The best pets off leash campgrounds near Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville might be Florida’s most populous city, but it’s also its greenest—this coastal city boasts the largest urban park system in the US. Urban explorers can take their pick of seven state parks, three national parks and preserves, and some 400 parks and gardens, all within a half-hour drive of downtown. Once you’ve browsed Jax’s art museums and visited the Fort Caroline National Memorial, check into an RV park along the St. Johns River, pitch your tent on the beach at Little Talbot Island State Park, or kayak around the wetlands in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.

96% (618)

Top-rated campgrounds near Jacksonville

Jacksonville might be Florida’s most populous city, but it’s also its greenest—this coastal city boasts the largest urban park system in the US. Urban explorers can take their pick of seven state parks, three national parks and preserves, and some 400 parks and gardens, all within a half-hour drive of downtown. Once you’ve browsed Jax’s art museums and visited the Fort Caroline National Memorial, check into an RV park along the St. Johns River, pitch your tent on the beach at Little Talbot Island State Park, or kayak around the wetlands in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.

96% (618)

Top-rated campgrounds near Jacksonville

1. Wooded areas in a horse pasture

95%

(644)

33mi from Jacksonville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Campsites are on a small horse farm located just 4 miles from downtown St Augustine and 5 miles from Vilano Beach. Many hiking and water activities within 30 minutes. You select the space you where you wish to set up camp. The entrance off the dirt road is tricky for large rigs or trailers more than 35' may not have easy access. Our sites offer potable water, a shower, picnic tables, a toilet, wifi, trash disposal, space for campfires, and we are pet friendly! We can accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers. Our guests love staying here: "Camping at Gayle’s property was an amazing experience. We shared the field with 3 other campers but there was still plenty of room between sites. Land is flat and has fire pit spaces and BBQ grills. Outdoor shower was appreciated even though we didn’t use it & it was great to have the port-o-potty on site. The best part was getting to see the animals!"

2. Blackwater Ranch – River Camping

100%

(39)

28mi from Jacksonville · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

🌿 Welcome to Blackwater, y’all Just 35 minutes from Jacksonville, Blackwater is a secluded 10+ acre private riverfront property at Georgia’s southernmost edge right on the Florida-Georgia Line. Surrounded by protected woodland and a sweeping river bend, it offers space, quiet, and a true escape from crowded camps. Your view looks straight into Florida, across 150+ acres of undeveloped preserve, giving the property a peaceful, remote feel while remaining easy to access. 📸 Yes, you can swim or stand in two states at once for that perfect Instagram photo Situated on the St. Marys River, a rain-fed freshwater river flowing from the Okefenokee Swamp. Natural tannins from peat give the water its famous sweet-tea color, which appears darker in deeper sections and clearer along the shore. ✔️ Clean and safe for swimming ✔️ Naturally antibacterial ✔️ No pollutants or runoff ✔️ No smell, mud, or rocks ✔️ Soft white sugar-sand bottom The property sits on an ancient 10,000+ year-old beach dune (Trail Ridge), creating one of the best natural swimming spots for cooling off on hot summer days. 🌱 Rare Southern Ecosystem: Blackwater sits where river, ancient sea dune, hardwood forest, pine uplands, and cypress wetland all meet. Southern live oaks, saw palmettos, wax myrtle, and wild huckleberry-blueberries fill the landscape, an ecosystem rarely found on a single property. 🏕️ Camping, Families, and Groups: Well-spaced sites across open wooded areas provide room to spread out without the packed feel of state parks. Ideal for tent camping, vanlife, RVs, families, and small or large group gatherings. A 70-foot covered riverfront pavilion with electricity, water, hammocks, and a firepit overlooks the water, perfect for meals, shade, and gathering out of the summer rainstorms. 🔎 Quick Camp Details: 🏕️ Spacious sites on a 10+ acre property 🚗 Easy vehicle access 🔥 Firepits and grills throughout 🌌 Dark, quiet nights for stargazing 🐕 Dog-friendly - FREE 📶 Cell service is spotty (great for unplugging) 🚣 Things To Do: Swim • Fish • Kayak • Canoe • Paddleboard 📍 Minutes from St. Marys Shoals Equipedal Park 📍 Close to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (Okefenokee Adventures) Peaceful, scenic, unforgettable, secluded riverfront camping near Jax!

