Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Waldo, FL

Looking for the best pet-friendly campgrounds near Waldo? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find campgrounds near Waldo that allow pets. Each pet-friendly campsite offers quick access to one or more of Waldo's most popular destinations.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Waldo, FL (158)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    2. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    176 Photos
    241 Saves
    Micanopy, Florida

    PPCG

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    3. Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    38 Reviews
    140 Photos
    213 Saves
    Fort White, Florida

    DOG1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Springs Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Salt Springs Recreation Area

    4. Salt Springs Recreation Area

    55 Reviews
    167 Photos
    585 Saves
    Salt Springs, Florida

    Overview

    Salt Springs Recreation Area is one the recreational jewels of the Ocala National Forest, with a spectacular natural mineral spring that gives the area its name. Plenty of outdoor activities keep campers and day-use visitors busy, including swimming in the springs, fishing, snorkeling, hiking and boating. Salt Springs is located between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha Rivers, 35 miles east of Ocala, Florida. The national forest spans four counties and 383,000 acres. It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River, and protects the world's largest, contiguous sand pine scrub forest.

    Recreation

    The natural springs, nearby Lake George and many surrounding rivers and streams provide ample opportunity for water recreation. Anglers can try a good fishing spot on Salt Springs Run, downstream of the swimming area, boat ramp and marina. Boat rentals are nearby. For those who wish to explore on land, the facility has basketball courts and a horseshoe pit. Hikers have easy access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.

    Natural Features

    The semi-tropical region gives the campground a mixture of pines and palms, with lush greenery and warm temperatures. Within the recreation area, a natural spring rises from cracks deep within the earth. The presence of potassium, magnesium and sodium salts give the waters a slight salinity - hence the name Salt Springs.

    Nearby Attractions

    Salt Springs is very close to Lake George, a great fishing destination.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground

    5. Rodman Campground

    26 Reviews
    91 Photos
    168 Saves
    Welaka, Florida

    A 64-site campground offers 26 primitive tent sites and 38 sites with power and water hookups. A dump station, picnic pavilions and boat ramps are located in the campground.

    The 9,500-acre Rodman Reservoir is perennially rated in the Top 10 Trophy Bass Lakes in Florida by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

    The 67-site Rodman Campground is located approximately 9 miles southwest of Palatka off State Route 19 on Rodman Dam Road.

    The Rodman Reservoir provides a diverse and extensive habitat for not only trophy fish but numerous avian species as well. Many endangered and threatened species of wading birds, waterfowl, bald eagles and others use the reservoir, particularly during the cooler months. There are also numerous alligators, turtles and even manatees that inhabit and travel through the reservoir seasonally.

    The campground and reservoir were originally created during the 1960s-era Cross Florida Barge Canal project. The mammoth public works project was started in 1964 when President Lyndon B. Johnson flew into Palatka and started the project with a ground-breaking explosion at the nearby Rodeheaver’s Boys Ranch.

    Almost 50 years later, the nearby Kirkpatrick Dam still remains intact, impounding the Ocklawaha River and maintaining the reservoir. A political and environmental battle continues since the reservoir was first flooded in November of 1968 of whether to maintain and manage Rodman as it is, or to remove significant portions of the earthen dam and restore the “Free Flowing Ocklawaha River."

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Starke-Gainesville NE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Starke-Gainesville NE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Starke-Gainesville NE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Starke-Gainesville NE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Starke-Gainesville NE KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Starke-Gainesville NE KOA

    6. Starke-Gainesville NE KOA

    12 Reviews
    50 Photos
    22 Saves
    Starke, Florida

    Escape the chill of winter at the family-oriented, sun-drenched Starke KOA in the Gainesville area The campground offers extra-long Pull-Thru RV Sites with concrete patios. Beautiful Supersites with large patios, firepit, and grill. Rustic cabins and Studio cabins. Splash in the pool, shoot hoops, throw horseshoes, or find a quiet spot in the clubhouse to read a book or challenge a friend to a board game. There's even free wireless internet! Fun weekend activities with our family oriented Activities Director. Nearby, Crosby and Sampson lakes offer great boating - and you may even get a gator glimpse. Contact us today!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 - $58 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park

