, main office with marketplace store, spartan showers & restroom facilities (there are multiple units spread throughout the RV campus), laundr-O-mat, activity center, horseshoe pitch, propane refill station and children’s playground. Of course, all RV sites come with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric along with water and sewage) and concrete pads. There’s also scattered picnic tables, BBQ grills and fire rings.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While I’ve already HIGHLY recommended the oceanfront slots of #219– 238, I would also recommend the following locations (if being near the ocean is important to you): 82, 96, 110, 123, 135, 249, 143, 154, 167, 168, 250, 181, 195, 209 and 218; (2) This place is one of the most pet-friendly RV outposts I’ve come across, so don’t be shy about bringing all your pets – I couldn’t find a single RV’er who didn’t have at least 1 dog, if not an entire entourage of cats, iguanas, fish and even an alpaca en towe!; (3) While next to the ocean is great, you will feel a substantial lack of privacy with the spaces being quite close to one another, so if that bothers you (and let’s be honest, it should), then when booking, ask for what available spots there are to determine which of those offer up the most amount of either space or privacy; (4) When you get tired of trying to figure out what that next meal is going to be when staring down at your mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler, then check out some local haunts, like Salt Water Cowboy (where anything from the Land, Sea and Swamp section like fried Alligator is pretty amazing), World Famous Oasis Restaurant or Connolly’s Shore Grill for fresh caught seafood; (5) If you are looking for a decent place to do some great hiking, then look no further than due southwest of Bryn Mawr where you can check out Matanzas State Park, that has miles and miles of unspoiled hiking trails with virtually the entire place to yourself (save the deer and gators that you might come across); and (6) Carrying watercraft and looking for a nice spot to hit the water? Then I HIGHLY recommend Princess Place Preserve AND Faver-Dyke SP that offers access to the Matanzas and Tolomato Rivers as well as Pellicer Creek.

    Happy Camping!

  • G
    Jul. 16, 2020

    Island Oaks RV Resort

    Florida's newest RV Resort coming Spring 2021

    Everything we could hope for; private sites, extra large super-sites, pull-through, back-in, fishing lake, swimming lake, swimming pool, sports courts, dog park, pub and poolside cafe and restaurant, miles of walking trails and conservation area. We are happy campers, can't wait for spring.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 25, 2021

    Compass RV Park

    Exceeded Expectations

    Compass RV Resort was easy to get to. We followed the campground instructions versus our GPS. Check in was a breeze as they came out to our rig and gave us a good rundown on the CG then escorted us to site 126 in the newer Oasis area. This site had FHUs that were smartly placed midway down along the stone paver pad. Back-in was a breeze. We were glad we paid the fee to reserve a specific site as this site was probably one of the very best and most spacious in the CG. Our site had more front area lawn plus bushes that separated us from the next site. We also had to pay$3 per night for our 2 pups. The pull through sites were quite close to each other where the back in sites provided more room, this was especially true near the front of the CG. This was a large CG that was fairly full throughout our 6 nights stay but surprisingly quiet. You could hear some road noise but it was not too bad. We were in the far back of the CG but if you were more towards the office/entry you would have a lot more road noise. Their cable worked well plus there were multiple OTA channels. Some people had their satellite dishes out too. Most sites in the Oasis area would support satellite, as well as the pull through sites near the middle of the park. The older sites near the entrance had many more trees. We were surprised that we only got 2 bars on Verizon. The CG WiFi worked OK and we had a repeater next to our site. You could upgrade to faster CG internet for a fee, but we did not use this service. The CG has ice, firewood, and propane for sale. There was a small fenced dog park next to the shower, laundry and exercise facility in the Oasis section. Near the entrance there was a larger fenced dog park(about an acre) with a smaller fenced area within the dog park. St. Augustine’s historic, shopping, and restaurant area is stupid busy Friday- Sunday. Parking is limited in general and tougher for a dually. Best time to visit is during the week.

  • Clayton D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 8, 2022

    Grand Lake

    Another great experience!

    We wereet at the entrance by a gentleman in a golf cart. He brought us directly to our site, and helped us get squared away. He recommended the local restaurant for dinner. Not a lot of options, but all the options were good!

    Great dog park, 2 separate zones!!!

    This is a golf/ lake community that is like the old TV shows. People walking dogs, riding golf carts, and meeting at the club house. We will return when we have more time to stay!

  • J
    Sep. 24, 2018

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Secluded Camping

    I am a huge fan of Florida State Parks. Anastasia has good size sites that are very private. We could not see our side neighborhoods only the ones across from us. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were large. There was always staff around keeping the grounds picked up and tidy. The camp ground is very pet friendly, but dogs are not allowed on the beach in the park. There are many pet friendly beaches nearby. There is no camping near the ocean, but it is just a short bike ride/drive from the campsites to the beach. Water and electric hook up at the sites, a large trash compactor is located near the the 3 lane dump station.

    Great camp ground, but make sure you reserve far in advance, they book up quick.