3. The Lodge at Hartley Oaks

97%

(52)

47mi from Jacksonville · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Sleep under the stars at Buffalo Creek while at Hartley Oaks formerly known as Newell Lodge. Select your site or pitch your tent. The outdoors is right outside your door. Fire Pits and wood are available at a nominal fee. Guest full bathrooms are available. Nestled in the midst of a private 57-acre native live oak forest, you'll find yourself quite happily in the middle of nowhere. Out here, nature sings you to sleep. You'll awaken to a place and time found nowhere else in the world. Located in rural Georgia on a 57-acre tract of beautiful live oak trees. 30 and 50 amperage hookups are available for RVs. (Electric and Water.) Four full bathrooms are available for guests. An accessible dump station is on-site. Buffalo Creek Campsites are on the grounds of Hartley Oaks near the Okefenokee Swamp. Our sites are closed to the general public and available by reservation only. Welcome!

4. Island Oaks RV Resort

31mi from Jacksonville · 371 sites · RVs, Lodging

Experience the ultimate getaway at Island Oaks RV Resort – where every weekend brings a new theme, live music fills the air, and fun is always in season. From unique cabins and full-hookup RV sites to our swim lake, resort-style pool, food trucks, and full bar, Island Oaks is built for memory-making. Enjoy pickleball, basketball, fishing, karaoke nights, and a packed schedule of events for all ages. Whether you’re staying for a night or a month, Island Oaks is your go-to destination for non-stop entertainment and lakeside relaxation. Book your RV site or cabin today – daily, weekly, and monthly stays available!

5. Celestial Acres

98%

(145)

45mi from Jacksonville · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our little homestead. Nestled amidst the serene countryside, this quaint campground offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush farms and sprawling horse pastures, the air is filled with the sweet scent of wildflowers and the gentle rustle of leaves. With only a handful of RV spots and a few cozy tents scattered among the trees, guests can truly reconnect with nature while roasting marshmallows over crackling campfires under a blanket of stars. Here, the pace slows down, allowing visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in the simple pleasures of rural life. We just finished (well 2 years ago) traveling the country in an RV with five of our 7 kids (oldest two were in college) and we had a terrible time finding places to stay in Saint Augustine when we came home to visit. I hope that we can offer some nice people a safe and beautiful place to park their rig. Things to do: The property is near the historic St. Augustine, a fun walkable/bikeable city, lots of state parks and of course an awesome beach! Other things to note: 6 Miles away is 4 Lakes Campground with dumping facilities

6. Sunset Escape Farmstead

100%

(26)

42mi from Jacksonville · 2 sites · RVs

Discover a peaceful farm retreat set along the banks of a serene river, enveloped by lush greenery and towering trees. As the sun sets on the river, casting a warm golden glow across the landscape, the tranquil ambiance takes hold. Nature's symphony fills the air with the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and flowing water, creating a perfect harmony that invites you to unwind and connect with the beauty of the outdoors. Immerse yourself in this idyllic setting, where each moment promises tranquility and a connection to the natural world.

7. Filly's Place

100%

(9)

30mi from Jacksonville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Peaceful place to spend as many nights as you need. Park next to the lake and take out your fishing pole and have a blast catching Big Bass, Bream and Specs and maybe a catfish. If fishing is not your thing sit by the waterfall and relax or roast a marshmallow or two in the fire pit.

