The best pets off leash camping near Panama City

·

Panama City, Florida, is infamous for being a Spring Break destination. But like many Florida locales, Panama City has a breadth to offer beyond its association with rowdy coeds; in fact, this Florida Panhandle town is a gateway to a surprisingly large stretch of beaches and grassy natural areas that cater to both RV campers and tent campers. Plus, this part of Florida offers some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the entire country—many of which aren’t very crowded, especially in the offseason.

98% (131)

Top-rated campgrounds near Panama City

3. Bayside Bungalow

100%
(18)
37mi from Panama City · 1 site · RV
BAY VIEWS!! PET FRIENDLY!! ESCAPE TO PARADISE!! Come by and stay while at Bayside Bungalow, 1 of 12 private lots in a charming RV subdivision, conveniently located on 30A along Saint Joseph’s Bay between Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas in Florida’s panhandle. This “full service” RV lot includes 50 & 30 amp electrical service, sewer hookup, trash service, and conveniently located ice machine. Enjoy the sun, relax, and dine in the screened lanai complete with a table/chairs & sofa/sitting chairs for your comfort. A perfect setting for watching the beautiful Gulf Coast sunset without the hassle of bugs. Also new in 2024--corn hole boards and kayak for your use! Fishermen, boaters, kayakers, and the alike-- bring your toys, boats, and gear to explore St Joseph's Bay and all it has to offer! Dubbed the "Forgotten Coast" Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas are hidden treasures tucked away along the pristine gulf coast. Quiet, quaint, and so laid back--you'll never want to leave! This unique coastal area boasts of pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Bring your favorite companion to the pet friendly beaches, enjoy beach horseback riding, and end the day relaxing with a beach bonfire. Port Saint Joe is one of the most charming beach communities on Florida's Forgotten Coast! Make time to explore the historic port and all it has to offer including the lighthouse, marina, pickle ball courts, dining, live music, shopping and more! Cape San Blas is a stunning coastal town offering a plethora of unique beaches, Salinas Park with pickle ball courts and horseback riding, and the best mom & pop restaurants and shops to enjoy. Other nearby historic coastal towns to explore include Apalachicola, Saint George Island and Mexico Beach.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$85
 / night

8. Iliana Acres Primitive Campsite

37mi from Panama City · 2 sites · Tents
Iliana Acres is nestled on nearly 10 acres of tree-surrounded land in Alford, FL. Our primitive campsite offers the perfect escape without being too far off the beaten path. Enjoy total seclusion with no prying eyes, like staying in your own private park. The heart of the property is a spacious 3-acre field, with a hiking trail leading you through the untouched woods for a deeper nature experience. This rustic, off-the-grid spot offers no electricity, no running water—just you and the great outdoors. Ideal for those seeking an a safe backcountry adventure. Perfect for car campers and tent enthusiasts. Conveniently located off of Hwy 231, just down the road from the Kountry Candy Store, where you can grab some snacks and drinks before heading back to camp. If you're looking for more adventure, Iliana Acres is just: - 4 miles from Compass Lake, where you can swim, dp water sports, ride ATVs, and enjoy a delicious meal - 14.5 miles from Ecofina Creek, a local favorite for paddling and swimming - 15 miles from Falling Waters State Park, which features Florida's tallest waterfall - 20 miles from Florida Caverns State Park, home to the only air-filled caves in the state that you can tour - 20 miles from Spring Creek, great for canoeing and tubing - 1 hour from the stunning shores of Panama City Beach, an excellent location for an exciting day trip Whether you're here to disconnect or explore nearby attractions, this rugged retreat is perfect for adventurous souls seeking peace and nature. Notes: - We recommend an SUV or truck to navigate the dirt road leading to this hidden gem. All wheel drive would be ideal, especially in rainy conditions! That said, we don't have a 4x4 and we manage to get by. - You would be able to get a small camper on the land if you have a powerful vehicle, but we recommend you stick with car or tent camping to keep it simple. - Keep in mind, this is a rural location, so you may occasionally hear neighbors firing weapons in the distance. While it's not common, it can happen from time to time. (Especially during hunting season.) - You may come across wildlife during your stay. While issues and encounters with dangerous animals are extremely rare, it's always a good idea to be prepared by bringing basic first aid supplies and protective items like bear spray. - There is a Dollar General less than a mile away for your basic needs. - There are a handful of restaurants in town if you don't want to cook. Feel free to ask us for recommendations! - First-time campers are always welcome! If you need assistance setting up a tent or starting a fire, we're happy to help, free of charge. Let us make your camping experience easy and enjoyable. - This is an intimate camping spot for small groups, not a party location. The total number of people on the property must not exceed the number of guests booked. Please do not host or invite additional visitors for large gatherings. You are expected to keep noise levels reasonably low to respect the wildlife and nearby residents.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