    7. Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park

    17 Reviews
    70 Photos
    113 Saves
    High Springs, Florida

    MAG1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground

    8. Silver Springs State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    258 Photos
    373 Saves
    Ocala, Florida

    Silver Springs State Park’s campground offers Cabins, RV and Tent Sites, and Group Primitive Camp Sites. Located beneath shady oaks and beautiful pine trees, Silver Springs’ vacation cabins accommodate up to six people. Each cabin has a full dining area, two bedrooms, one bath, stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, gas fireplace (October 1 to April 30), central cooling and heating and a large screened porch. Fifty-nine spacious sites in two campground loops easily accommodate even large camping units, with a maximum recreational vehicle length of 50 feet. Tent campers are welcome as well. Each site offers water and electric hook-up, as well as a fire ring, barbecue grill and picnic table. The primitive group camping area, set amid shady oaks, is for organized groups only, with preference given to youth groups. The area includes picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Non-potable water is available and there are no shower facilities. For more information and to make a group reservation for primitive camping, please call the Ranger Station at (352) 236-7148. This number is for primitive group camping reservations only.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $110 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring

    9. Devil's Den Spring

    20 Reviews
    82 Photos
    240 Saves
    Williston, Florida

    We offer 4 cabins available for rental. All are identical in size and layout and sleep up to 4 people. Kitchen includes microwave, mini fridge, and sink. Admission to Devil's Den is separate.

    Must be 21 or older to book AND to stay on the cabin property!!

    We offer a vast R.V Park with 32 sites. Most sites offer 30/50 amp hook-ups, water, and sewer. Reservations are required. Admission to Devil's Den is separate. (Site rental does not include an RV.)

    Gaze at the stars and enjoy all of nature's wonderful sounds as you spend the night in our tent campground. Select sites have electric/water hook-ups. There are porta-potties on site in addition to our two bathroom/shower facilities.

    Campers must be over the age of 18, or with a parent.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park

    10. Camp Blanding RV Park

    5 Reviews
    23 Photos
    72 Saves
    Starke, Florida

    Authorized Users Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, Retired Military, 0-100% DAV, Purple Heart Recipients, Former POW, Veteran Caregivers, DoD Civilians, Sponsored Guests, Public with an approved "Associate Membership" (call office)

    Johnson RV Park accepts reservations, is only for RV's and doesn't have laundry, restrooms or showers. McKenna Campground is first-come only, allows tents, and has showers, restrooms and laundry. 2 tent limit per primitive site. There is a new Wal-mart super center in Starke, Fl. about 15 miles from the Campground. There is a small px with limited food supplies available on post.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 158 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews in Waldo

770 Reviews of 158 Waldo Campgrounds


  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Champions Run RV Resort
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Champions Run RV Resort

    Clean, decent location

    I don’t know if I would necessarily call this place “luxury” but it is clean & quiet. To be fair, it’s maybe only 10% full. The little store has very little merchandise. The pool is very nice. The staff have been nice. There are several doggie poo bag & trash stations. The dog run by site 121 is very small & mostly dead grass and dirt, no shade or water. There is a nice tiki bar & pickle ball. Close to gas, groceries & shopping. Easy in & out. The landscaping is very small so no shade or privacy between sites but the sites are decently spaced. There is a bath house with laundry. Full hookups. Big rig friendly.

  • Jeremy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
    Nov. 28, 2024

    Black Prong Equestrian Village

    Great camping experience with or without a horse!

    My family and I had an incredible experience at black prong. Massive RV pad, full hookups, Golf Cart, plus privacy between you and your neighbor. As an added bonus we were able to bring our horse for trail rides throughout the park. Tons of room and friendly staff. Highly recommend. (Didn’t use the pool or hot tub but they looked nice and well kept)

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Seminole Springs
    Nov. 26, 2024

    Camp Seminole Springs

    Quiet and secluded campground. Excellent for those visiting Ocala national forest.