8. Lofton Retreat

100%

(43)

19mi from Jacksonville · 1 site · RV

This 2-acre lot will put you in touch with nature! You will see and hear owls, many species of birds in a quiet, peaceful setting. Bluebird boxes, bird feeder and birdbath are near the RV site, so you will enjoy watching nature right at your campsite. During hummingbird season, you will observe these tiny amazing birds enjoying our homemade nectar. Turtles enjoy roaming the property also. The camper pictured is in the spot where your RV will be parked. A firepit and grate are at the campsite. You will be minutes from Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island, where you can swim and surf or rent horses for a beach horseback ride. Lofton Creek Kayaking and boat launches are within minutes. Several state parks are also nearby. You will have your pick of shopping and restaurants all within 15-30 minutes of your camp site. We offer the following items which are available for purchase: Bundle of Firewood, Bag of Fat lighter, Farm Fresh Eggs based on availability; please inquire Please notify host a minimum of 30 minutes prior to your arrival. so we can greet you and show you to your site. Check in is between 3 and 8 PM unless prior arrangements have been made. We are nearby in case needed. Thank you.

9. PREVIOUS & SELECT new guests.

100%

(18)

42mi from Jacksonville · 4 sites · RVs

If you DO NOT or CAN NOT read this entire description.....please move on! We are accepting booking requests from previous guests and select new guests. We like people but our privacy is also important too. We prefer guests that are active or veteran of a 12-step recovery program. No drugs or alcohol use on site. Very dog friendly. Off leash. Large grass play area....our dog guests love it here! ***** -> Explain your situation/lifestyle if you haven't stay with us before. <-***** Remind us your dog's name if you have been here before. Please don't be offended if we don't accept your request. We are selective with whom we share our paradise with....one day at a time. No Harris, Biden or Bernie bumper stickers types please...thank you for understanding.

10. Grace Haven Homestead

100%

(9)

38mi from Jacksonville · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Grace Haven Homestead, a tranquil escape and community gathering place in North Florida. As a retreat center, we will host families, youth groups, camps, and more, providing a peaceful refuge to reconnect with nature and each other. During your stay with us you will get to connect with many beautiful animals, including exotics like foxes, emus, and kinkajous. We are new, this is why our pricing is so cheap for our lodging. We want you to have every reason to come and experience this so you can leave us wonderful reviews and spread the word about our place. Hope to see you soon Accommodations: RV Rentals: Select from our range of fully-equipped RVs for a comfortable stay. Primitive Camping: Set up your tent and relish a back-to-nature camping experience beneath the stars. Activities: Animal Encounters: Immerse yourself in close and personal interactions with various animals, including several exotics. ATV Rentals: Embark on your own ATV adventure to explore our vast property. Shooting Range: Hone your aim and engage in some target practice at our shooting range. Outdoor Speakers: Unwind and enjoy music or podcasts in our outdoor seating area. Additional Amenities: Seating and Cooking Area: Gather around the fire pit or picnic tables for a delightful meal with friends and family. Scenic Views: Marvel at the beauty of the surrounding countryside and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Whether you're in search of a quiet retreat or an adventurous getaway, our retreat center caters to all preferences. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of our property, creating lasting memories with us.

11. Molasses Junction Stables

100%

(1)

35mi from Jacksonville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Rustic 3-Acre Farm stay Near Historic Downtown Welcome to Saint Augustine! Our peaceful 3-acre farm, just a 15-minute drive from charming historic downtown and the beautiful nearby beaches. Our rustic property offers the perfect and affordable home base to park your camper or boat, 20 minutes from Riverdale Park and boat ramp for access to the beautiful St Johns River. Enjoy the privacy of a gated entrance, easy access with plenty of room to maneuver, and wide-open rural views in every direction. As night falls, relax under a blanket of brilliant stars — a true country experience you won’t forget. Inquire for details and accomadations. Thanks for reading.

12. St. John's Campground

83%

(12)

50mi from Jacksonville · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to St. John's Campground, where nature meets convenience and comfort. Enjoy shaded lots, a pool, hot showers, and laundry. Stay connected with Wi-Fi and dine outdoors at our picnic tables. Explore fishing spots along St. Johns River and more. Visit St. Augustine and Crescent Beach just 30 mins away. Drive an hour to Daytona, Jacksonville, Gainesville, or Silver Springs. Nearby, enjoy Palatka Blue Crab and Azalea Festivals. Golf and a race track are 2.5 miles away. Experience nature, comfort, and adventure at St. John's Campground.

