Cary Campground

Are you looking for a Fido-friendly outdoor adventure in some of the most beautiful surroundings that Florida has to offer? Then you’d be barking mad not to consider camping at Cary Campground in Cary State Forest! Facilities at Cary aren’t resort-quality, but they aren’t exactly primitive, either. You’ll have access to showers, electricity, and water hookups.

But make no bones about it, the location is worth sacrificing a couple of creature comforts! The sites are large and a good width apart, so your privacy is guaranteed. The clearing is dotted with tall trees and wildflowers, but not all spots are shaded. You might want to bring a shade structure or take other precautions if you’re visiting in the height of summer.

This Sunshine State staying spot really shines when it comes to proximity to outdoor recreation! The forest has forty-miles of fur-friendly trails for you and your buddy to sniff and explore, running past majestic cypress domes, past swamps, and around towering flatwoods. There may not be much for a serious hound-dog hiker or four-pawed fitness freak to get their teeth into, but that doesn’t mean the routes aren’t well worth a wander! The 1.4 mile Cary Nature Trail loop features some intriguing carnivorous pitcher plants, and it’s ideal for laid-back lap dogs and athletic animals alike, whereas the Cary State Forest Preserve Trail is a furrific trek for spotting native Floridian wildflowers, and clocks in at 3.2 miles out-and-back.

Formerly a hidden gem, the seven-site campground is becoming increasingly paw-pular, so it pays to make your reservation early. There’s a $2 entrance fee to the forest, and a one-night stay will set you back $13.51. There’s also a $9 cancellation fee (or $9 plus the first night’s fee if you don’t inform them you’re not coming more than a day in advance).

WiFi isn’t available at Cary, though most cellular networks should receive at least some coverage. Fires are permitted, and you’ll find drinking water available on-site. Remember to bring waste bags for your doggo, and have a pawesome time!