Campgrounds in the Florida Keys That Allow Dogs
Plan the perfect pet-friendly camping trip to the Florida Keys with our complete guide to dog-friendly campgrounds, pet policies, and essential tips for camping with your furry companion.
Planning a camping trip to the Florida Keys with your dog? You're in luck. The Keys offer a surprising number of dog-friendly campgrounds, from state parks with dedicated pet areas to private resorts with fenced dog parks. However, navigating the patchwork of pet policies, leash rules, and beach restrictions can be challenging. This guide breaks down exactly which campgrounds welcome dogs, what the rules are, and how to prepare for a successful trip with your four-legged companion.
Why the Florida Keys Are Ideal for Camping with Dogs
The Florida Keys stretch over 100 miles of islands connected by the Overseas Highway, offering a unique subtropical camping experience. For dog owners, the Keys present both opportunities and challenges. The warm climate means year-round camping potential, but the heat requires careful planning to keep your dog safe. Many campgrounds have recognized the growing demand for pet-friendly accommodations and have invested in amenities like fenced dog parks, pet-friendly beaches, and designated walking trails.
Before you plan your trip, it's helpful to understand general camping with dogs rules that apply to most campgrounds. The Florida Keys have specific regulations, particularly around protected wildlife areas like the National Key Deer Refuge, where pets are restricted to protect the endangered Key deer.
Top Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in the Florida Keys
Curry Hammock State Park — Marathon
Located at Mile Marker 56 just outside Marathon, Curry Hammock State Park is consistently rated one of the most popular dog-friendly campgrounds in the Middle Keys. The park offers a beautiful setting with waterfront campsites and excellent amenities for both humans and dogs.
Dog-Friendly Features
- Fenced dog park — Campers rave about the "awesome fenced in dog park with a sprinkler and water bowl"[citation:1]
- Large pavilion and beach area (beach access for humans, not dogs)
- Clean bathhouses and well-maintained sites
- Access to the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail for dog walks
Pet Policies to Know
- Pets are not allowed on the beach, in the water, or in the bathhouses[citation:12]
- Dogs must be on a 6-foot handheld leash at all times in designated areas[citation:12]
- Pets must be well-behaved and under control
Reservations at Curry Hammock fill up quickly. One camper noted they were shut out when booking 11 months in advance[citation:1]. The park is compact with well-leveled sites, but shade is limited — plan for sun protection for both you and your dog.
Bahia Honda State Park — Big Pine Key
Bahia Honda State Park is one of the most famous campgrounds in the Florida Keys, known for its breathtaking views and historic bridge. For dog owners, the experience is more nuanced — pets are welcome in campgrounds and on specific trails, but the famous beaches are off-limits.
Dog-Friendly Features
- All three campgrounds (Buttonwood, Bayside, and Sandspur) are pet-friendly[citation:13]
- Leashed dogs welcome on the 1/4-mile trail to the Old Bahia Honda Bridge[citation:3]
- Buttonwood Campground has the largest sites, accommodating RVs to small pop-up tents[citation:13]
- No pet fee
Pet Policies to Know
- Pets are not allowed on beaches, in the water, or in buildings (including cabins, bathhouses, and pavilions)[citation:3][citation:13]
- Dogs must be kept on a 6-foot leash and well-behaved at all times[citation:8]
- Limited to designated areas only
Some campers find the dog restrictions limiting, noting that "Bahia Honda is a great state park but it is NOT dog friendly" if you expect beach access for your pup[citation:3]. However, if you're looking for a beautiful campground where your dog can join you on walks and hang out at your site, it remains an excellent choice. The nearby town of Big Pine Key has a public dog park for off-leash exercise[citation:5].
Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort
This KOA resort at Mile Marker 20 offers a more resort-style camping experience with extensive amenities. The property is fully pet-friendly for both RV and tent campers, making it one of the most welcoming options for dog owners in the Lower Keys.
Dog-Friendly Features
- KampK9® dog park — a fenced, safe area for dogs to run[citation:2]
- Pet-friendly for tent camping, RV camping, and even hotel stays[citation:2]
- Water-loving dogs have access to a private beach area[citation:5]
- Pool, hot tub, boat dock, kayak rentals, and more
Pet Policies to Know
- Standard campground leash rules apply (dogs must be leashed in common areas)
- Private beach has designated dog-friendly access
- Dog park is small but well-maintained[citation:5]
Campers describe the dog park as "small, but still nice"[citation:5] and appreciate that the resort is "super dog friendly"[citation:1]. The KOA's location makes it a great base for exploring Key West with your dog, though you'll need to plan around the areas where pets aren't permitted.
Sun Outdoors Marathon (formerly Pelican RV Resort)
Located at Mile Marker 59 on Grassy Key, Sun Outdoors Marathon is a full-hookup RV resort with a private marina and a dedicated dog park. The property sits on 300 feet of Gulf of Mexico waterfront and offers a range of amenities for campers traveling with pets[citation:6].
Dog-Friendly Features
- On-site dog park for off-leash exercise[citation:6]
- Pets allowed at RV sites
- Full hookups with 30/50-amp electric, water, sewer, and cable
- Heated swimming pool, marina, boat ramp, and fishing dock
Pet Policies to Know
- Pets must be leashed in common areas
- Dog park is the designated off-leash area
- RV sites accommodate up to 50 feet with slide-outs[citation:6]
This is a solid choice for RVers who want a resort-style experience with their dogs. The dedicated dog park is a significant advantage over state parks that lack fenced exercise areas.
Jolly Roger RV Resort — Marathon
Jolly Roger RV Resort in Marathon is a popular choice for camping families with dogs. The park offers a range of amenities and a dedicated dog park, though some campers note that sites are packed relatively tight[citation:10].