13. Ichiban rv club

17mi from Jacksonville · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

1 uncovered RV spot, 1 covered rv spot and 1 rv spot with a rv already in it for rent, all spread out away from each other, full hookups for rv, gravel in rv spot, fishing in freshwater lakes, boat ramp for salt water fishing, multiple lakes for canoes on additional property 1/2 mile away , nature walks , hunting, pickleball, pet friendly ,quiet peacefull, safe, secure looking for long term guest

14. Waldo RV Park

100%

(1)

48mi from Jacksonville · 167 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Waldo RV Park, conveniently situated at 16258 Northeast US Highway 301 in Waldo, Florida 32694. We're thrilled to offer you a fantastic experience with a range of thrilling dirtbike motocross activities in the vicinity. Our park is equipped with various amenities, including a bathhouse, a scenic lake, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly options for your convenience.

Camper favorites near Jacksonville

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Grace Haven Homestead

100%

(9)

38mi from Jacksonville · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Grace Haven Homestead, a tranquil escape and community gathering place in North Florida. As a retreat center, we will host families, youth groups, camps, and more, providing a peaceful refuge to reconnect with nature and each other. During your stay with us you will get to connect with many beautiful animals, including exotics like foxes, emus, and kinkajous. We are new, this is why our pricing is so cheap for our lodging. We want you to have every reason to come and experience this so you can leave us wonderful reviews and spread the word about our place. Hope to see you soon Accommodations: RV Rentals: Select from our range of fully-equipped RVs for a comfortable stay. Primitive Camping: Set up your tent and relish a back-to-nature camping experience beneath the stars. Activities: Animal Encounters: Immerse yourself in close and personal interactions with various animals, including several exotics. ATV Rentals: Embark on your own ATV adventure to explore our vast property. Shooting Range: Hone your aim and engage in some target practice at our shooting range. Outdoor Speakers: Unwind and enjoy music or podcasts in our outdoor seating area. Additional Amenities: Seating and Cooking Area: Gather around the fire pit or picnic tables for a delightful meal with friends and family. Scenic Views: Marvel at the beauty of the surrounding countryside and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Whether you're in search of a quiet retreat or an adventurous getaway, our retreat center caters to all preferences. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of our property, creating lasting memories with us.

Molasses Junction Stables

100%

(1)

35mi from Jacksonville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Rustic 3-Acre Farm stay Near Historic Downtown Welcome to Saint Augustine! Our peaceful 3-acre farm, just a 15-minute drive from charming historic downtown and the beautiful nearby beaches. Our rustic property offers the perfect and affordable home base to park your camper or boat, 20 minutes from Riverdale Park and boat ramp for access to the beautiful St Johns River. Enjoy the privacy of a gated entrance, easy access with plenty of room to maneuver, and wide-open rural views in every direction. As night falls, relax under a blanket of brilliant stars — a true country experience you won’t forget. Inquire for details and accomadations. Thanks for reading.

St. John's Campground

83%

(12)

50mi from Jacksonville · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to St. John's Campground, where nature meets convenience and comfort. Enjoy shaded lots, a pool, hot showers, and laundry. Stay connected with Wi-Fi and dine outdoors at our picnic tables. Explore fishing spots along St. Johns River and more. Visit St. Augustine and Crescent Beach just 30 mins away. Drive an hour to Daytona, Jacksonville, Gainesville, or Silver Springs. Nearby, enjoy Palatka Blue Crab and Azalea Festivals. Golf and a race track are 2.5 miles away. Experience nature, comfort, and adventure at St. John's Campground.

