The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Merritt Island, Florida

Bringing your pet along to Merritt Island? You’re in luck—this area welcomes furry companions, with over 290 pet-friendly campsites to choose from. Prices start at $15 a night, though most spots land around $50. Expect showers, allowed campfires, and plenty of space for your dog to roam. You’ll find top-rated sites like Camp Wild Fern (146 reviews), Forever Young Farm (136 reviews), and Camp Shiloh (98 reviews). Wildlife-watching is a given—expect herons, otters, maybe even a rocket launch in the distance. Bring a fishing rod, or lace up for a hike. trash bins are easy to find, and you’ll rarely be more than a short walk from a hot shower. Locals know: sunrise here is worth setting an early alarm.

94% (1K) • 190 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Merritt Island

Tranquil Space Coast Retreat

1. Tranquil Space Coast Retreat

100%

(1)

15mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

Relax in the cozy sitting area beneath a canopy of twinkling lights at this spacious, wooded site—less than 10 minutes from the beach! The site sits on approximately 0.2 acres, located on a private lot behind our home, and includes a 16' x 48' asphalt-gravel pad next to full hook-ups. Additional privacy fencing is being installed in January to separate the site from the rest of the property, so it will soon be enclosed on three sides (the driveway to the back of the property is on the fourth). Photos will be updated once the fence is completed. In the meantime, there are plenty of trees on the site which do provide some privacy. Along with plenty of beautiful trees for shade, the site includes its own private sitting area with a fire pit and hammocks, a picnic table, and a storage shed with beach supplies for guest use. There is plenty of room to pull in and park an RV of just about any size. Conveniently located 1.3 miles from a shopping plaza with a Publix, Bealls Outlet, and several restaurants. It’s about 2 minutes from the bridge to the beach and roughly an hour from Orlando attractions. This is a new site/listing, so I will be adding more details as needed. If you have any questions, please ask! Disclaimer: There are train tracks and an airport nearby. While we've grown to love the sound of the train and watching planes fly overhead (including the occasional military jet), we understand it may not be for everyone. There is very little “traffic” during nighttime and early morning hours, but if you are sensitive to noise or require complete silence to sleep, this may not be the optimal site for you.

Full hookups

from

$63

/ night

The Fawn Trial Sanctuary

2. The Fawn Trial Sanctuary

18mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

497 Fawn Trail is a beautifully positioned lot tucked inside the highly desirable The Great Outdoors RV & Golf Resort (TGO) in Titusville. Located on a quiet, low-traffic street, this property offers a peaceful, park-like setting with mature trees providing natural shade and privacy. This oversized lot features: • Extra-long driveway with room for a large coach, two vehicles, and a golf cart • Lush, established landscaping with palms and trees • Small storage shed • Walk path leading to a charming circular patio area • Ample space for outdoor living and entertaining

Full hookups

from

$65

/ night

Melbourne Beach RV Retreat

3. Melbourne Beach RV Retreat

20mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

Welcome to your home base in beautiful Melbourne Beach, located inside the gated Outdoor Resorts Association community. This cleared, flat RV site accommodates rigs up to 40 feet and offers easy pull-in access for a stress-free arrival. Whether you’re here for beach days, fishing, rocket launches, or simply relaxing under the Florida sun, this location puts you right in the middle of it all. Outdoor Resorts is a private, well-maintained community offering a relaxed coastal atmosphere and convenient access to the Atlantic Ocean just a short walk away. Guests can enjoy peaceful beach mornings, stunning sunrises, and evening strolls along the shore. The area is also known for excellent fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and seasonal sea turtle nesting. You’ll be just minutes from Sebastian Inlet, local restaurants, and everything the Space Coast has to offer — including world-famous rocket launches visible from the beach. If you’re looking for a clean, simple, beachside RV site inside a secure and welcoming resort community, this is your spot.

