Nicole R.
Guide
GuideMarkham Park Campground
Cool place
This was a county park and has 88 sites. You are surrounded by water with lots of wildlife. There are several circles of sites which are very close together but very nice
Tent Camping near Delray Beach, FL
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Tent camping options near Delray Beach, Florida range from coastal to inland locations, with several established tent campgrounds within driving distance. Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach offers tent sites with amenities including picnic tables, fire pits, and access to showers and toilets. Peanut Island Campground provides a unique boat-in camping experience on a small island with beach access, though reaching this campground requires watercraft transportation.
Most tent sites in the region require advance reservations, particularly during winter months when temperatures are mild and demand increases. The primitive tent areas at Jonathan Dickinson State Park include both Kitching Creek and Scrub Jay campgrounds, accessible primarily by hiking in. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with some offering drinking water and toilets while others provide minimal amenities. A visitor commented, "Kitching Creek campground is as beautiful as it is remote, perfect if you seek serene solitude." Pack insect repellent as mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during warmer months and near water sources.
The tent camping experience in this region often involves proximity to water features including canals, creeks, and coastal areas. DuPuis Campground provides free camping with basic amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, though water access may be limited. Sites at Loop 4 offer water pumps, though as one camper noted, the water sometimes comes out with a purple tinge and sulfur smell, making creek water (after filtering) a preferred option. Sawgrass Recreation Park has a small primitive tent area that serves as "an oasis of civilization" on otherwise undeveloped routes. Many tent campsites in the area are situated to provide shade from the intense Florida sun, though summer camping can still be uncomfortably hot and humid compared to winter months.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Delray Beach (9)
1. Quiet Waters Park
"Tucked away in the bustling suburbs of Deerfield Beach, Quiet Waters Park offers one of South Florida's more unusual camping experiences."
"We brought our kayaks and played around. Had a lot of space to walk our dogs. It was really a great time!"
2. Peanut Island Campground
"There are bathrooms with shower next to the campground. All sites are tent only sites and they are very close to each other. You can get two sites instead of one when available."
"Kayak and puddle board to snorkeling with beautiful fishes and manatee if you are lucky;) The best place to spend on long weekends away from crowds and technology."
3. Sawgrass Recreation Park
"Luckily, the weather stayed nice during our visit, making it a really pleasant trip. A $200 deposit is also pending, subject to a damage inspection of the campsite."
"Sawgrass Recreation area primary businesses are airboat tours and petting zoo, however they have a small primitive campsite at the back as well. I was trying to ride my bicycle from Ft."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
4. Little Gopher
"A primitive campground on the Ocean to Lake trail, it is well maintained by the FTA-Lox chapter."
"little nice quiet camping spot away from civilization"
5. Kitching Creek Primitive Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
6. Scrub Jay Primitive Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park
"Although less pretty and less remote than Kitching Creek, it is only 5 mi from the park entrance, wich makes it perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
7. Loop 4
"Plenty of trees for hammock camping and shade. There are two picnic tables/firepits and a water pump. However the water from the pump came out with a purple tinge and smelling of Sulphur."
"this is a verynice campground with water pump, fire ring and picknic tables"
8. DuPuis Campground
"Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Various trees at the camp sites to provide shade. First come first serve. Two cars, two tents, 6 people max per camp site. The sites surround a pond."
"All the sites are wrapped around a pond. Palm trees and all kinds of other shrubbery are throughout the campground. There are a couple of small alligators 🐊 in the pond and some big ole turtles 🐢."
9. Indiantown Marina
Drive Time
- 46 min from Miami, FL
- 52 min from Port St. Lucie, FL
- 1 hr 34 min from Sebastian, FL
- 1 hr 50 min from Naples, FL
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Delray Beach, FL
4 Photos of 9 Delray Beach Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Delray Beach, FL
208 Reviews of 9 Delray Beach Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendQuiet Waters Park
No RVs, No Tent Setup, No Problem
Tucked away in the bustling suburbs of Deerfield Beach, Quiet Waters Park offers one of South Florida's more unusual camping experiences. This sprawling 427-acre Broward County park features sparkling lakes, tropical greenery and enough outdoor recreation to keep just about everyone entertained. But here's the twist: forget about bringing your RV or even pitching your own tent! Instead, the campground features 25 preassembled canvas tents and two traditional tepees, all situated on a scenic lakeside peninsula. With kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, cable wakeboarding and a seasonal water playground, there's certainly no shortage of ways to work up an appetite before gathering around the campfire.
