The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Gainesville, Florida

Looking to go camping near Gainesville, Florida with your pets? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2600 options in the area, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect spot for you and your furry friends. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin, a spacious RV site, or a secluded tent site, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out the top campsites like Smokey Acres (358 reviews), Buffalo Creek Campsites (243 reviews), and North Shore Relic Ranch (221 reviews) for some tried and true options. With popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly sites, and toilets, and activities like biking, off-roading, and wind sports, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $39 and options as low as $10, you'll find something that fits your budget. Start planning your camping adventure now!

96% (4.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Gainesville

Looking to go camping near Gainesville, Florida with your pets? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2600 options in the area, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect spot for you and your furry friends. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin, a spacious RV site, or a secluded tent site, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out the top campsites like Smokey Acres (358 reviews), Buffalo Creek Campsites (243 reviews), and North Shore Relic Ranch (221 reviews) for some tried and true options. With popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly sites, and toilets, and activities like biking, off-roading, and wind sports, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $39 and options as low as $10, you'll find something that fits your budget. Start planning your camping adventure now!

96% (4.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Gainesville

1. Santa Fe Riverfront / Ichetucknee

100%

(58)

32mi from Gainesville · 2 sites · RVs

Private Riverfront site on the Santa Fe river. This is NOT an RV site next to a dwelling! We offer a spacious 2 acre and private river front retreat with a covered boat dock. Located on the spring fed Santa Fe River just upstream from the crystal clear Ichetucknee River. We offer two covered RV pads with full 50/30 amp; water/sewage hook ups. Price is for one RV site. Tent camping is only allowed in addition to a RV or travel trailer as there are no bathroom facilities. Contact us for details and to reserve the second covered site for larger groups of extended family and friends. Enjoy kayaking and swimming in the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee rivers or relaxing on our covered boat dock (the private boat ramp is 1.5 mi away). Don't have a kayak, don't worry, you can rent one of ours. Use one of three fire pits included with the space or cook a meal down by the water on the park quality in-ground charcoal grill. Access to the neighborhood parks is included. Hodor (drop off) and Point park (pick up) are on the Ichetucknee river for private tube runs. Access to dock may be limited during extreme high water. Bring your boat and explore the many springs on the Santa Fe and Suwanee rivers. Invite your friends and family to this one-of-a-kind property! Look out for:- Deer, Manatee, Turkey, Opossums, Raccoons, Otters, Beavers, Turtles, Snakes, Alligators, Mosquitoes, Lizards, Cicadas, Flies, Frogs, Fish, Owls, Too many types of birds to count.

2. Neal’s Nest

98%

(27)

35mi from Gainesville · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging

This cabin is the perfect disconnect from the hustle and constant presence of everyday life. Surrounding you with lots of outdoor activities including fishing,kayaking,diving, swimming and plenty of wildlife to see. Has handicap ramp,screen porch and campfire. Mini fridge, microwave, linens and towels.

3. River Life Retreat

100%

(36)

36mi from Gainesville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Beautiful waterfront sites. Pitch your tent or pull up your camper to these riverfront campsites on the bank of the beautiful Suwannee River in North Florida. Fishing, swimming, nature walks and total serenity await you.. Bring your fishing poles. There are also many freshwater springs in the area Stores and gas stations are within 10 minutes of the retreat and Turner Point boat ramp is just a few minutes away. The Retreat is temporarily closed due to flooding on the Suwannee River. We are just 10 minutes north of Old Town off of State 349. You need to let me know your power requirements when booking.

4. The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

98%

(20)