12. It's Creek Time - Howard Creek

100%
(9)
40mi from Panama City · 1 site · Tent, RV
One acre with an area of 80x120 fenced in the eclectic fishing community of Howard Creek. DOG FRIENDLY! You can put your boat in just 5 minutes away. Howard Creek is located just 20 minutes from the St Joe Bay for saltwater fishing or access to the Gulf of Mexico, 15 minutes from the Intracoastal waterway access at White City, FL and 35 minutes from the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka, FL. Flat site partially tucked behind some trees and set back 80 feet off of the sand street. Well water hookup, septic capabilities with macerator (lav pump), electric with 30 and 50 amp at the box on the pole (approx. 100 feet from primary parking spot) or 30 amp at the parking spot, corner of pole barn. COLD water shower and sink available. There is a pole barn on the property with our camper stored under it. You're welcome to use the remaining space under the pole barn for your leisure, approximately 20x35 ft. We're dog people! Your dogs are welcome but must supervised while you're away from the property. We have some wonderful neighbors and do not want to disturb them. There are security cameras present on the property. This is a wonderful "Forgotten Coast" region of the Florida panhandle with so much to see and do within minutes. This area took a direct hit from Hurricane Michael in 2018 and has worked hard at recovery, with so much rebuilding and growth over the last few years. Howard Creek is an eclectic little fishing community made up of a variety of residents from weekend fishers, summer or winter visitors and full time residents. This little golf cart community offers a small general store, a small community church, a volunteer fire department and two landings to put your boat in. Just 20 minutes from the quaint little beach town of Port Saint Joe, Florida. PSJ is known for its warm, welcoming people, old world Florida feel, dog-friendly beaches, Cape San Blas and Indian Pass. Many locally owned wonderful restaurants, bakeries and shops. It's easy to find a charter out of PSJ if you're interested in fishing! If you leave our site and head north, you're just 35 minutes from the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka; some gorgeous old Florida natural views and fresh water fishing; bream, large mouth bass, crappie, shellcracker and catfish.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

13. Glamping In Paradise

100%
(8)
43mi from Panama City · 1 site · Lodging
Decorated for December Holidays! Stay cozy and warm in the winter inside our glamping tent with an electric fireplace! (We have a website, but I don't think I can list it here. A google search "Paradise Gardens Westville Florida" will help with that). Elevated on a 20x28 wood deck, surrounded by lush landscaping and many extras, this campsite is less than an hour from lakes, rivers, natural springs, and the famous Emerald Coast. Roam the small fruit and vegetable gardens, where, depending on the season, you can pick grapes and other berries, lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit, or vegetables like tomatoes, okra, peppers, or squash. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape for two or a family adventure, this glamping haven provides something for everyone. Roast marshmallows over the fire pit, relax in a hammock swing, grill your favorite meal on the bbq, or lay back in the bell tent comfy queen bed while enjoying the AC. If you are looking for an experience, and not just some patch of dirt to camp on, Paradise Gardens is for you. Glamping is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without having the hassle of hauling your own gear around. Walk the 25 acres amongst some of the oldest pine trees in Northwest Florida. Take the diameter of a pine tree and multiply by 5 and that tells you the approximate age. Given that some of these trees are between 3 and 5 feet wide, know that when they were saplings, Thomas Edison invented his light bulb, Abraham Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address, and some are old enough to have been there when Jefferson penned the draft of the Declaration of Independence. Beyond the campsite, you can explore the nearby white sand beaches. See the natural springs of Ponce DeLeon, less than 15 minutes away. Or do other activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking. Amenities: 16.4 foot diameter furnished bell tent on a 20x28 elevated wooden deck (3 steps). Queen bed plus couch and small cot, sleeps 2 adults and 2 children. Mini-Fridge 1.6cf, AC, fan, coffee maker, charging port outlets, picnic table, lots of custom lighting, bbq grill, fire pit, outdoor sink, grilling utensils, 2 portable toilet buildings, & outdoor wood shower stall where you can take a hot shower.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$62
 / night