Ichiban rv club

17mi from Jacksonville · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

1 uncovered RV spot, 1 covered rv spot and 1 rv spot with a rv already in it for rent, all spread out away from each other, full hookups for rv, gravel in rv spot, fishing in freshwater lakes, boat ramp for salt water fishing, multiple lakes for canoes on additional property 1/2 mile away , nature walks , hunting, pickleball, pet friendly ,quiet peacefull, safe, secure looking for long term guest

Waldo RV Park

100%

(1)

48mi from Jacksonville · 167 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Waldo RV Park, conveniently situated at 16258 Northeast US Highway 301 in Waldo, Florida 32694. We're thrilled to offer you a fantastic experience with a range of thrilling dirtbike motocross activities in the vicinity. Our park is equipped with various amenities, including a bathhouse, a scenic lake, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly options for your convenience.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

T

Tom

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Lodge at Hartley Oaks

It is a big campground (50+ acres) with a small campground feel. It wasn't crowded when we were there and it was very quiet and beautiful. Good options for tent sites in a grassy field or under big oak trees. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. Would definitely stay there again.

T

Tom

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Lodge at Hartley Oaks

Beautiful and quiet. Hosts were great. Good options for tent sites in a grassy field or under the oak trees. We stayed in the grassy field since it had been raining and we wanted to avoid the sand and mud. Only there for 1 night but it was perfect for us. Would definitely go back.

h

heather

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wooded areas in a horse pasture

Perfect! Quiet, easy to get to, and very convenient. Thank you! Will definitely keep this spot in mind for returning.

S

Sue

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

7 nights at Celestial Acres

I highly recommend celestial acres. I’ve been staying on the Venus site and I loved it so much. I booked a couple extra days.. Jen is absolutely a phenomenal host and her farm is absolutely beautiful. She’s very friendly and gives great recommendations for things to do and places to eat. It’s very close to Saint Augustine,, yet you feel like you’re far away from the city! My dog and I loved meeting the animals as well, especially Hickory, the horse!

R

Rudy

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

28 nights at Wooded areas in a horse pasture

Gayle’s horse farm is beautiful, clean, and safe . The property is spacious, secluded and gated. The amenities are: A very clean port potty that is cleaned very often and an outdoor shower that provides starry skies and hot water Gayle is very hands off, and respects privacy. I have been to quite a few places where the host could be a bit intrusive. It’s surrounded by swamp lands, where you can gaze at heals, eagles and owls as well as the occasional critter. About 15 minutes away from beach, casino, shopping and restaurants galore, yet tucked away from it all, in case you want to unwind . I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys peace and solitude with beautiful surroundings and safe environment Rudy D

M

Marie

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Filly's Place

Filly’s Place was very nice. Brian was very accommodating. Forgot my electric strip he found us one. It was really cold colder than what we expected it to be so we left early. Brian offered us to return anytime on him. That was very nice. I would recommend Filly’s Place any time. Marie Roby

M

Marilyn

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wooded areas in a horse pasture

Definitely would stay again! Our host was very kind. The facilities were the cleanest ever. We left a night early, but only because the temperature was dropping rapidly and we weren't tent camping in 40 degree weather! Lots of horses, and Mei Mei (the doggo) was sweet :)

K

Kristian

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Wooded areas in a horse pasture

Very pleasant stay. Everything went very uncomplicated. 100% recommend. Thanks a lot.

A

Adam

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Lodge at Hartley Oaks

Been there many times in both tent and camper. Always a pleasure and peaceful!

Eliza

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blackwater River Camp

One of the BEST sites I’ve found through Hipcamp!!!! There was no shortage of things to do on the property itself, but as other reviews have mentioned, there are plenty of nature activities all within short driving distance. Host was great, facilities had everything I needed and in working order. I will definitely be back.

S

Skip

November 2025

39 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Filly's Place

Brian was very helpful and took the time to show us everything about the property. We will definitely return to this Beautiful property!

J

Joe

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blackwater River Camp

Stayed 2 nights. Camping with tents. At the time of this review, there was a drought, so the river was extremely low. Property was very well kept, clean, and a great central location if you don’t want to be too far away from everything. Hopefully next time the rain has raised the river so we could do the full runs, up and down stream. The water was nice and cool, great for the warmer days we had in November. We will definitely be returning. Great site.