Full hookups

from

$65

/ night

Turtle Cove Space Coast

4. Turtle Cove Space Coast

100%

(9)

34mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

Immerse yourself in the excitement of rocket launches at our unique Hipcamp site near Cape Canaveral, Florida. Located just minutes away from the launch pads, our property offers an unparalleled vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring spectacles of space exploration. Whether you're an avid space enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable getaway, our site provides the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Amenities: WiFi: Stay connected with our reliable high-speed internet, perfect for sharing your launch experiences in real-time or working remotely amidst the serene surroundings. Washer and Dryer: Enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry facilities, ensuring you have fresh clothes for your entire stay. Spacious Campsites: Choose from a variety of campsite options, each offering ample space, privacy, and easy access to amenities. Fire Pits: Relax and unwind by the fire under the stars, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends along for the adventure; our site is pet-friendly and offers plenty of space for them to explore. Activities: Rocket Launch Viewing: Experience the thrill of watching rocket launches up close from the comfort of your campsite. Nature Trails: Explore nearby trails and enjoy the natural beauty of Florida's coastal landscapes. Fishing and Boating: Take advantage of the nearby waterways for a day of fishing or boating. Bird Watching: Spot a variety of local bird species in the diverse habitats surrounding the property. Nearby Attractions: Kennedy Space Center: A must-visit for space enthusiasts, offering interactive exhibits, tours, and the chance to learn about NASA's history and future missions. Cocoa Beach: Just a short drive away, enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at one of Florida's most famous beaches. Local Dining and Shopping: Discover a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops in the charming nearby towns. Booking Information: Reserve your spot today to secure a front-row seat to the wonders of space exploration. Whether you're camping under the stars or enjoying the comforts of your RV, our site offers an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of rocket launches with the tranquility of nature. Join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure at Cape Canaveral. Book your stay now and get ready to witness history in the making!

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$45

/ night

Hippie Haux

5. Hippie Haux

83%

(3)

37mi from Merritt Island · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Hippie Haux – A Quiet Forest Spot Near the Coast Hippie Haux sits on about five acres of mixed oak forest with a few soft, rolling clearings. It’s tucked right near town but feels quiet and tucked away, and you’re only about 45 minutes from the beach. The land has a relaxed, rustic feel—simple, natural, and easy to settle into. The camping area isn’t divided into marked sites. Instead, there’s an open clearing where you can choose your own spot. There’s room for roughly 6–8 setups, so it works well for tents, car camping, vans, hammocks, and pop-ups. I also have a small trailer available to rent if you’d like something more comfortable, and there’s a raised platform you can set up on as well. You’ll find the basic comforts here: a fire pit, picnic tables, drinking water, electricity, a compost toilet, and an outdoor shower with hot water. There’s a simple communal kitchen too, plus easy parking. Fires are allowed as long as someone stays with them. Pets and kids are welcome. The land gets regular visits from deer, owls, hawks, armadillos, squirrels, and the occasional curious bunny. At night, the sky opens up enough for great stargazing. There’s a small herbal garden on site, and a yoga deck tucked under the trees for morning stretches or a quiet sit in nature. I usually have fresh farm eggs available as well. If you’re looking for something low-key, close to nature, and not overly manicured, this spot tends to be a good fit. It works for solo campers wanting some peace, families who want room for kids to explore, and anyone passing through on their way to the coast or springs. The energy of the land is gentle and grounding—simple, earthy, and easy to relax into.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Bringing your pet along to Merritt Island? You’re in luck—this area welcomes furry companions, with over 290 pet-friendly campsites to choose from. Prices start at $15 a night, though most spots land around $50. Expect showers, allowed campfires, and plenty of space for your dog to roam. You’ll find top-rated sites like Camp Wild Fern (146 reviews), Forever Young Farm (136 reviews), and Camp Shiloh (98 reviews). Wildlife-watching is a given—expect herons, otters, maybe even a rocket launch in the distance. Bring a fishing rod, or lace up for a hike. trash bins are easy to find, and you’ll rarely be more than a short walk from a hot shower. Locals know: sunrise here is worth setting an early alarm.