14. Turtle Whisperer Houseboat

43mi from Panama City · 1 site · Lodging
I am offering short-term rentals of my houseboat this season. It is located on the Apalachicola River, about 1 mile upstream of Neal Landing near Blountstown, and is only accessible by motorboat or paddle vessel. The houseboat is in a fixed location and does not move. It is furnished with two beds, a futon, and a loft for extra sleeping space, and there is a generator for power. This is a primitive camp, not a luxury resort stay. You must bring gasoline for the generator if you want power. The beds have hygienic mattress covers, but you should bring your own sleeping bag and pillow cover. You can relieve yourself at the boat ramp porta-potty (~1 mile away) or in the composting camp toilet out back. You must bring bottled drinking water or a Sawyer filter for river water. There is a propane stove/oven, a charcoal grill, and a fire pit out front if you bring wood or collect it. An outside propane instant hot water heater with a shower head and privacy screen is available if you need to get clean and don’t want to hop in the river. My goal is to offer a unique experience and provide a code to the door for the agreed time frame, not to provide every convenience. I would charge more for each stay if that were the case because it would be a real challenge for me to get to the houseboat and keep it stocked. If you come prepared for a camping trip, you will have a great time; if you come with nothing, you probably will not. This is my first time renting it out, so all the logistics are not fully sorted yet. I’m willing to talk with potential guests to see if we can work something out if additional amenities or comforts are required. This is an awesome camp for a hunting or fishing weekend, with enough room for a few friends to relax and enjoy some beers in the evening. This is not a random cash-grab rental property. This is my personal camp retreat, and I only want to share it with people who will be respectful of it and the river. More photos coming soon.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night

Panama City, Florida, is infamous for being a Spring Break destination. But like many Florida locales, Panama City has a breadth to offer beyond its association with rowdy coeds; in fact, this Florida Panhandle town is a gateway to a surprisingly large stretch of beaches and grassy natural areas that cater to both RV campers and tent campers. Plus, this part of Florida offers some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the entire country—many of which aren’t very crowded, especially in the offseason.

98% (131)

Top-rated campgrounds near Panama City

3. Bayside Bungalow

100%
(18)
37mi from Panama City · 1 site · RV
BAY VIEWS!! PET FRIENDLY!! ESCAPE TO PARADISE!! Come by and stay while at Bayside Bungalow, 1 of 12 private lots in a charming RV subdivision, conveniently located on 30A along Saint Joseph’s Bay between Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas in Florida’s panhandle. This “full service” RV lot includes 50 & 30 amp electrical service, sewer hookup, trash service, and conveniently located ice machine. Enjoy the sun, relax, and dine in the screened lanai complete with a table/chairs & sofa/sitting chairs for your comfort. A perfect setting for watching the beautiful Gulf Coast sunset without the hassle of bugs. Also new in 2024--corn hole boards and kayak for your use! Fishermen, boaters, kayakers, and the alike-- bring your toys, boats, and gear to explore St Joseph's Bay and all it has to offer! Dubbed the "Forgotten Coast" Port Saint Joe and Cape San Blas are hidden treasures tucked away along the pristine gulf coast. Quiet, quaint, and so laid back--you'll never want to leave! This unique coastal area boasts of pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Bring your favorite companion to the pet friendly beaches, enjoy beach horseback riding, and end the day relaxing with a beach bonfire. Port Saint Joe is one of the most charming beach communities on Florida's Forgotten Coast! Make time to explore the historic port and all it has to offer including the lighthouse, marina, pickle ball courts, dining, live music, shopping and more! Cape San Blas is a stunning coastal town offering a plethora of unique beaches, Salinas Park with pickle ball courts and horseback riding, and the best mom & pop restaurants and shops to enjoy. Other nearby historic coastal towns to explore include Apalachicola, Saint George Island and Mexico Beach.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$85
 / night