    Had a great time at Seminole Springs Campground while visiting Ocala National Forest. check in was super easy and the hosts are fantastic. I will be staying here again.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Nov. 15, 2024

    Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground

    Quiet and peaceful

    I stopped here to stay overnight on a Thursday as I was passing through. There was only one camper but did not know that until I left the next morning. It was quiet and felt secluded. The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocala RV Camp Resort
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Ocala RV Camp Resort

    No tent camping allowed

    I called and was told they don’t allow any tent camping. Just an FYI. Was advised only the state parks in the area allow tent camping.

  • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Black Prong Equestrian Village

    Awesome Harvest Host partner!

    We stayed one night on a grass spot with harvest host. While we did not “pay,” we were still treated as royalty. The entire team was amazing. The grass spit was up front by all of the amenities. The other lots are beautiful and further back. The pool is gorgeous. They have bikes that you check out with the bracelets, and the restaurant was top notch with live music.

  • Jeremy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Island Oaks RV Resort

    We will be back. Many Times!

    We just purchased our 33’ Salem travel trailer and we used Island Oaks as our shakedown trip. Honestly, its going to be hard to top this first trip. My Wife and I traveled with our 2 young children and our pup. We never had to leave the park, they had EVERYTHING. Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course, an on-site restaurant & ice cream shop, not to mention multiple fenced dog parks. I cant say enough positives about this place! I chose a pull through site and it had sewage, water, & electrical hook ups. They do offer free Wifi, however I would not rely on it, it was spotty at best. Dont think twice. Give this resort a try. It’s a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocala North RV Park
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Ocala North RV Park

    Great experience

    We stayed here for 3 weeks. Park staff made sure we had a shaded site in the front of the park. The park is very clean and well cared for. Staff is very attentive. Location is convenient to Gainesville or Ocala, and the park is next to a beautiful horse farm with curious, friendly horses. Great pool and fitness center. Very pet friendly!! We’ve already booked our next stay

  • Ashley W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort

    Sun Retreat Ocala Orange Lake RV Resort

    This is a beautiful large RV and golf resort. The grounds were clean and well maintained. There is a full 18 course golf course and putting green. There are also onsite golf cart rentals and a golf pro shop. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Bath houses were clean. Nice laundry facilities available. Campground is directly in Orange Lake with a dock available. Fishing permitted off dock and from shore. All roads were paved. There are both RVs and vacation rentals. Many things to do and lots of options for other recreation nearby. We came for spring break and would definitely visit again.

  • Danton T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs RV Park
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Silver Springs RV Park

    A great place to stay

    My wife and I decided last year to full time RV. We were already living in Ocala and we wanted to remain in the area. We discovered Silver Springs RV and are so glad we did. Everyone here, especially the staff, was so welcoming and friendly. SSRV is definitely going to be home for a long time.

  • Lorilee S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Pretty and quiet

    This campground is really dark, quiet and pretty. The bathhouse was always clean. You can smell the well water in the bathhouse. Brings me back to my childhood memories. We rode our bikes to the observation tower, but we were not lucky enough to see any bison or wild horses. Still nice to see the open prairie. We had a big rainstorm and the back of our site did become a lake, but it was gone overnight. The bugs lit us up all hours, so make sure you different bug sprays.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Edge RV Park
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Rivers Edge RV Park

    Hidden Camping Gem Truly On The River’s Edge

    One thing’s for certain, this camping outpost located just outside the itty bitty village of Georgetown couldn’t be any closer to the mighty St. Johns River, which if you don’t know, is one of the largest and most prolific fishing rivers in all of Florida. Should you find yourself in north-central Florida and / or near Lake George and looking for a spot to call ‘home for the night’ (or many as it might be) then you’ll definitely want to plan a stay here at Rivers Edge RV Park, which is a little know campground jewel in the rough, but be sure to reach out well in advance, as with only 50 or so slots, this place books up quick.

    Apart from the very close proximity to St. Johns River – so close that Rivers Edge RV Park actually offers up boat launch and slips exclusively for its guests, so if you have a boat, whether with motor or not (like those of us towing canoes and kayaks), be sure to call ahead and enquire about available boat slips – this is one very pristine, well-kept and easily organized campground. There’s a decent amount of top-grade amenities including spartan-clean restrooms, shower & laundry facilities with brand new washers & dryers, propane refueling station, a pup playground, trash stations and waterfront nature walk path.

