Best Campgrounds near Hobe Sound, FL
Jonathan Dickinson State Park anchors the camping landscape around Hobe Sound, Florida, with two distinct campgrounds offering varied experiences. Pine Grove Campground near the park entrance provides spacious sites with good privacy, while River Campground sits four miles into the park along the Loxahatchee River, offering a more immersive natural setting. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access additional options like St. Lucie South, a small Army Corps of Engineers campground with both RV and tent sites along the canal, and primitive hike-in sites like Scrub Jay and Kitching Creek within Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The region supports everything from luxury RV resorts to basic tent camping, with most facilities open year-round.
Florida's subtropical climate significantly impacts camping comfort, with summer heat and humidity making tent camping challenging from May through September. "The bugs are pretty bad. Bring your OFF and screened shelters. No-see-ums were bad in the evening, and flies were plenty all day," notes one camper about Jonathan Dickinson State Park's summer conditions. Fall through spring offers more comfortable temperatures with less rainfall and fewer insects. Many campgrounds in the area require reservations well in advance, particularly during winter months when northern visitors seek warmer weather. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with most campgrounds reporting good coverage for major carriers.
Water activities feature prominently in camper experiences, with the Loxahatchee River providing paddling opportunities and wildlife viewing. "We've seen otter, tortoise, birds, eagles so far," reports one visitor to Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Campers frequently mention the excellent biking trails, with both paved and off-road options available. Wildlife encounters are common, though visitors at waterfront sites should be aware of alligators. "We were warned against paddle boarding the canal due to alligators. Swimming is not permitted," notes a St. Lucie South camper. Proximity to Hobe Sound Beach (about 30-35 minutes from most campgrounds) allows for day trips to the Atlantic Ocean, providing a diverse outdoor experience combining inland and coastal recreation.
