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Serenova Tract Campsites offers free pet-friendly camping near Port Richey with spacious, secluded sites. The primitive campground features fire rings and picnic tables at each site, with a locked gate requiring a reservation code for entry. Dogs must remain leashed throughout the property while exploring the extensive trail system. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Port Richey, Florida. Oak Springs RV Resort, Hickory Point RV Park, and Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA also welcome pets, with Hickory Point providing waterfront sites on the Anclote River. Most campsites in the area accommodate tents, RVs, and some offer pet-friendly cabins with varying amenities from basic to full hookups.
The extensive trail network at Serenova Tract provides excellent dog walking opportunities with approximately 20 miles of paths through oak-shaded terrain. No potable water is available at the primitive sites, so campers must bring their own supplies for themselves and their pets. Convenience stores and a Publix supermarket sit directly across from Serenova Tract's entrance for easy access to pet supplies and food. For campers seeking more amenities, Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA offers pet-friendly accommodations with full hookups, while Hickory Point RV Park features a dog-friendly area with sunset views over the water. The campground atmospheres remain peaceful and quiet, though some campers note that Oak Springs management can be challenging to work with regarding pets. Most campsites require advance reservations, especially during winter months when snowbirds fill many Port Richey area campgrounds.
"It is pet friendly and everyone seems to clean up after their pets. The pool is clean and clear and that works for me."
"The beach is a 5 minute drive and pet friendly! The Pinellas bike trail is also located right behind the park and easy to get on. I will definitely come back to this campground."
from $45 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Starkey wilderness park and can be accessed off of Route 52 in Land O' Lakes, Fl."
"You do have to apply for a permit to camp here through the SW Florida water management site. The campground is gated so you need a code to get in, which is a nice safety feature."
"It’s Florida so it’s a tight fit in every spot. The staff we’ve met so far have been very friendly and helpful. It’s close to a lot of fun places to go and great beaches to see."
"They have beach chairs near the water and a fire pit that they lit every evening near sunset. In addition to the Bark Park area, there is a nice wooded area where you can walk your dog as well. "
"The dog park was adequate and my dog enjoyed it. I probably wouldn't stay here again just cause of the price and road noise. We camped at Clearwater/ Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday in a Fifth Wheel."
from $45 - $120 / night
Check Availability"Florida has a homeless population - that's sad, but if you want them to hide because they ruin your illusion that everyone lives your privileged life - you're the problem."
"If you like to hike, there are a bunch of different trails to walk and they run alongside the river."
"Better if not during rainy season here in Florida. The ground was wet. Some sites had overflow from the river, I guess? Our site was nice. We had water and electricity. Pretty quiet. Lots of dogs."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"We visited local state parks (not many nearby) and enjoyed the area on the gulf side of 19. It felt relatively safe and there was no gate to contend with."
"Located on the Mud River but don't let the name fool you. This is a spring fed tidal tributary which means almost crystal clear, dolphins. manatees, aquatic birds and fish galore."
"Our site(cant remember which number) was right next to the hill which I defientally reccomend because the hill and field allow you to spread out more."
from $35 - $175 / night
Check Availability"Be advised that there is only one section thst allows pets and limited areas that pets are allowed but has a nice dog beach and off leash dog park."
"It’s not a National Park surrounding a national treasure but it might as well be. The park has three loops. All have waterfront sites and inner loop sites."
from $38 - $48 / night
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ScoutBeautiful park! Clean, quiet, large private spaces, and nice bath facilities. Be advised that there is only one section thst allows pets and limited areas that pets are allowed but has a nice dog beach and off leash dog park.
LegendOne of my favorite places to camp in Florida, hands-down. You can only get to this camping spot by water. Must reserve, no pets & no alcohol.
We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat.
Amazing views.
Campfires not permitted in summer months due to sea turtle nesting.
GuideThis is one of the best parks anywhere. It’s not a National Park surrounding a national treasure but it might as well be. The park has three loops. All have waterfront sites and inner loop sites. One is set up for tents, folding campers and small teardrop style trailers. One is conducive to big rigs but it’s a tight fit and one handles all, but allows pets. There’s lots of wildlife, particularly raccoons. A short drive or bike ride from the campground lands you at the old fort, or a ferry to Egmont Key for the day, or a beach with a view of Tampa Bay and the Skyway bridge, or the amazing north beach which has been listed several times as the best beach in America. It’s a truly gorgeous park. Kayaking, SUP, dog parks, dog beach as well as coyote, rattlesnakes, amazing shore birding, white pelicans, eagles, ospreys, roseates, manatees, dolphins... hard to get reservations but well worth it.
Our return to this park year after year resulted in us building a home in the area for our endless summer adventures.
GuideLithia 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!
GuideSites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog ‘park’ was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities.
LegendThe Hog Island Recreation Area is located on the eastern bank of the Withlacoochee river close to the small town of Nobleton. Part of the recreation area includes the Hog Island Nature Trail, part of the Trailwalker Program and officially certified as part of the longer Florida National Scenic Trail. The Hog Island Campground (fl-dof.com) provides nicely shaded and dry campsites for tent and RV campers with picnic tables and fire rings at each site. These sites are amazingly screened from each other with natural understory vegetation and access to the Withlacoochee River. Restroom with showers (which could use a little love and care), water spigots and a dump station are located nearby. Campers arriving by canoe can stay at a riverside campsite that includes access to drinking water.
