Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park

Its full name might be something of a mouthful, but the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is well worth visiting for any nature lover. Not only does it provide easy access to the beaches and crystal-clear waters for which Florida is famous, but it also offers a pet-friendly campground where you and your pet can enjoy a relaxing beachfront vacation.

Pets are allowed in St. George Island State Park but must remain in designated areas only. Your pooch must be on a six-foot handheld leash and under your control at all times. Pets are allowed in the campground, in the primitive and group campsites, on the paved surfaces, and on the nature trails, but they're not permitted on the beach, beach boardwalks, or in pavilions. As always, you'll need to make sure to clean up after your pet whenever necessary.

If you can stay on top of these simple but important rules, there's nothing to stop you and your pooch enjoying a memorable camping getaway. Located on St. George Island, a beautiful barrier island that fronts Apalachicola Bay, this park is all about enjoying life beside the water. You can sunbathe, take long walks along the beach, swim, canoe, fish, and go boating.

Nature lovers will adore the chance to see nesting sea turtles and pods of playful dolphins up close, and birdwatchers can keep their eyes peeled for shorebirds such as the snowy plover, least tern, and black skimmer. Alternatively, maybe you'd prefer to just sit back and take in a spectacular sunset with your pet by your side.

The  St. George Island State Park campground features 60 campsites. Two primitive campsites can only be accessed by a 2.5-mile trail or by boat, and there's also a primitive group camping area for other organized groups.

It's a wonderful spot to spend a night or three camping out. And when you can share your vacation with your canine pal, what could possibly be better?