37mi from Gainesville · 1 site · RV

The Hatch Bend Hideaway “A Private 2-Acre Oasis on the Historic Suwannee River!” Calling all RV and travel trailer adventurers! Escape to The Hatch Bend Hideaway, where breathtaking sunsets, serene river views, and outdoor fun await—just for you. Nestled along the Suwannee River in Hatch Bend, Lafayette County (near Branford, FL), this exclusive two-acre, tree-lined retreat is a full hook-up destination designed for RVers and outdoor enthusiasts. What to Expect: • • Convenient RV Set-Up: Easy one-way drive-through parking with full hook-ups, including 50-amp electrical, fresh water, and septic connections. • Private Riverfront: Relax on 200 feet of pristine, private Suwannee River frontage. • Outdoor Adventures: Bring your water toys and enjoy boating, fishing, tubing, paddling, snorkeling, or skiing. Visit eight nearby natural freshwater springs that stay a refreshing 72°F year-round. Amenities: • Exclusive 2-acre property with private access • Pet-friendly grounds • Coal BBQ grill and a fire-safe fire pit • Horseshoe pits for fun and games • On-site firewood (split your own) • Garbage barrel pick-up for your convenience • Nearby boat ramp (2 miles) and local groceries/restaurants (8 miles) • Local guided river and springs tours available Location Highlights: • Centrally located: 30 miles from Live Oak, Lake City, and High Springs • Just 55 miles northwest of Gainesville and 8 miles from Branford For the Adventure-Seeker or the Serenity-Lover, The Hatch Bend Hideaway invites you to experience North Florida’s last wild river in its untouched beauty. Reserve your private slice of nature today!

5. Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

95%

(273)

38mi from Gainesville · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 500 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of stores with our blueberries. We also have an active u-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.Learn more about this land:Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 600 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of other stores with our blueberries. We also have an active we-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.

Public campgrounds near Gainesville

100%

(9)

Paynes Prairie Campground

11mi from Gainesville · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · in Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

100%

(4)

Magnolia Campground

22mi from Gainesville · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in O'Leno State Park

100%

(1)

Lake Johnson Cabins

26mi from Gainesville · 16 sites · in Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

One of the cabins available at the park.

100%

(2)

Sandhill Campground

26mi from Gainesville · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

Rodman Campground

35mi from Gainesville · 60 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cross Florida Greenway

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Teri

6 days ago

30 ft Class C

With pets

11 nights at Riverfront Santa Fe / Ichetucknee

Jerry's land was perfect. We spent 10 days and loved every one. Our dogs had plenty of room to run and explore. Plus swim! Thanks for all the free firewood! During the week we felt like we were the only people on the river. We will definitely stay again if in the area! Thank you Jerry.

S

Skip

3 weeks ago

39 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Riverfront / Ichetucknee

Very nice and secluded area on the water. will definitely stay there again.

S

Scott

December 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at River Life Retreat

Very peaceful, and right on the Suwannee. Plenty of wildlife, no humans, and the river view was fantastic.

M

Martha

December 2025

18 ft travel trailer

1 night at Neal’s Nest

We stayed at Neal's Nest twice in the past month, as a stopover on our way to visit family in Georgia. Because we were several family members traveling together, we rented an RV site as well as the little cottage. We felt like our host, Tina, has created a really lovely little camping spot. It's quiet, clean, and she's added so many things to make one's stay enjoyable - from the sensor light that comes on at the gate, to the inviting fire pit and grill area, to the volleyball net. The cottage was probably a shed in a former life, but she has really made it a guest cottage. The bed was comfortable, the shower was large and had plenty of hot water, and everything was spotless. We enjoyed having a peaceful cup of coffee on the cottage porch in the morning. We'll definitely be staying here again.

J

Jennifer

November 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

We loved this campsite! It had everything we need it and the place is beautiful! I was breathing in the morning looking out to the river! Very clean also. Capt. was very nice came over and said hello!! We will definitely be coming back!

Dee

November 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at River Life Retreat

Sarah's site was well off the beaten path; old Florida country at it's best! The camps have an unobstructed view of the river, with easy access to the dock. Lots of old growth trees for canopy. Sarah was very communicative, willing to work with us as we chose parking for the RVs and overall happy to help. Electric & water hookups are a bit farther away than we were used to, but she told us ahead of time and we were able to bring the connectors needed. Definitely recommend to those seeking a true "get away" without an abundance of unnecessary amenities & people.

A

Autumn

November 2025

26 ft Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Riverfront / Ichetucknee

Had a great 2 days staying in our rv at Jerry’s spot with 5 kids (4 being teenagers). Loved having the dock area to fish from, launch our paddle boards. Was nice to be able to tie up our boards and leave them on the water inside the dock slip area. Plenty of space for everyone to roam. The wash sink is a nice bonus I didn’t realize I needed in my life of camping lol. Best part we saw a momma and baby manatee swim by as we were hanging on the dock.

