Jonathan Dickinson State Park is the focal point for camping near Hobe Sound, Florida, situated in a transitional zone between tropical and temperate ecosystems. The park spans 11,500 acres of natural habitat, from sand pine scrub to cypress swamps, with elevations ranging from sea level to 86 feet at Hobe Mountain. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally dip into the 40s.
What to do
Paddling excursions: The Loxahatchee River within Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers excellent kayaking opportunities. One visitor at River Campground notes, "The park is beautiful, must climb Hobe Mountain, the views are stunning. From there you can see both the intracoastal waterway and the Atlantic Ocean in one direction and sand dunes every other direction."
Wildlife viewing: The wetland areas attract diverse wildlife year-round. At Savannas Recreation Area, campers report, "We loved this place. Celebrated my sister's 65 birthday here. Spent 10 nights. Enjoyed the wildlife." Another notes, "Lots of birds & gaters. The staff is very friendly. Free bike rental & kayaks were $5 per hour."
Biking trails: The region offers extensive biking options on both paved and off-road surfaces. A camper at Pine Grove Campground mentioned, "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We love the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the cleanliness of the park facilities. At St. Lucie Lock South, a visitor commented, "The Staff are friendly and treat this place as home. Great Volunteer's." Another noted, "The hosts keep the grounds and bathhouse spotless and noise after hours was never an issue for us."
River access: Direct access to waterways ranks high among camper preferences. One reviewer said of St. Lucie Lock South, "Located just outside Stuart, FL. the site is located on the St. Lucie lock and dam. The tent sites are on the canal and watching the boats come in to use the lock is nice."
Privacy between sites: Site layout and vegetation create natural separation at some campgrounds. A camper at Pine Grove Campground observed, "I looked up this campground on Google Earth to see what it was like here. It looked like a flat area with close sites near a busy highway. Was pleasantly surprised that the scrub around the sites is tall making sites more private that the view from Google."
What you should know
Heat challenges: Summer temperatures require planning for cooling. One camper at Pine Grove Campground shared, "The campground is amazing, but due to not having many trees we don't have shade in the campsites. Just one another have trees, unfortunately. Coming in the summer was a bit tough staying here without an RV with air conditioning."
Wildlife precautions: Wildlife encounters require vigilance, especially near water. At Phipps Park Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "Convenient to visit family. I would not come to this park otherwise. We love State, Federal and COE parks where you feel more in touch with nature and not so close together. WARNING!!! Please be careful walking your dog. Alligators are in the park where people seem to not notice."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor to Pine Grove Campground advised, "Make your reservations early as it books up a year ahead of time."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Hobe Sound offer dedicated play areas. A visitor to Pine Grove Campground mentioned, "This park has paved loops with gravel pads, fire pits, BBQ, tables, playground and much to offer in terms of hiking, biking and boating/kayaking."
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences for children. At Savannas Recreation Area, "The park is beautiful. There's a hookup for water, waste and electricity. The Wi-Fi isn't great, but that's ok. It's not really necessary because you're too busy enjoying the nature around you!"
Tent location considerations: When camping with children, site selection matters. One camper at Ocean Breeze Resort cautioned, "The campsite is right by the train tracks to Miami, and it feels like the train is barreling through your van. This goes on all night, thanks to a few railroad crossings with plenty of honking!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most pet-friendly campgrounds provide standard connections. At Ocean Breeze Resort, "RV spots are close together but well appointed. The facilities are amazing. Beautiful large pool with a bar and very clean modern bathrooms and showers. Gym area and laundry as well."
Pad types and leveling: Surface types vary across campgrounds. A visitor to St. Lucie Lock South noted, "Only nine RV sites, but all of them are level and paved, with a sheltered picnic table, fire ring, and elevated grill in a gravel space adjoining your concrete pad."
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. A camper at St. Lucie Lock South reported, "2 to 3 bars of Verizon, Sprint, and AT&T (we use all three) ensure a pretty decent cell connection for keeping in touch. Reliable 50/30/20 and good water at the post."