This is a good campground with pretty decent warm/hot showers and electric hookups, so you aren't going to really be spending a few days completely off the grid. Although, cellular service is spotty, but mostly usable. The camp hosts were really nice and supposedly no pets are allowed, but I definitely heard some dogs at night. Just a few steps away is the Hog Island boat ramp, nature trail and a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail leaving you with lots to do.
You get your standard nice campground features
· Large shared picnic area
· Good fishing
· Canoe and boat launch
· No pets allowed.
*I heard some dogs and there were basically no one around, so maybe the host let some people get away with it…
· 2-mile loop Nature Trail.
· Hiking trails:
· Equestrian trails:
GuideNice place to stay in Palmetto. I just moved into my RV and this was my very first camping stop so I had TONS of questions and needed quite a bit of help. The staff were super friendly and the neighbors were extremely helpful in showing me how to get everything set up. They have a nice pool and laundry facilities - would recommend coming with a separate vehicle as there's not much within walking distance, but it's only a short drive to Tampa, St. Pete, and the Sarasota/Bradenton area. They also have a nice size, fenced-in dog park with a dog walking path, so bring your furry friends!
GuideThis 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!
LegendIn Palmetto, easy access to Tampa, Sarasota, Gulf Beaches, and many other areas of Florida in a few hours driving distance.
Pet-friendly.
Port Richey camping areas range from primitive backcountry sites to full-service RV resorts within a coastal subtropical climate zone. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-70°F, making it a popular destination for seasonal campers, while summer months bring higher humidity and temperatures in the 80-95°F range. Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round with varying seasonal rates.
Kayaking on spring-fed waters: At Mary's Fish Camp, visitors can rent kayaks to explore the crystal clear Mud River. "The fishing is great. Tent sites are primitive but there is a bath house," notes Amy. The camp offers access to hidden spring runs about 2 miles from Gulf access.
Historic fort exploration: Fort De Soto Campground offers unique historical experiences alongside outdoor recreation. "The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of Birds!" shares Brennan H.
Rapids viewing: One of Florida's few natural rapids can be found within a short drive. "Several short trails to see the only class 2 rapids in Florida. Pretty wild," reports Joe R. about Hillsborough River State Park, with its 20+ miles of natural trails through old Florida landscapes.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the space at Serenova Tract Campsites, where "each site has a picnic table and fire ring." Brett D. notes it offers "Great privacy, peaceful! Very private, great views and the neighboring campers were very respectful!" The primitive camping area maintains natural buffers between sites.
Waterfront access: Waterfront sites rank high on camper preference lists. "We had a waterfront site, great campground. Spendy but worth it. Has boat launch, waterfront community area, volleyball, small beach, dock, etc," writes Elgin S. about Hickory Point RV Park.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention cleanliness. "Office staff is amazing. The upkeep here is like a machine. Daily trash p/u by 10am (don't leave it out over-night, or critters might get it first!)... Undoubtedly the Cleanest showers I've ever seen!" shares Cher C. about Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA.
Reservation requirements: Most Port Richey area campgrounds require advance booking. For Serenova Tract, "You do have to apply for a permit to camp here through the SW Florida water management site. The campground is gated so you need a code to get in, which is a nice safety feature," explains Abby M.
Variable management quality: Campground management can significantly impact your experience. At Oak Springs RV Resort, multiple campers report challenges. "I was relieved to read other reviews both here and on Google about the rude office staff, because I took it personally at first," writes Laura M., though she notes, "other than that horrid experience in the office the rest of the park was great."
Flooding risks: Low elevation means some campsites flood during heavy rains. "Be mindful of going after/during a good rain, it floods pretty easily," warns Brett D. about Serenova Tract. Campsites near water bodies should be selected carefully during Florida's rainy season.
Playground options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Fort De Soto features "a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," notes Joe R.
Nature observation opportunities: Hillsborough River State Park Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing for children. "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy," writes Jason D., though he cautions, "the mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them."
Activity planning: Schedule water activities for mornings when temperatures are cooler. Many campgrounds offer boat and kayak rentals with hourly rates ranging from $15-30 depending on vessel type. Most rental services close by 5pm.
Site selection strategy: For dog friendly campgrounds near Port Richey, consider campground layout carefully. "We were at the front and the road noise was bad. Lots of sirens and traffic. It was noticeably quieter at the back of the campground," advises Tina about Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA.
Electrical connections: Inspect hookups before connecting. "Only bad thing is power connection on boxes they have melted plugs I wouldn't connect to it," warns Carlos O. about Mary's Fish Camp, noting that despite this issue "it's a very good place."
Size constraints: Many older campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Caladesi RV Park, visitors note, "It's a tiny rv park, with small sites, right off a busy road. BUT the bathrooms and laundry are clean, the staff is nice... and location. Location. Location... Clearwater right down the road, best pizza ever nearby."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Port Richey, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Port Richey, FL is Caladesi RV Park with a 4.3-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Port Richey, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 205 dog-friendly camping locations near Port Richey, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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