8. Iliana Acres Primitive Campsite

37mi from Panama City · 2 sites · Tents
Iliana Acres is nestled on nearly 10 acres of tree-surrounded land in Alford, FL. Our primitive campsite offers the perfect escape without being too far off the beaten path. Enjoy total seclusion with no prying eyes, like staying in your own private park. The heart of the property is a spacious 3-acre field, with a hiking trail leading you through the untouched woods for a deeper nature experience. This rustic, off-the-grid spot offers no electricity, no running water—just you and the great outdoors. Ideal for those seeking an a safe backcountry adventure. Perfect for car campers and tent enthusiasts. Conveniently located off of Hwy 231, just down the road from the Kountry Candy Store, where you can grab some snacks and drinks before heading back to camp. If you're looking for more adventure, Iliana Acres is just: - 4 miles from Compass Lake, where you can swim, dp water sports, ride ATVs, and enjoy a delicious meal - 14.5 miles from Ecofina Creek, a local favorite for paddling and swimming - 15 miles from Falling Waters State Park, which features Florida's tallest waterfall - 20 miles from Florida Caverns State Park, home to the only air-filled caves in the state that you can tour - 20 miles from Spring Creek, great for canoeing and tubing - 1 hour from the stunning shores of Panama City Beach, an excellent location for an exciting day trip Whether you're here to disconnect or explore nearby attractions, this rugged retreat is perfect for adventurous souls seeking peace and nature. Notes: - We recommend an SUV or truck to navigate the dirt road leading to this hidden gem. All wheel drive would be ideal, especially in rainy conditions! That said, we don't have a 4x4 and we manage to get by. - You would be able to get a small camper on the land if you have a powerful vehicle, but we recommend you stick with car or tent camping to keep it simple. - Keep in mind, this is a rural location, so you may occasionally hear neighbors firing weapons in the distance. While it's not common, it can happen from time to time. (Especially during hunting season.) - You may come across wildlife during your stay. While issues and encounters with dangerous animals are extremely rare, it's always a good idea to be prepared by bringing basic first aid supplies and protective items like bear spray. - There is a Dollar General less than a mile away for your basic needs. - There are a handful of restaurants in town if you don't want to cook. Feel free to ask us for recommendations! - First-time campers are always welcome! If you need assistance setting up a tent or starting a fire, we're happy to help, free of charge. Let us make your camping experience easy and enjoyable. - This is an intimate camping spot for small groups, not a party location. The total number of people on the property must not exceed the number of guests booked. Please do not host or invite additional visitors for large gatherings. You are expected to keep noise levels reasonably low to respect the wildlife and nearby residents.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

12. It's Creek Time - Howard Creek

100%
(9)
40mi from Panama City · 1 site · Tent, RV
One acre with an area of 80x120 fenced in the eclectic fishing community of Howard Creek. DOG FRIENDLY! You can put your boat in just 5 minutes away. Howard Creek is located just 20 minutes from the St Joe Bay for saltwater fishing or access to the Gulf of Mexico, 15 minutes from the Intracoastal waterway access at White City, FL and 35 minutes from the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka, FL. Flat site partially tucked behind some trees and set back 80 feet off of the sand street. Well water hookup, septic capabilities with macerator (lav pump), electric with 30 and 50 amp at the box on the pole (approx. 100 feet from primary parking spot) or 30 amp at the parking spot, corner of pole barn. COLD water shower and sink available. There is a pole barn on the property with our camper stored under it. You're welcome to use the remaining space under the pole barn for your leisure, approximately 20x35 ft. We're dog people! Your dogs are welcome but must supervised while you're away from the property. We have some wonderful neighbors and do not want to disturb them. There are security cameras present on the property. This is a wonderful "Forgotten Coast" region of the Florida panhandle with so much to see and do within minutes. This area took a direct hit from Hurricane Michael in 2018 and has worked hard at recovery, with so much rebuilding and growth over the last few years. Howard Creek is an eclectic little fishing community made up of a variety of residents from weekend fishers, summer or winter visitors and full time residents. This little golf cart community offers a small general store, a small community church, a volunteer fire department and two landings to put your boat in. Just 20 minutes from the quaint little beach town of Port Saint Joe, Florida. PSJ is known for its warm, welcoming people, old world Florida feel, dog-friendly beaches, Cape San Blas and Indian Pass. Many locally owned wonderful restaurants, bakeries and shops. It's easy to find a charter out of PSJ if you're interested in fishing! If you leave our site and head north, you're just 35 minutes from the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka; some gorgeous old Florida natural views and fresh water fishing; bream, large mouth bass, crappie, shellcracker and catfish.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