  • James P.
    Oct. 21, 2024

    Starke-Gainesville NE KOA

    Better than average KOA

    Large sites. Very nice pool. First rate laundry facilities. Great playground and dog park.

  • F
    Apr. 1, 2021

    Stagecoach RV Park

    Nice area

    This RV park is in a great location near the outlet malls. All sites were pull through gravel full hook ups. For as crowded as the place was it was very quiet. There is a dog park and a basketball court.

  • Mimi B.
    Oct. 30, 2021

    Pelican Roost RV Park

    Nice Military CG

    Really enjoyed our 10 day stay. Concrete pad was level making set up quick and easy. Great water pressure. Free washers and dryers. Beach is a short walk and is beautiful. Our dogs enjoyed the fenced dog park. Loved watching the ships come in and out. Everyone we met were so friendly. Would definitely stay again.


Guide to Penney Farms

Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park provides year-round camping options within a ravine ecosystem that formed when sand dissolved into the underground limestone. The campground maintains 16 sites at the Hammock Campground area with elevation changes that vary across the terrain. Rain typically drains quickly due to the sandy soil conditions common throughout sites in north central Florida.

What to do

Hiking through ravines: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park offers several trails that showcase the unique ravine system. "Very nice hikes and birding abound! Amazing sunrises with the birds at the lakes. It's quiet, and the sites are relatively private," reports Clean Slate D.

Kayaking access points: Black Creek Ravine provides river access for paddlers approximately 30 feet through trees. "My family hiked about 2.4 mi in to this campsite and stayed one night. We liked that you have to hike in, there is no car access. It is about 30 feet through some trees to the river," notes Nate D.

Mountain biking trails: The extensive trail network in the area includes maintained paths with varied terrain. "23k acre park, some 30 miles of trails, most well marked, with fording places for canoe/kayak on two different creeks. Horseback trails, an not a lot of people," writes Wayne C. about Jennings State Forest.

What campers like

Private sites with natural barriers: Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground provides separation between camping areas. "The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site," Amber R. explains about the campground layout.

Quick access to water: Campers appreciate sites positioned near lakes and rivers. "Our site was right on the lake so the kids had a great time playing in the water for something to to. We could hang our hammocks and the paved roads allowed for the kids to ride their bikes," mentions Jenn B. about Camp Blanding RV Park.

Multiple accommodation options: Several parks offer a range of structures beyond tent sites. "The treehouses were so fun to stay in and being higher up gave us chances of a breeze. There was a very large lighted screened kitchen pavilion with fireplace, stove, fridge, sinks and covered outdoor grill," says Jeanene A. about Camp Chowenwaw Park.

What you should know

Pet policies differ significantly: Dog friendly campgrounds near Penney Farms typically maintain specific guidelines. "Pets are allowed in all areas of the campground except the store, bathrooms, and pool," explains Erika P. about North Beach Camp Resort.

Seasonal weather considerations: Summer heat affects camping comfort levels. "Though there was a threat of rain all weekend we stayed high and dry in the tree houses. Many in our group brought battery operated fans," notes Jeanene A. about the tree houses at Camp Chowenwaw Park.

Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advanced booking, but timing varies. "The office is closed form 12-1 so no chance of checking in early. This was an old girl scout camp and now id open to the public," mentions Jeanene A. about the Camp Chowenwaw procedures.

Tips for camping with families

Pool requirements: Camp Chowenwaw Park has specific swimming rules. "They are very strict at the pool. The children had to do swim tests and wear a necklace denoting which portion of the pool they could be in," notes Jenn B. about the facility protocols.

Child-friendly trails: Several areas offer hiking suitable for younger campers. "We hiked the beach pioneer trail and really enjoyed ourselves. The campsite is about a mile in and has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a stream nearby for water," Sean B. describes about Jennings State Forest.

Unique sleeping arrangements: Elevated structures appeal to families with children. "Love this park and the tree house 'cabins'. Great place to stay with the kids," Chad P. shares about the distinctive accommodations at Camp Chowenwaw Park.

Tips from RVers

Site layout variations: Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park has distinctive site configurations. "The sites are also very narrow or oddly shaped. This really ruined it for us to be honest. You would walk out the front door and had to squeeze between a tree and the trailer to get to the rest of the campsite," Elizabeth E. warns about the spatial limitations.

Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly across pet-friendly campgrounds near Penney Farms. "Almost no internet coverage due to the canopy cover," Elizabeth E. mentions about Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, while Gosia D. notes about North Beach Camp Resort, "There is no reliable WiFi (even in the office) nor phone reception despite that's how it's advertised."

Campground navigation: Some parks have confusing layouts for first-time visitors. "When you come in, they give you your site number and a convoluted map no direction at all. Finding your way out is a challenge. I saw 1 exit sign after driving in seemingly circles for 20 minutes," shares Darren F. about his experience at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Penney Farms, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Penney Farms, FL is Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins with a 4.5-star rating from 32 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Penney Farms, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 152 dog-friendly camping locations near Penney Farms, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.