Jennifer

November 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Filly's Place

Brian’s property was a great spot for us! He greeted us and lead us to our spot and then we found out his wife Phyllis bakes muffins and cookies so we bought some muffins for breakfast. They were delicious! We had a problem with our RV not starting on the morning we were supposed to leave and Brian was extremely helpful in giving us assistance with finding a mechanic that could help us. Brian even towed our bus to the repair shop with his tractor! We were very grateful and would definitely recommend this property because of its safe location and the wonderful people who own it. Great Hipcamp experience!

William

November 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Celestial Acres

Great Stay…. Host is awesome with communications. When I arrived, Jen came out to greet me. She shared some of the places in town to eat and things to do. Finding the place was very easy, although I encourage you to come in while the sun is up…. It gets really dark. The sky is wonderfully dark at night. I thought I saw shooting stars, but based on the news it was a Chinese rocket falling…. Regardless, the dark skies made the star gazing extraordinary. The place is about 20 minutes from St. Augustine, which was perfect for me. The Venus camping spot is very close to the road, but there was no traffic to speak of all night on that road. The Venus camping spot could hold my 20 foot truck, but I wouldn’t try fitting in a rig any bigger. The animals are all friendly and Jen encouraged me to pet them. She did share to pet the pigs on the top of their heads, least the pigs think I am giving them some food. 😊 Besides the chickens, there were lots of birds, including some miniature hummingbirds, that visited. I will absolutely be back! Great place, great host.

R

Robert

November 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Hartley Oaks

I loved this place as back a couple of miles from the main road, one of the quietest places I’ve stayed at. Lots of space for large venues. Nothing going on while I was there which was nice. Would definitely come back.

E

Evan

November 2025

Tent

4 nights at Filly's Place

I really enjoyed my time camping here. They have a peaceful property with beautiful horses and a nice reservoir that geese and other birds stop at. The stars at night are clear to see. Brian and his wife were very helpful and knowledgeable about everything to do with camping and RV life.

C

Crystal

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blackwater River Camp

Very private, very remote, lovely waterfront property

E

Eric M.

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blackwater River Camp

This is a great place for children and rv camping. Lots of toys, cars, and trucks for the kids to play with. The St. Mary's river borders the property and is accessible for wading, swimming, and fishing. The property itself is very nice with some secluded spots if you want to do some primitive tent camping. There are port-o-let style toilets with a sink and access to potable water.

E

Edward

November 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blackwater River Camp

Great location for a weekend camp. We were in a 23' TT and used the 30 amp service and water with no problems. CG is clean and stocked with toys to keep the grandkids busy. St Mary's was VERY low water. No paddling this weekend. Will definitely be back. Great job M ! Happy Campers

G

Grace

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Lodge at Hartley Oaks

Beautiful land and very nice host! Definitely would recommend

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping near Jacksonville guide

Where to go

Along St. Johns River

The mighty St. John’s River meets the Atlantic just east of Jacksonville and flows south of the city, affording plenty of options for riverside camping, fishing, hiking, and paddling. Closer to the city, birders won’t want to miss the Huguenot Memorial Park, a prime spot on the Great Florida Birding Trail, while history buffs can explore Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park and the Kingsley Plantation.

Northeast Atlantic Coast

Miles of white-sand beaches lie within a short drive of Jacksonville, where you can swim, surf, and enjoy water sports. At the mouth of the St Johns River, Hanna Park has a surf beach, fishing lake, and miles of hiking and biking trails, plus camping and cabin rentals. Further north, you can horseback ride on the beach and camp right on the sand at Amelia Island State Park.

Osceola National Forest

For a change of scenery, head inland to explore the wild woodlands of Osceola National Forest. The forest not only has RV and tent campgrounds with easy access to hiking, OHV, and horseback riding trails, but self-sufficient campers can also venture into the backcountry for dispersed camping.

When to go

Summertime is fun in Jacksonville, when visitors flock to the lakes, rivers, and beaches, and highs climb over 90°F. Jax’s far-north location means that it rarely gets hit by hurricane season (expect some summer thunderstorms nonetheless), and it’s still hot enough to hit the beach through spring and early fall. In winter, the mild weather and diminishing crowds can be a bonus for campers, but don’t expect the balmy temperatures of the south.