The best dog-friendly camping near Sanford

Over 700 West Indian manatees flood Blue Spring State Park every winter thanks to ongoing protection efforts. Here, limestone aquifers bubble up to feed the St. Johns River and create a warm and comfortable environment for the grazing sea cows. Observe the creatures in their natural habitat from boardwalks and observation decks, then dive into the water for summer snorkeling, scuba diving, and inner tubing. Hipcampers can select from a full range of camping options including primitive tent campsites, cabins, and RV sites with full hookups, plus amenities like fire rings and picnic tables.

Campers don’t need to go far from Sanford to discover a little slice of nature’s sanctuary. Set on the shores of the lake for which it is named, Lake Monroe Park is both right in the heart of town and miles away from the everyday. With both tent and RV camping options, there’s easy access to miles of biking trails, including the scenic Sanford RiverWalk running along the lakeshore. The lake itself offers attractive largemouth bass fishing year-round, as well as the chance to catch black crappies, bluegill, and massive channel catfish. If the fish elude your lure, historic Sanford’s local restaurants are mere minutes away.