    What I appreciated most was that Rivers Edge RV Park offers up a distinct tent area, which places mi tent-pitchin’ bredren in our own canvassed-erected environ that is actually the closest camping option to the St. Johns River here. As for the RV or 5th Wheel crowd, the standard hook-ups are offered here including 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage back-in and pull-through sites with concrete patios. Complimentary WiFi is offered everywhere and actually isn’t too bad (although our ability to stream was slow). Most sites offer up picnic tables and fire-rings and there are community offerings like a riverside pavilion (also with another set of restrooms and showers), lawn games, horseshoes, pickleball court and enough space for a good game of jarts or frisbee.

    As for the campground itself, you’ll access Rivers Edge RV Park simply by following Road 309 and just as this small country road bends making way for Drayton Island, you’ll want to turn in heading westerly, wherein you’ll be greeted by the main office where you’ll check in at the office immediately on the right. The layout for the campground is a simple loop, about the size of a junior football field with sites #1-28 on the right and the other sites through #54 on the interior of the loop. Should you not have a tent or an RV, no worries, the very good folks at Rivers Edge even have a handful of cabins that they’ll rent you. Overall, I found the pricing to be VERY affordable here – no matter what type of camping you might be interested in.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Rivers Edge RV Park offers up firewood for sale for a decent price, which I always like to flag, because if you don’t need to find additional space to haul firewood with you, it frees up space for other things, right?; (2) If you’ve got kids and need a much bigger space to let them run around, nearby this campground is a very nice kid’s playground as well as a soccer field; (3) For anyone wanting a bit of an off-the-grid adventure, just south of Rivers Edge is the Drayton Island Ferry (just take your second right after the US post office), where you can cross the channel over to Drayton Island for some decent off-the-trail biking & biking as well as zip-lining, which you can access on the far western side of the island at Grands Island Resort, which is a very cool camping outpost in its own right; and (4) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your roto-molded Cordova cooler or mini-onboard fridge, you’ll only find meager options near you that include Mel’s River Pub Italian Grille & Liquor Store that offers up a very diverse menu featuring pasta, sandwiches and pizzas, The Oaks Golf Club Café serving up glorified bar fare such as burgers, po-boys, wings, fried baskets, tacos & quesadillas and southern comfort food or Renegades on the River, which is actually another campground, but offers up a super-cool restaurant featuring pizzas, wings, peel & eat shrimp and fried foodstuffs like pickles and gator bites as well as a Tiki Hut pouring some mighty strong Daquiris and Mai Tais.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Rodman Campground

    Hidden Gem for Primitive Camping Solitude w/ Amenities & Reservoir Access

    Maybe it was that the light was falling at just the right time as I moseyed into Rodman Campground a good hour or so before dusk became official here just due south of Palatka, the Sunshine State’s ‘Unofficial Farmer’s Market’ and a pretty decent stretch from the endless miles of pristine white sand beaches on the Atlantic Coast or the overwhelming non-stop entertainment options of a city built on 'Mouse Magic.’ Whatever it was, there’s something that struck us as incredibly special about this particular campground outpost. I think what we left with was a surreal understanding that no matter what you come packing with, you’re gonna have just one helluva amazing camping experience here at Rodman Campground.

    This place is perfect for both the RV tribe as well as mi tent-pitching community. And I don’t often get to say that. As for the campground itself, while there’s 64 sites to choose from in all, there’s basically 3 distinct areas that you should be aware of. The first area is what I would call the VIP RV Lots, given its proximity to the Rodman Reservoir, while I’m not an RV enthusiast, but this spot feels like you’ve hit ‘the jackpot’ as it’s a single lane with 6 or so sites on either side and provides you with direct and easy access to a very well-maintained restroom and shower facility. The second area is exclusively carved out for my tribe – those that are packing their experience with them and like to unroll their version of protection from the elements while staring straight up at the blessed star-crossed sky while completely surrounded by the thick of nature and tall needle-like trees. And while Rodman Campground calls this the ‘primitive campground,’ I’ll affectionately refer to it as ‘Pitch-A-Tent Heaven.’ Admittedly, I’ve never set up camp so close to RVs that still made me feel like one with nature. The third and final campground option here at Rodman is what I will characterize as ‘RV Pavement Parking Lot Hell,’ where if you have an RV (and can’t get into the VIP RV spot, then, well, you’ll be parking yourself here, but hopefully the freshly poured flat concrete will turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

