Hammock Campground Jennings State Forest

If you’re looking for a Fido-friendly staying spot for your Jennings State Forest outdoor getaway, Hammock Campground might be the paw-fect place for you to pitch your tent! That’s if you don’t mind "ruffing" it a bit, that is -- the facilities are pretty primitive. You certainly won’t have access to showers, electricity, or RV hookups. You won’t find any RVs at all, in fact -- the campground’s ten sites are set aside for tent campers only.

But with a location like this, who can complain about lacking a few creature comforts? The campground is situated among some of the most stunning natural beauty that the state of Florida has to offer. You and your pup are in the best location to explore the forest’s 25,000 acres, full of tropical trees, fascinating flora including indigenous wildflowers, deep ravines, and creek crossings. The fee to enter the forest is only $1 per person, and sites start at $10. With such limited places, it’s best to make your reservation early.

You and your buddy are bound to sniff out something fun to do during your stay! The campground has river access, and it’s a furrific place for keen anglers to cast a line. Avid birders will be glad to know that Jennings State Forest is on the Florida Birding Trail, and you can expect to spot flycatchers, woodpeckers, hawks, and even Summer Azures and Great Purple Hairstreak in the right season! 

Hound-dog hikers won’t have to venture too far to seek out entertainment. While the area doesn’t have much to offer four-pawed fitness freaks looking for a challenge, the five-mile North Black Creek Loop Trail is well worth a wander and presents many wildlife spotting opportunities. You might even see a sunbathing tortoise! Curious canines might get a kick out of a walk on the Fire and Water Nature Trail. This loop runs for under two miles, and is posted with signs that contain information about how the elements affect the forest’s natural growth.

As you might expect, WiFi isn’t available at Hammock Campground, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Fires are permitted in designated rings, but there’s no water available -- you’ll have to bring your own bottle. Remember to bring waste bags for your pupper, and have a grrr-eat time!