The campground itself is relatively small and refreshingly uncomplicated. Each 10-by-10-foot canvas tent sits on an elevated wooden platform, helping keep campers off the damp Florida ground, while individual sites feature electricity, running water, picnic tables, charcoal grills and fire rings. The two tepees offer a fun alternative, particularly for families with adventurous youngsters. Restrooms with hot showers are conveniently located within the camping area, and there's even a sand volleyball court and horseshoe pit for a little friendly competition. While the grounds are attractive and the lakeside setting is lovely, don't expect luxury accommodations or complete seclusion. This is camping with a few creature comforts, not 'glamping' at the Ritz-Carlton!
There are a couple of important considerations before booking. First, you'll need to bring your own bedding and camping essentials, mosquitoes can be relentless during warmer months, and South Florida's humidity doesn't magically disappear just because you're sleeping under canvas. Secondly, there are absolutely no RV campsites, making this a destination exclusively for tent and tepee enthusiasts. Nevertheless, for families, first-time campers and anyone seeking an easy introduction to outdoor living, Quiet Waters offers a wonderfully different experience. Third, if you are thinking of booking one of the teepees as a novelty experience, you should, but be aware, there's a reason why Native Americans generally didn't use teepees in FL - there's very little ventilation, so at least during the summer months, you'll want to avoid these particular accommodations.
Insider's Tip: (1) If you want an absolute beautiful sunset view directly from inside the canvas tent you booked for the night or your nearby picnic table, then book one of the sites that sit on the northern edge of the small peninsula of campsites; (2) There's slightly more breeze that blows into your thick canvas tent if you are on the southern perimeter of the peninsula - I booked site #21 and experienced GREAT views of the water, had decent breezes (but still needed the aid of my electric jumbo fan); (3) If you are thinking about bringing your bike or hiking shoes, you absolutely should AND your swimming shorts as the cable skiing adventure is WELL WORTH IT - I wished I had known this was here before I arrived here otherwise I would have come prepared; and (4) The CG staff here are FIRST RATE, so when you are booking, be sure to follow their recommendations and advice - perhaps the biggest tip I could give you is to download the APP before you arrive to allow for a seamless gate entry experience, even after dark.
Happy Camping!
Anthony B.
TravelerPine Grove Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Great campground but missing the vendor
My family stayed at the park for a long weekend. Great park, but the vendor contract expired and a new one hasn’t been chosen. Because of this, canoe rentals, firewood, ice, etc. are not available in the park. Thankfully Publix is just up the road. We will be back, but not until the vendor situation is resolved.
Thomas B.
RangerSt Lucie South
Quiet and Simple
I returned back to St Lucie South based on the price, proximity to nearby resources (and I95), and because it was so peaceful during my previous stay. This visit was mostly the same. When I arrived, the host wasn't around. I parked my rig and waited for about 30 minutes before I left the site, and they got me checked in while I was out. With such a small campground, you can generally expect a quiet visit right on the water. That said, this visit included some less courteous neighbors who brought two big dogs across basically every site, barking at people trying to enjoy the peace. I don't blame the park for that one. Side note, if you visit in the summer, consider looking at the angle of the sites and picking one based on your rig. The afternoon sun is pretty brutal on the driver side of some spots (I think mostly 7 and 9).
- Thomas B.Ranger
St Lucie South
Quiet and peaceful
I enjoyed a 4-day stay at this campsite. I ended up staying longer than expected, so I used 3 different sites, and there are only about 10 to choose from.
The campground was quiet and pleasant my entire stay. I'd prefer to have a sewer hookup but the dump station is just on the way out. Facilities and dumpster just a minute walk away. Boat ramp and pavilions near the water. Plus, every site has a covered picnic table. I really enjoyed the simplicity of this place, but there isn't a ton to do unless you venture out, depending on your preferences.
- Thomas B.Ranger
Pine Grove Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Easy Access and Set-up
Overall a pleasant experience, especially for only my second trip in the RV. My lot was mostly clean, had plenty of space for my truck and 30ft trailer, and had everything I needed. I was expecting a more peaceful trip out in nature, but about 12 people were camping in the lot beside me with their dog off-leash, so there were some moments of frustration with noise and my dog, who is leashed as expected. The observation tower was closed and basically all concessions/tours were as well, but it was still nice to get on some trails.
Nicholas A.RangerJB CORBETT WMA
Old Florida Charm
Nice wildlife area with tons of hiking and mudding trails. Campsites are massive and can accommodate many vehicles/tents/rvs at once. You will need a free permit when reserving your site, which can be found on their website. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle or $3 per person, or free if you have a Management Area Permit. I stayed at sites A and B with B being the better if the two since it had access to a covered area and floating dock. Note: you will hear freight trains and Pratt & Whitney's engine testing throughout the night, so bring something to cover your ears if you're a light sleeper. T-Mobile becomes spottier the deeper in you go. Campsites are located near the north entrance, so if you don't want to drive for 30+ min through the park, DO NOT enter from the east entrance.