94% (1K) • 190 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Merritt Island

Tranquil Space Coast Retreat

1. Tranquil Space Coast Retreat

100%

(1)

15mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

Relax in the cozy sitting area beneath a canopy of twinkling lights at this spacious, wooded site—less than 10 minutes from the beach! The site sits on approximately 0.2 acres, located on a private lot behind our home, and includes a 16' x 48' asphalt-gravel pad next to full hook-ups. Additional privacy fencing is being installed in January to separate the site from the rest of the property, so it will soon be enclosed on three sides (the driveway to the back of the property is on the fourth). Photos will be updated once the fence is completed. In the meantime, there are plenty of trees on the site which do provide some privacy. Along with plenty of beautiful trees for shade, the site includes its own private sitting area with a fire pit and hammocks, a picnic table, and a storage shed with beach supplies for guest use. There is plenty of room to pull in and park an RV of just about any size. Conveniently located 1.3 miles from a shopping plaza with a Publix, Bealls Outlet, and several restaurants. It’s about 2 minutes from the bridge to the beach and roughly an hour from Orlando attractions. This is a new site/listing, so I will be adding more details as needed. If you have any questions, please ask! Disclaimer: There are train tracks and an airport nearby. While we've grown to love the sound of the train and watching planes fly overhead (including the occasional military jet), we understand it may not be for everyone. There is very little “traffic” during nighttime and early morning hours, but if you are sensitive to noise or require complete silence to sleep, this may not be the optimal site for you.

Full hookups

from

$63

/ night

The Fawn Trial Sanctuary

2. The Fawn Trial Sanctuary

18mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

497 Fawn Trail is a beautifully positioned lot tucked inside the highly desirable The Great Outdoors RV & Golf Resort (TGO) in Titusville. Located on a quiet, low-traffic street, this property offers a peaceful, park-like setting with mature trees providing natural shade and privacy. This oversized lot features: • Extra-long driveway with room for a large coach, two vehicles, and a golf cart • Lush, established landscaping with palms and trees • Small storage shed • Walk path leading to a charming circular patio area • Ample space for outdoor living and entertaining

Full hookups

from

$65

/ night

Melbourne Beach RV Retreat

3. Melbourne Beach RV Retreat

20mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

Welcome to your home base in beautiful Melbourne Beach, located inside the gated Outdoor Resorts Association community. This cleared, flat RV site accommodates rigs up to 40 feet and offers easy pull-in access for a stress-free arrival. Whether you’re here for beach days, fishing, rocket launches, or simply relaxing under the Florida sun, this location puts you right in the middle of it all. Outdoor Resorts is a private, well-maintained community offering a relaxed coastal atmosphere and convenient access to the Atlantic Ocean just a short walk away. Guests can enjoy peaceful beach mornings, stunning sunrises, and evening strolls along the shore. The area is also known for excellent fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and seasonal sea turtle nesting. You’ll be just minutes from Sebastian Inlet, local restaurants, and everything the Space Coast has to offer — including world-famous rocket launches visible from the beach. If you’re looking for a clean, simple, beachside RV site inside a secure and welcoming resort community, this is your spot.

Full hookups

from

$65

/ night

Turtle Cove Space Coast

4. Turtle Cove Space Coast

100%

(9)

34mi from Merritt Island · 1 site

Immerse yourself in the excitement of rocket launches at our unique Hipcamp site near Cape Canaveral, Florida. Located just minutes away from the launch pads, our property offers an unparalleled vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring spectacles of space exploration. Whether you're an avid space enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable getaway, our site provides the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Amenities: WiFi: Stay connected with our reliable high-speed internet, perfect for sharing your launch experiences in real-time or working remotely amidst the serene surroundings. Washer and Dryer: Enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry facilities, ensuring you have fresh clothes for your entire stay. Spacious Campsites: Choose from a variety of campsite options, each offering ample space, privacy, and easy access to amenities. Fire Pits: Relax and unwind by the fire under the stars, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. Pet-Friendly: Bring your furry friends along for the adventure; our site is pet-friendly and offers plenty of space for them to explore. Activities: Rocket Launch Viewing: Experience the thrill of watching rocket launches up close from the comfort of your campsite. Nature Trails: Explore nearby trails and enjoy the natural beauty of Florida's coastal landscapes. Fishing and Boating: Take advantage of the nearby waterways for a day of fishing or boating. Bird Watching: Spot a variety of local bird species in the diverse habitats surrounding the property. Nearby Attractions: Kennedy Space Center: A must-visit for space enthusiasts, offering interactive exhibits, tours, and the chance to learn about NASA's history and future missions. Cocoa Beach: Just a short drive away, enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at one of Florida's most famous beaches. Local Dining and Shopping: Discover a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops in the charming nearby towns. Booking Information: Reserve your spot today to secure a front-row seat to the wonders of space exploration. Whether you're camping under the stars or enjoying the comforts of your RV, our site offers an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of rocket launches with the tranquility of nature. Join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure at Cape Canaveral. Book your stay now and get ready to witness history in the making!

