Primitive campsites dominate the pet friendly camping options near Pierson, Florida. Most campgrounds in this region connect to natural springs, maintaining a year-round water temperature of 72 degrees regardless of season. Sites within the Ocala National Forest offer varying levels of seclusion with differing approaches to site placement and vegetation buffers.
What to do
Swimming in springs: Alexander Springs Recreation Area features a remarkably large swimming area around the spring head. "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too," notes Gabby C., who appreciates the spacious swimming area at Alexander Springs Recreation Area.
Kayaking on natural runs: At Juniper Springs Rec Area, the kayaking presents challenges with strong currents. "I've paddled Rainbow River and that was lovely, super pleasant - in both directions. It's just the current here is so strong and it's a gosh darn obstacle course so there's no relaxing," reports Lisa O. The run includes approximately 110 leaning tree trunks that require navigation.
Fishing opportunities: Freshwater fishing options abound throughout the region's connected waterways. Lake George offers bass fishing access through multiple piers. "Freshwater fishing anywhere along here is just amazing! Lots of wildlife including manatee, shorebirds, bears and more can be seen," shares Jeanene A., who regularly visits with pets.
What campers like
Tree canopy coverage: Most campsites feature significant oak tree coverage, providing natural shade during hot Florida days. "Very nice campground, the oak canopy makes great shade in the heat," shares Nicole D. about Alexander Springs Recreation Area. This natural shade helps keep pets cool during summer months.
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds vary significantly in their site separation. Rusty R. appreciates that "There is plenty of nature to during the day and night" at Alexander Springs, while at Blue Spring State Park Campground, "the individual campsites give off a vibe of privacy, intimacy and solitude" according to Stuart K., who notes "substantial vegetation" creating distance between neighboring sites.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching and wildlife spotting opportunities exist throughout the camping areas. Joshua W. reports an "albino squirrel sighting as an added bonus" during his stay, while others mention diverse wildlife. During winter months (November-February), Blue Spring State Park offers manatee viewing opportunities for campers.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground loops differ significantly in character. At Juniper Springs Rec Area, Lisa O. advises, "I was completely steered wrong listening to a reviewer saying Tropical was the better campsites. They're not bc virtually every one is a pull thru and those are inherently less private. When I biked through the Sand loop I was completely bummed bc they are huge sites with vegetation all around the sites."
Facilities maintenance: Bathroom cleanliness receives mixed reviews across campgrounds. Campers at Clearwater Lake praise "clean facilities with quiet and friendly surroundings," with Enrique T. noting "Fantastic hosts, camp grounds are impeccable, bath houses cleaned."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage at several campgrounds. Kevin D. warns that Clearwater Lake "is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night. The campground does have a bear proof box to store some stuff in at night but make sure to put food in containers and in your car if you can."
Tips for camping with families
Kids-friendly swimming areas: Salt Springs Recreation Area maintains a designated swimming area with consistent 72-degree water temperature year-round. Stuart K. recommends timing: "Like most natural springs, as the day progresses, the spring will get busier and busier, so I always recommend if you are camping at a spring...that you chose to go either early or later in the day."
Fishing for beginners: A stocked catch-and-release pond at Highland Park Fish Camp provides learning opportunities. "There is a free catch and release pond that is kept well stocked and a great place for the kids or beginners to learn how to fish," says Jeanene A., making it ideal for family outings.
Fire restrictions vary: Not all campgrounds permit open fires, which affects s'mores planning. At Blue Spring State Park, fire restrictions limit traditional campfires, while sites at Alexander Springs include fire rings with no usage restrictions during normal conditions.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: At Tomoka State Park Campground, Nelson G. notes specific site issues: "The ground is level and it includes a fire pit and picnic table. Has water hook up and 30 amp power; no sewer on site. There is a dump station nearby…so close we can smell it while sitting outside." Many campgrounds feature paved or concrete pads, but some sites have positioning limitations.
Tree interference: Large trees can restrict RV setups on some sites. Nelson G. mentions "our site (#2) has a large oak tree in the middle that prevents us from opening the awning" at Tomoka State Park, highlighting the need to consider specific site characteristics when booking.
Full hookup availability: Only select campgrounds offer complete RV services. Sue G. reports that at Salt Springs, "Sites have paved pads but most are not level. Wifi very spotty." Sites with full hookups tend to fill quickly and often require advance reservations, especially during winter months.