    Regardless of the camping neighborhood that you end up arriving at, Rodman Campground will impress upon you what an amazing place it is, first and foremost, by offering up what is, no doubt, some of the best FL SP staff you will ever encounter – they are friendly, helpful and incredibly proud of this patch of land that they call home. Secondly, the Rodman Reservoir offers nothing short of AMAZING kayak and canoe adventures. The amenities are pretty top notch: back-in and pull-through RV sites with full-hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage), scattered picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills, paved bicycle paths (and miles of additional pavement via Rodman Dam Road, boating within the 9K acre Rodman Preserve, designated dump stations, five reservable pavilions and an excellent boat ramp, freshwater fishing (license required), 5.1 miles of trail hiking (actually part of the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs adjacent to Rodman Campground, picnicking at waterfront pavilions (need to be reserved). If you’re a wild nature enthusiast, you’re in luck, because here at Rodman Campground, you’ll easily be able to spot: bald eagle, foxes, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, hawks and owls, osprey and the American alligator.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If I was an RV’er (and let’s be clear, I’m not) and I was looking to book a spot here at Rodman Campground, I would absolutely be looking at the VIP RV Lots wherein I would chose any of the spots that are backed up against the wilderness (that would be on the west), which offer a greater degree of connectivity with nature (and thus additional privacy) where, in particular, I would book one of these amazing sites: #2, #5, #9, #10 and #12. While the other sites in this spot aren’t bad, they just don’t offer the amount of privacy that these other 5 sites do; (2) For mi tent-pitching bredren, while almost all of these camp sites offer you a pristine au naturale experience (apart from the few sites that are front-facing (#14-17; #38) you’ll want to prioritize any other site (#18-37) as best you can; (3) If you come bringing your boat, please be aware that there’s submerged logs and other underwater obstructions to be aware of, so motor with caution!; (4) When you get tired of staring down the bottom of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or the emptiness of your on-board fridge, and want to try out some of the local fare, then look no further than Hog Wild Country Café back in Interlachen (no, we’re not in Switzerland, but if you head back NW, you’ll find this spot on County Road 310) where all the traditional BBQ plates are being served (smoked brisket, smoked turkey, smoked pork, OK, smoked EVERYTHING) along with killer southern sides like mac-n-cheese, potato salad, slaw and, my favorite, Vidalia onion rings!; and (5) If you come hauling watercraft, you’ll have no shortage of great launches here at Rodman Campground, but if you are looking to dip your canoe or kayak in some different places, I would highly recommend Marjorie Harris Carr (just follow the Kenwood Boat Ram Road till it reaches a parking circle, from which you’ll easily see the boat launch) or over across the reservoir as well as just heading a bit further west to Rodman Recreation Area where you can drop in there or over at the Rodman Dam Kayak Launch, which has tons of tributaries to navigate.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort

    Single-Lane RV Parking Strip w/ Direct Access to St. Johns River

    If you find yourself up in the northeastern corner pocket of the Sunshine State, and for some reason end-up here in Palatka (a.k.a. The Farmer’s Market of the entire State of Florida) and looking for a spot to park your mobile living room on solid ground, then Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort might just be the spot for you. Careful though, as there are only about 8 spots here to choose from (although this RV riverside stand is promising 40 more tree-lined RV slots in the near future), but all sites come with full hook-ups including 30 / 50 electrical, water and sewage. There are no picnic tables, BBQ grills or any other amenities to speak of, but you will have direct access to St. Johns River with an amazing boat launch. That’s about it.