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$45

/ night

Hippie Haux

5. Hippie Haux

83%

(3)

37mi from Merritt Island · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Hippie Haux – A Quiet Forest Spot Near the Coast Hippie Haux sits on about five acres of mixed oak forest with a few soft, rolling clearings. It’s tucked right near town but feels quiet and tucked away, and you’re only about 45 minutes from the beach. The land has a relaxed, rustic feel—simple, natural, and easy to settle into. The camping area isn’t divided into marked sites. Instead, there’s an open clearing where you can choose your own spot. There’s room for roughly 6–8 setups, so it works well for tents, car camping, vans, hammocks, and pop-ups. I also have a small trailer available to rent if you’d like something more comfortable, and there’s a raised platform you can set up on as well. You’ll find the basic comforts here: a fire pit, picnic tables, drinking water, electricity, a compost toilet, and an outdoor shower with hot water. There’s a simple communal kitchen too, plus easy parking. Fires are allowed as long as someone stays with them. Pets and kids are welcome. The land gets regular visits from deer, owls, hawks, armadillos, squirrels, and the occasional curious bunny. At night, the sky opens up enough for great stargazing. There’s a small herbal garden on site, and a yoga deck tucked under the trees for morning stretches or a quiet sit in nature. I usually have fresh farm eggs available as well. If you’re looking for something low-key, close to nature, and not overly manicured, this spot tends to be a good fit. It works for solo campers wanting some peace, families who want room for kids to explore, and anyone passing through on their way to the coast or springs. The energy of the land is gentle and grounding—simple, earthy, and easy to relax into.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Nick

3 weeks ago

11 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hippie Haux

The site is very nice and the amenities are top notch I was surprised great for a weekend getaway. Plenty of nearby trails and parks to check out. The host for very welcoming and gracious.

D

Donna

January 2026

27 ft Class C

2 nights at Tranquil Space Coast Retreat

There was a little plane and train noise, if that kind of bothers you, but it did not bother us. The site was level and accommodated our 13’ high rig. It was a little tight going through the gate. The site was clean. There was a cute sitting area with hanging chairs. We would visit again. Thanks, Francine.

Moth

December 2025

13 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Hippie Haux

Loved staying here. You're surrounded by trees and really feel like you're in nature. Ana and her family were super accommodating. Would love to come back

E

Elizabeth

March 2025

37 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Turtle Cove Space Coast

Drew & Juliet were so welcoming. Turtle cove is a nice quiet spot worth staying at. HIGHLY recommend!

K

Ken

February 2025

12 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Turtle Cove Space Coast

Drew was an excellent host, he and his wife were friendly, accommodating, and made an effort to make my stay pleasant. I will stay here again and would definitely refere a friend. K

R

Richard

January 2025

27 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Turtle Cove Space Coast

We were sort of camped in between his house and garage, but other than that, it was great. The hosts are super friendly. And they tolerated our dogs without a problem. We had 50 amp electtic and water hookups and they let us drain our gray water into their sandy yard. This allowed us to take showers in our camper. They also allowd us to use their outside washer and dryer and their barbecue grill. If you stay here with dogs, be sure to bag their poo. We found some poo left by other dogs in their yard, which we picked up. Drew and his wife gave us some oranges and grapes as well. They were delicious.

C

Cindy

January 2025

18 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Turtle Cove Space Coast

Very nice people. Parking with hook ups is great. Watched a rocket , from Cape Canaveral going up.

C

Cheryl

December 2024

19 ft Class B

1 night at Turtle Cove Space Coast

Remote - easy to get to and park for a class B - I could see large rigs being challenged to back in. Drew and his wife are very pleasant. Great quiet location, easy in and easy out- great for road warriors seeking a quiet night of rest.