13. Glamping In Paradise

100%
(8)
43mi from Panama City · 1 site · Lodging
Decorated for December Holidays! Stay cozy and warm in the winter inside our glamping tent with an electric fireplace! (We have a website, but I don't think I can list it here. A google search "Paradise Gardens Westville Florida" will help with that). Elevated on a 20x28 wood deck, surrounded by lush landscaping and many extras, this campsite is less than an hour from lakes, rivers, natural springs, and the famous Emerald Coast. Roam the small fruit and vegetable gardens, where, depending on the season, you can pick grapes and other berries, lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit, or vegetables like tomatoes, okra, peppers, or squash. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape for two or a family adventure, this glamping haven provides something for everyone. Roast marshmallows over the fire pit, relax in a hammock swing, grill your favorite meal on the bbq, or lay back in the bell tent comfy queen bed while enjoying the AC. If you are looking for an experience, and not just some patch of dirt to camp on, Paradise Gardens is for you. Glamping is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without having the hassle of hauling your own gear around. Walk the 25 acres amongst some of the oldest pine trees in Northwest Florida. Take the diameter of a pine tree and multiply by 5 and that tells you the approximate age. Given that some of these trees are between 3 and 5 feet wide, know that when they were saplings, Thomas Edison invented his light bulb, Abraham Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address, and some are old enough to have been there when Jefferson penned the draft of the Declaration of Independence. Beyond the campsite, you can explore the nearby white sand beaches. See the natural springs of Ponce DeLeon, less than 15 minutes away. Or do other activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking. Amenities: 16.4 foot diameter furnished bell tent on a 20x28 elevated wooden deck (3 steps). Queen bed plus couch and small cot, sleeps 2 adults and 2 children. Mini-Fridge 1.6cf, AC, fan, coffee maker, charging port outlets, picnic table, lots of custom lighting, bbq grill, fire pit, outdoor sink, grilling utensils, 2 portable toilet buildings, & outdoor wood shower stall where you can take a hot shower.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$62
 / night

14. Turtle Whisperer Houseboat

43mi from Panama City · 1 site · Lodging
I am offering short-term rentals of my houseboat this season. It is located on the Apalachicola River, about 1 mile upstream of Neal Landing near Blountstown, and is only accessible by motorboat or paddle vessel. The houseboat is in a fixed location and does not move. It is furnished with two beds, a futon, and a loft for extra sleeping space, and there is a generator for power. This is a primitive camp, not a luxury resort stay. You must bring gasoline for the generator if you want power. The beds have hygienic mattress covers, but you should bring your own sleeping bag and pillow cover. You can relieve yourself at the boat ramp porta-potty (~1 mile away) or in the composting camp toilet out back. You must bring bottled drinking water or a Sawyer filter for river water. There is a propane stove/oven, a charcoal grill, and a fire pit out front if you bring wood or collect it. An outside propane instant hot water heater with a shower head and privacy screen is available if you need to get clean and don’t want to hop in the river. My goal is to offer a unique experience and provide a code to the door for the agreed time frame, not to provide every convenience. I would charge more for each stay if that were the case because it would be a real challenge for me to get to the houseboat and keep it stocked. If you come prepared for a camping trip, you will have a great time; if you come with nothing, you probably will not. This is my first time renting it out, so all the logistics are not fully sorted yet. I’m willing to talk with potential guests to see if we can work something out if additional amenities or comforts are required. This is an awesome camp for a hunting or fishing weekend, with enough room for a few friends to relax and enjoy some beers in the evening. This is not a random cash-grab rental property. This is my personal camp retreat, and I only want to share it with people who will be respectful of it and the river. More photos coming soon.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night

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The best pets off leash camping near Panama City guide

Where to go

St. Andrews State Park

When searching for camping near Panama City, you can’t miss St. Andrews State Park. Located under thirty minutes from Panama City, this well-maintained beach park has bathrooms, showers, and other amenities. You can also bring kayaks and canoes for a chance to paddle with dolphins, and people often see deer, storks and other wildlife. Many of the RV sites here back up straight to the shore, so you’ll get to watch the sunset over the water straight from your camp chair.

Henderson Beach State Park

About an hour and twenty minutes from Panama City, Henderson Beach State Park is a stunning beach recreation area. With 30-foot tall, white sand dunes (which you can hike, by the way) and stunningly blue Gulf waters, you’ll love how pristine this beach is. RV camping and hiking are popular here, as are biking and wildlife viewing. Here, you’ll get a chance to experience a unique dune ecosystem, complete with rare plants you won’t see elsewhere.

Mexico Beach

If you want to explore your RV park options, Mexico Beach has plenty. Only a half-hour drive from downtown Panama City, Mexico Beach has pure quartz sand, making it whiter than most other Florida beaches. Mexico Beach stretches for about five miles and doesn’t use lifeguards, since the beaches are often quite safe for swimming. This is a nesting ground for sea turtles, so you can get a chance to see them if you go between May and October. A stroll down the canal boardwalk can offer sights of the area’s nautical traditions.

When to go

This part of Florida is always nice to visit, but temperatures can get quite high in July and August, so you might prefer to camp outside of the peak summer. Additionally, spring breakers can crowd the city in late March to early April, though they usually won’t venture to the camping areas. January and February are great times to go, especially if you’re escaping a cold winter somewhere else.