    Other than the pavement that you will drive on upon entering this spot or the flat and level sandy locations that you will park upon, there’s not a whole lot to this particular place, although there is an incredibly nice restaurant / bar scenario called ‘The Lighthouse’ (formerly named ‘Captain’s Cove Bar’) which is a decent bar with all of the usuals on tap and on shelf. There’s food trucks and live music on the weekends, but bear in mind that your RV will be parked in the same spot as said food trucks along with all of the local parking traffic that overruns the parking lot you will find yourself in.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While there’s not much to offer in these parts, you are right near Palatka, which is kind of an overgrown town, that has a number of standard drive-by restaurants that you’ll expect (Chili’s … add every standard fast-food restaurant chain here), but there are a few hidden gems, of which, I highly recommend Corky’s Bell Seafood @ Gator Landing, which I would encourage you to try the fried whole catfish or the mahi-mahi served grilled or blackened; (2) Despite the bar offering here at Crystal Cove, which might keep you rooted because it’s just so dang easy and close, I would highly recommend a trip to Welatka Lodge Resort, which for a 25 minute ride south along the St. John's River will certainly impress; and (3) If you’re looking for a great slice of nature to discover and hike / fish / kayak / etc. then head on over to Etoniah State Forest, which is less than a 20 minute drive from Crystal Cove and there’s 4-5 amazing hiking trails to explore as well as Georges Lake with which to cast a line.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kate’s Fish Camp
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Kate’s Fish Camp

    Roadside Fish Camp Draped in Spanish Moss

    Typically up here in northern Florida, whether you are on the coast or further inland, when you hear or see the name ‘fish camp,’ depending upon where you are from (or honestly, where you're at), the name typically conjures up one or two images - a mossy covered waterside restaurant serving up some freshly caught fish, typically fried, and with a whole lot fo southern fixin’s like grits, black-eyed peas, fried okra and the like. Or, it’s a reference to an actual campground that just so happens to be located right alongside a nice stretch of water, which could be a massive river like St. Johns in these parts, or a smaller, meandering outlet that either connects to a larger body of water, say a lake, or even the ocean. So let’s set the record straight, when visiting this particular fish camp, we are definitely talking about the latter, rather than the former.

    Heading towards Gainesville recently, I came across Kate’s Fish Camp, very conveniently located in the the middle of nowhere, but altogether, sitting on a very nice bit of a water trail called Prairie Creek, which I was told, would eventually, through perseverance and timing your luck between low and high tide, have you arrive at the ocean, but I have to admit, I don’t know how that is even possible, as we were only able to make our way to Orange Lake, but hey, it was my first try. Maybe you will have more luck, or perhaps I got it wrong and at some point, you just need to strap your kayak or canoe on top of your vehicle and drive it closer to a ‘frackish’ inlet that will allow you to ultimately reach some salt water.

    As far as Kate’s Fish Camp go, the wonderful duo of Mike & Monica run this roadside camping rest stop and upon entry, you will marvel at just how intimate and compact the place is complete with substantial shade that blocks all of the harsh Floridian sunshine from otherwise roasting you in its humid inferno. The main office looks like something out of Duck Dynasty and is an old-schooled wooden single-story structure with restrooms and shower facilities (both pretty basic, but clean, albeit poorly lit) towards the front, and the entrance to the actual office on the rear-side, closer to the creek access point. On the subject of water access, let’s just say that while the meandering creek is definitely of interest and should be explored, the real find here is the nearby access to Newnans Lake, which just sits north of Kate’s Fish Camp and, unfortunately, requires a quick drive to Palm Point Park (around the corner from here) in order to access this body of water, but it’s totally worth it, especially if you have an engine-powered fishing boat and are looking to get out on the water to do some decent fishing.