D

Dina

October 2025

38 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

The site is great for a relaxing stay. The accommodations were very nice. We enjoyed fishing, making s’more’s around the fire pit and playing horse shoes. There was firewood available on site for us to use. The WiFi was great for watching tv a night. We will be back soon.

D

Dani

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

It was very peaceful. Very nice little setup. Had a fire ring and picnic table and that’s all you need. Me dogs roamed around and quickly learned about the cactus. No harm done and there are warning signs, my dogs just can’t read. It’s a nice little retreat away. We will definitely be back.

m

mindy

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

Absolutely everything was perfect….. help pulling in at dark to a fire in the pit waiting for us….. best Captain and his family, also own a 3 br air bnb 2 door down which is so beautiful and family oriented …. The silence at night was amazing, we will be back for sure and our dogs loved it .

B

Brienne

October 2025

28 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Riverfront Santa Fe / Ichetucknee

What a fantastic find! Barely an hour from Gainesville, and all of 20 minutes from High Springs, this site offered privacy, beauty, quiet, and easy accessibility for swimming and paddling! This is a great site for two or for gaggle of folks, and I'd love to go back with the family. We paddled every morning, and even the current wasn't an issue going up-stream. The water near the property was extremely clear and shallow enough (in early October) for just wading or floating right off the shore/boat house. Considering the beautiful weather, we actually found it odd how quiet this strip of the river was - where were all the people?! We weren't complaining, though. Only item that wasn't fully as "advertised," was the camp sink which was functional, but the water just empties at the base of the sink and onto your feet. We didn't use it. Instructions from the host were clear, and they maintained good communication through the stay.

J

Jessie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

Had a wonderful time tent camping with my dogs. I loved that they could run free (please not that there are cactus on the property - there are signs - so just make sure your dog doesn’t get pricked) and explore the land. We were the only campers at sites 1-4 so it was quiet. You can hear some road noise. Close to a lot of state parks and springs to do some exploring! We will definitely be back!

J

Joseph

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

3 nights at The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

Our stay was peaceful, the lot is beautiful. We took a nap outside. Very clean and will be going again

The Hatch Bend Hideaway offers only one full hook-up site.
The property owner, Capt. Cas, has a covered destination trailer permanently on property and does occupy during the evening.

R

Richard

September 2025

37 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

4 nights at The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

We loved staying at The Hatch Bend Hideaway. Captain Cas is an awesome host and a pleasure to speak with. The place is in a beautiful setting on Suwanee River. A short boat ride from many of the springs.

Andra

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Riverfront / Ichetucknee

Great location! Very well kept place. We had an absolute blast!

S

Steve

August 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

Great place for a camp. Unfortunately we were limited to a quick visit but look forwarding to visiting again in the future.

Elizabeth

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Neal’s Nest

Everything was perfect for my country escape . Visited Cedar Key , Suwannee and Santa Fe rivers area my favorite getaway . I definitely will return.

Matthew

July 2025

23 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Santa Fe Riverfront / Ichetucknee

Camping on Jerry’s land was an absolute delight! The property was incredibly well kept—clean, organized, and clearly cared for with pride. The highlight for us was the beautiful river that runs alongside the site. It added a peaceful, scenic backdrop to our stay and was perfect for relaxing by the water or enjoying a quiet morning coffee. Whether you're looking for a serene escape or a base for outdoor adventures, Jerry’s land is a fantastic choice. Highly recommend!

Full grass lot for lots of fun games and walking out on the road to see the cattle.

A

Aaron

June 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

We had such a great time at Capt.’s property. It was very well maintained and it had everything we needed. The water, electric and sewer are the best I have ever seen.

A

Amanda

June 2025

15 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Riverfront / Ichetucknee

We absolutely LOVED our stay! We chose this location for a birthday camping trip and could have had a better spot! The location is convenient and quiet. We enjoyed the access to the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee Rivers. The site was clean and as described. The host was communicative and friendly. Having sunrise breakfast and coffee on the river was top tier. Enjoying all the stars and the cicadas at night was just as cozy! I will stay at this site every chance I get. 10/10!