Tent camping near Palm Beach, Florida provides access to both coastal and inland environments with distinctive ecosystems. The region contains cypress stands, palm hammocks, and coastal dunes within a subtropical climate zone. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping offers more comfortable conditions with daytime temperatures in the 70s.
What to do
Airboat tours at Sawgrass: The Sawgrass Recreation Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the Everglades ecosystem. One camper noted, "This place is conveniently located just off the state route 27, an oasis of civilization on a 30-mile stretch of nothingness."
Fishing at multiple locations: Quiet Waters Park provides accessible fishing opportunities for campers. A visitor reported, "It was a great time went fishing had fires and explored nature the park office has everything."
Hiking the Ocean to Lake Trail: The trail connects several primitive camping areas. At Loop 4, a hiker mentioned, "Being on the OTLHT backpackers came through to eat before moving on to the next camp."
Wildlife observation: Jonathan Dickinson State Park's primitive sites offer opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife. At Scrub Jay campground, a visitor explained it's "perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children," though noted "the water pump is broken, and don't expect it to be fixed anytime soon."
What campers like
Natural water features: The Loop 4 campground provides creek access. A camper advised, "I opted to get my drinking water from the creek across from the camping area after filtering it. The creek farther down had adolescent gators, nothing to worry about."
Solitude at primitive sites: The Kitching Creek Primitive Campground offers a remote experience for those seeking isolation. A camper described it as "beautiful as it is remote, just the way I like it. Perfect if you seek serene solitude."
Urban-accessible nature: DuPuis Campground provides free camping with basic amenities near urban areas. A camper explained, "Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Various trees at the camp sites provide shade."
Water activities: Indiantown Marina offers camping with boat access. While facilities are limited, with one visitor describing it as "pretty bare" with "spaces to camp but without anything else," the location provides water access.
What you should know
Reservations and permits: DuPuis requires advance registration through the South Florida Water Management District website. A camper explained, "FREE stay, register at the SFWMD site and request a permit... You need the code for the combination lock to open the gate which is included with the permit."
Seasonal limitations: Sawgrass Recreation Park camping is only available during specific times. A reviewer noted, "The campground is only open during dry season, which is late winter."
Weather impacts: Recent rainfall can affect campsite accessibility. One Sawgrass visitor reported, "Because of the rain, getting to and from the campsites by car may be challenging, and the area could be muddy."
Water quality concerns: At Loop 4, a camper warned about water sources: "The water from the pump came out with a purple tinge and smelling of Sulphur."
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking options: The Scrub Jay Primitive Campground in Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers an accessible option for families. A visitor noted it's "only 5 mi from the park entrance, which makes it perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children."
Urban camping alternative: Quiet Waters Park provides a convenient option for families not wanting to travel far. A camper shared, "Good location in the middle of urban area, cabins to rent. We've used for daycamp without overnight, but you can do that if you want."
Protected campsite selection: Little Gopher campground offers a cleared area suitable for family setups. A camper described it as "a large site capable of housing multiple tents and hammock setups, a firepit, 4 wood benches surrounding it and two poles for hanging backpacks."
Vehicle access considerations: For families with young children, note that some sites require hiking in. A Loop 4 visitor mentioned, "A short hike from the Cypress Boardwalk Trailhead Parking to the campground."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Palm Beach restrict RV access, particularly at primitive sites. The primitive sites at Jonathan Dickinson State Park and Little Gopher are tent-only with hike-in requirements.
Marina alternatives: Indiantown Marina offers limited RV facilities with hookups. The property has "spaces to camp" though amenities are minimal.
Site size limitations: Peanut Island Campground restricts access to tent camping only. A camper noted, "All sites are tent only sites and they are very close to each other. You can get two sites instead of one when available."
Utility access: Water and electrical hookups are available at select locations like Quiet Waters Park, where a visitor mentioned they "had a grill, electricity, fire pit, tent, running water and was pet friendly."