    Back at the campground, here’s what you need to know. For starters, there’s about a dozen or so sites that are offered with each being pull-through ready. While this campground feels more geared towards the RV driving or 5th Wheel toting crowd, as a tent pitcher myself, this place is pretty OK from a tent camping standpoint. You’ll definitely appreciate all the shade that is offered here, as well as close proximity to the basic amenities (showers/ bathrooms) and river access. The picnic tables are pretty standard and there are scattered BBQs and fire rings. There’s also some pretty great WiFi here for those that need it. One of the huge upsides apart from direct river and bike path access is a number of really great hiking trails that you can explore both flora and fauna alike.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) One of the huge upsides to Kate’s Fish Camp is the direct access you’ll have to the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Bike Trail, which if you wanted to, could lead you all the way into Gainesville to enjoy the UF campus and surrounding area without having to put up with traffic; (2) While Kate’s Fish Camp boasts about providing you with DIRECT access to Newnan’s Lake, it was our experience that you could not access the lake directly and that eventually, you would have to return to camp, pack your kayak on your vehicle and drive a quarter mile to the actual boat launch in order to access the lake - I don’t know why they tell folks that they provide direct access; (3) For RVers you will want to take note that Kate’s doesn’t provide sewer hook-ups, just water and electric (20 / 30 / 50 amp) for all of their pull-through sites; (4) You should take note that this campground is literally located right next to a fairly busy 4-lane highway, so if P&Q is important to you, consider another location, otherwise, bring some earplugs!; (5) It’s Florida, it’s the summer, and unless you weren’t already aware of it, you’re landlocked here in the middle of the state, so what does that mean? Mosquitos and bugs, so yeah, come prepared (and don't complain about mosquitos - they are endemic to FL)!; (6) When you get tired of sifting through your on-board mini-fridge or toto-molded Cordova cooler to conjure up what your next meal is going to be, then check out nearby dining options such as Antonio’s Made In Italy, Georgie’s Lakeside or Eagles Nest - and of course, there’s all the generic restaurant-fare that you’ll find in nearby Gainesville, but I’ve tried to suggest some slightly off-the-beaten path joints. If you want an Instagram-worthy dining experience that also lives up to the hype when you bite into their succulent pies, then head on over to Satchel’s Pizza for their deep dish pizza and local brews.

    Happy Camping!

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Black Prong Equestrian Village

    Great Place

    Stayed here for 4 nights and really enjoyed it. Large paver sites with plenty of space. Beautiful horse farm setting. Pool and amenities were awesome. Can’t wait to come back!

  • Jeff E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Jun. 26, 2024

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Immersed in Nature.

    Quiet, lots of wildlife (wild horses, bison, alligators, deer, birds, turtles); plenty of hiking and biking trails with beautiful sunsets on the lake. Restroom facilities are showing some age but clean.  Walk-in tent sites are pretty close to the Restrooms.

  • Lorilee S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Santos Trailhead & Campground
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Santos Trailhead & Campground

    Very nice

    This campground is the perfect size. Our site had shade about 95% of the day! We had the perfect size of an area behind our RV. Loved hearing all of the birds chirping. You can hear traffic since it’s right off of the highway. There are plenty of trees around. The bathroom was very clean. It’s nice and dark at night!! We did the hike to see the historical part of the Island. That was neat to read about. We also took the biking trail to say we went above i75 on the bridge. That was a round trip of 15.5 miles, if anyone is interested. It’s a really nice campground, especially if like doing trails and biking.

  • Greg B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Pond Campground
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Ocean Pond Campground

    Ocean Pond Spot 9

    Nice quite campground. Well maintain. Clean bathrooms and working laundry machines (1 each) 1.75 for wash and 1.75 for dry. Lake and beach access are nice and maintained.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Amazing kayaking & trails

    Campground is basic, very few sewer spots but there is a dump station. Big rig friendly, several pull thru spots, easy paved entry, gravel sites, I think all are 50/30. Plenty of space between sites. Clean bathroom, washer/dryer, soda machine. Very dark at night which I love. No lights except the bath house. Dog poo bag stations. Very friendly staff (Melinda & John, camp hosts were amazing) 1 mile from amazing kayaking. Great, woodsy hiking trails. Maybe 3 miles to Publix/Wawa.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground

    Be prepared for cramped buddy sites

    Site# 54 Check in: 1pm Check out: 11am Full hook- up Easy to level Gravel back-in (Most, if not all sites are Buddy sites - so be prepared to face a neighbor you do not know. -We were literally looking at each other for ten weeks - with us having two dogs and neighbors having three dogs-complete bark fest). We were so close our awnings would not go out all the way or we would touch.