The N.
ScoutParadise Island RV Resort
Crowded
It's great to be in Fort Lauderdale, so close to activities. RV park is old, poorly kept, and crowded. Mostly long-term campers who were very friendly. Vehicles parked onto narrow black top roads. Dead leaves blown to the side but not picked up. Peeling paint in showers. Friendly staff to our faces, but overheard them being unkind when they didn't know we could hear.
Curtis D.GuideDuPuis Campground
My Favorite
This place is so cool. All the sites are wrapped around a pond. Palm trees and all kinds of other shrubbery are throughout the campground. There are a couple of small alligators 🐊 in the pond and some big ole turtles 🐢. The campground host is very nice. They check out your reservation and leave you alone. I say, check it out. It's free. 👍
Guide to Delray Beach
Tent campsites near Delray Beach, Florida range from free primitive sites to established facilities with amenities. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making winter camping significantly more comfortable. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations below 20 feet above sea level, with many positioned near waterways that serve as wildlife corridors.
What to do
Airboat adventures: At Sawgrass Recreation Park, campers can combine tent camping with airboat tours. "Sawgrass Recreation area primary businesses are airboat tours and petting zoo, however they have a small primitive campsite at the back as well," notes Pavel T., who appreciates its convenient location off state route 27.
Hiking trails: The Ocean to Lake Trail provides access to several primitive campsites. "A primitive campground on the Ocean to Lake trail, it is well maintained by the FTA-Lox chapter," writes J R. about Little Gopher, adding that the "large site capable of housing multiple tents and hammock setups" makes it ideal for group hikers.
Paddling opportunities: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Peanut Island Campground, where according to Maimi T., you can enjoy "kayak and puddle board to snorkeling with beautiful fishes and manatee if you are lucky." The boat-in only campground provides a unique water-centric experience.
What campers like
Island camping: Campers appreciate the isolation of Peanut Island Campground. "The best place to spend on long weekends away from crowds and technology," reports Maimi T., who found it "perfect for small kids to running around and felt very safe."
Free camping options: DuPuis Campground offers no-cost tent camping with basic amenities. "FREE stay, register at the SFWMD site and request a permit. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Various trees at the camp sites provide shade," explains J R., noting the sites surround a pond.
Urban accessibility: Many campers value the proximity to urban amenities at certain locations. "Good location in the middle of urban area, cabins to rent," writes Alex P. about Quiet Waters Park, highlighting its convenience for those unwilling to drive long distances from the city.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Many tent sites lack modern amenities. At Loop 4, J R. cautions about water quality: "The water from the pump came out with a purple tinge and smelling of Sulphur. I opted to get my drinking water from the creek across from the camping area after filtering it."
Wildlife awareness: Alligators are common in this region. "The creek farther down had adolescent gators, nothing to worry about. But I kept my eyes pealed for sudden movements when I got the water," shares J R. about Loop 4 campground.
Seasonal campground closures: Availability varies throughout the year. "The campground is only open during dry season, which is late winter," notes Pavel T. about Sawgrass Recreation Park.
Weather considerations: Summer heat and humidity can be extreme, while winter brings more comfortable temperatures with lows in the 60s. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently from June through September.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shade: Florida sun can be intense. DuPuis Campground features "various trees at the camp sites to provide shade," which J R. found valuable during their stay.
Consider hiking distances: Some primitive sites require significant hiking. Pavel T. recommends Scrub Jay Primitive Campground for families, noting it's "only 5 mi from the park entrance, which makes it perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children."
Plan for insects: Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be prevalent year-round but especially during warmer months. Bring appropriate repellents and consider screened tents.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming or paddling opportunities that appeal to children. Peanut Island Campground has areas "for small kids to running around" with beach access and snorkeling opportunities, according to Maimi T.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Delray Beach lack RV hookups. When available, sites fill quickly during winter months.
Alternative marina camping: Indiantown Marina offers some RV camping with hookups, though Johnny A. describes it as "pretty bear" with "spaces to camp but without anything else," indicating minimal amenities.
Access considerations: Many tent-only sites have restricted vehicle access. Check road conditions before arrival, especially during rainy seasons when unpaved access roads may become difficult to navigate.
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near Delray Beach, FL?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Delray Beach, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Delray Beach, FL is Quiet Waters Park with a 3.7-star rating from 7 reviews.
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Delray Beach, FL?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Delray Beach, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Delray Beach, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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