Dog-Friendly Features
- Fenced dog park — "dog friendly with a nice fenced in dog park"[citation:15]
- Pool, boat slips, boat ramp, fish cleaning station, and fishing docks
- Laundry facilities and full hookups
Pet Policies to Know
- Dogs must be leashed except in the dog park
- Sites are tight — keep your dog close when moving through the park
One camper described it as having "narrow roads, shades, water side sites, pool, dog park, boat wash, laundromat… its nice. But because packed so tight, I can't give higher stars"[citation:10]. If your dog is comfortable in close quarters and you value having a fenced run area, Jolly Roger is a solid option.
Key Largo Kampground & Marina
For campers looking to stay in the Upper Keys, Key Largo Kampground & Marina offers a convenient location with pet-friendly accommodations. It's one of the few options for tent camping in the Key Largo area, though reviews are mixed regarding site spacing and beach quality[citation:9].
Dog-Friendly Features
- Pets allowed at campsites
- Pool area and clean bathhouses
- Walking distance to shopping center
- Secure grounds with easy check-in
Pet Policies to Know
- Dogs must be leashed at all times
- Beaches are not ideal for dogs (or swimming — the water quality is questionable)[citation:9]
- Sites are close together — limited privacy
One camper noted the "beaches at this campsite are not what you would think for the keys… the water looks more like a swamp" and mentioned signs about crocodiles[citation:9]. This campground is best for RVers or campers who prioritize location over spaciousness, and whose dogs are comfortable in a busy environment.
Big Pine Key RV Park
Big Pine Key RV Park offers 96 full-hookup RV sites at Mile Marker 33. The park has a unique policy regarding pets that's important to understand before booking — pets are allowed in some areas but not in the rustic sites near the protected Key deer habitat[citation:14].
Dog-Friendly Features
- Pets allowed in standard RV sites (hard-sided campers)[citation:14]
- Full hookups with 30/50-amp service
- Convenient location in the Lower Keys
Pet Policies to Know
- No dogs allowed on rustic campsites (near Key deer habitat)[citation:14]
- Pets are not allowed in the rustic sites unless camping in a hard-sided camper[citation:14]
- This policy protects the endangered Key deer and keeps campers compliant with Florida wildlife law
If you're traveling with a dog, you must book a standard full-hookup site with a hard-sided RV. Tent campers with dogs should look elsewhere. The nearby Big Pine Key dog park is an option for off-leash exercise[citation:5].
Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in the Keys: Quick Comparison
| Campground | Location | Type | Dog Park | Beach Access for Dogs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curry Hammock State Park | Marathon (MM 56) | State Park | Yes (fenced) | No |
| Bahia Honda State Park | Big Pine Key | State Park | No | No (trail only) |
| Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA | Sugarloaf Key (MM 20) | Private Resort | Yes (KampK9) | Yes (designated area) |
| Sun Outdoors Marathon | Grassy Key (MM 59) | Private Resort | Yes | No |
| Jolly Roger RV Resort | Marathon | Private Resort | Yes (fenced) | No |
| Key Largo Kampground | Key Largo | Private Campground | No | No |
| Big Pine Key RV Park | Big Pine Key (MM 33) | Private Campground | Nearby (public) | No |
Essential Tips for Camping with Dogs in the Florida Keys
1. Understand the State Park Pet Policies
Florida State Parks have some of the most restrictive pet policies in the country. At both Curry Hammock and Bahia Honda, dogs are not allowed on beaches, in the water, or in any buildings. Plan your activities accordingly — this usually means keeping your dog at the campsite during beach time or taking turns watching your pet. Familiarize yourself with general camping with dogs rules before your trip.
2. Book Early — Especially for State Parks
Dog-friendly campsites in the Keys are in high demand. Curry Hammock and Bahia Honda can book up 11 months in advance[citation:1]. Set calendar reminders and be ready to book as soon as reservations open. If you can't get a site, check for cancellations regularly — some campers have luck finding last-minute availability[citation:1].
3. Prepare for Heat and Humidity
The Florida Keys are hot and humid year-round. Dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs), are at risk of heatstroke. Bring plenty of water, provide shade at your campsite, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. Learn more about keeping your dog safe while camping.
4. Respect Wildlife Protection Areas
The Keys are home to protected species like the Key deer. Some campgrounds, including Big Pine Key RV Park, restrict pets from certain areas to protect wildlife[citation:14]. Always follow posted signs and keep your dog leashed and under control.
5. Bring the Right Gear
A comfortable camping experience for your dog requires proper preparation. Consider bringing a comfortable sleeping setup for your dog, a shaded rest area, and plenty of water. For dogs that enjoy swimming, a portable dog hammock or elevated bed can keep them off hot ground. If your dog is anxious in new environments, a familiar-smelling sleeping bag or blanket can help them settle.
What to Look for in a Dog-Friendly Keys Campground
Not all dog-friendly campgrounds are created equal. When choosing your base for a Keys camping trip, prioritize these features:
- Fenced dog park — Essential for off-leash exercise, especially at state parks where leashes are required everywhere else.
- Shaded sites — Critical for keeping your dog cool in the subtropical climate.
- Proximity to walking trails — The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail offers safe, paved walking paths.
- Clear pet policies — Campgrounds with straightforward rules make planning easier.
- Nearby public dog parks — If your campground lacks a dog park, check for public options in nearby towns like Big Pine Key.
Ready to Plan Your Dog-Friendly Keys Adventure?
Now that you know which campgrounds welcome dogs and what to expect, it's time to gather your gear and hit the road. Check our recommended camping gear for dogs and their owners below.
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