    Lot is Shaded with lots of trees. Not a big lot since you have to share space with your neighbor

    • No concrete patio - no picnic table but had a fire ring

    Located in the middle of nowhere- Dollar General is four miles away and Walmart is 11 miles (doesn’t seem far but on all back roads, it takes a while) Closest highway (75) is 45 miles away & I-90 is an hour

    Zero WiFi or Zero cell service (1 tiny bar but not enough to do a basic internet search) - once we purchased Starlink ($599), we were able to stream. No Cable TV- limited channels No Outdoor kitchen No Outdoor community sinks to clean big pots

    They do not pickup garbage at site daily, Must walk to garbage dumpster - not too far

    Allowed to ride personal golf carts Not Able to rent golf carts or pedal bikes from them Golf cart not really needed- smaller campground Indoor heated Swimming pool Natural Spring within park but due to rain & flooding of the Suwannee River over the ten weeks we were there, we were unable to access the spring or experience kayaking or the few amenities of the park. Very disappointing.
    Had a Playground No Bocce ball, shuffleboard, There was basketball court and volleyball court.

    Good general store with basics No Activity Center for kids Unsure if there are activities for kids (there were not from January-March). There is not a snack bar/restaurant . Not a Game room, putt putt, or jumping pad for kids No Workout room

    Streets are gravel/sand -not great for riding bikes in campground Great places to ride bikes outside of campground (not near this campground) though- look for Nature Coast State Trail

    Lots of cabin and tent space Individual bathrooms with own sink, shower, toilet & clean

    Laundry machines (one washer & one dryer) per bathhouse- only two bath houses

    Dog area - not fenced in - they have a huge field behind the campground that they keep the outside mowed & is a great place to walk dogs

    There were not bugs/flies initially but as it has started warming up, it has slowly gotten worse

    There were trails to hike off of the campground.

    The most disappointing aspect is that they were selling presidential hats in the general store. One - politics and recreation don’t go together and two- if you’re going to sell one candidate but not the other, you’re a biased business

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Island Oaks RV Resort

    Island oaks camping

    I have stay at Island Oaks several times and we love it We had some issue when first stayed but I chalked that up to a teaching lesson. Now I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord. Yes it is a dry county on Sunday but that’s only one day. You will not be disappointed to stay there. They also have live music on Saturday and so far it’s never been disappointing You will enjoy it.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Loved this campground. We had sites 22 & 24. Site 22 has lots of sun; site 24 was full shade all day. I thought site 20 was the best. All campsites are very roomy. Bring your paddleboard or kayak. We drove to Silver Springs park and put in. Lazy river ride for 2 miles where we got out at the River trail. If you do this, bring your kayak wheels as it is a 1 mile walk back to the campground (or 1/2 mile to the River Trail trailhead). Then went to pick up truck where we started. Highly recommend this campground. There are also lots of trails to hike, but it was so hot when we were there we did not do any but the river trail.



Guide to Waldo

Explore the great outdoors with your furry friends at some of the best pets-allowed camping spots near Waldo, Florida. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and activities that cater to both you and your pets.

Dog owners appreciate spacious sites and amenities

Pet-friendly campgrounds include great outdoor activities

  • The Travelers Campground provides access to walking trails where you can explore the natural beauty of the area with your pet by your side.
  • At High Springs RV Resort and Campground, you can enjoy swimming and fishing while your dog enjoys the spacious grounds.
  • Sportsman's Cove Resort is located near Orange Lake, offering opportunities for kayaking and fishing, making it a fun spot for pet owners.

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Waldo

  • The Etoniah Creek State Forest features hiking trails that are perfect for exploring with your dog, allowing you to enjoy the serene surroundings together.
  • At Kate's Fish Camp, you can take your pet along for a day of fishing or simply relax by the water.
  • Camp Seminole Springs offers beautiful nature trails and a spring for swimming, providing a great way to spend quality time with your pet in a peaceful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Waldo, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Waldo, FL is Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins with a 4.5-star rating from 31 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Waldo, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 158 dog-friendly camping locations near Waldo, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.