Primitive camping opportunities around Hobe Sound, Florida extend beyond established state park campgrounds into several dispersed sites across conservation lands. Campers can find tent-only sites within the greater Palm Beach and Martin County regions, ranging from boat-accessible island camping to walk-in sites along the Florida Trail system. Many primitive sites experience seasonal variations in accessibility due to water levels in the summer wet season and hunting restrictions during fall and winter months.
What to do
Water adventures near Peanut Island: The Peanut Island Campground provides unique water-based recreation options. "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," notes camper Maimi T.
Hiking the Ocean to Lake Trail: The 63-mile Ocean to Lake Trail passes through several primitive campsites in the region. At Little Gopher, J.R. reports: "A primitive campground on the Ocean to Lake trail, it is well maintained by the FTA-Lox chapter. I stayed there during the dry season and out of hunting season. Check for both as the camping experience will be drastically different."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Many campgrounds provide natural habitat viewing. Watch for adolescent alligators in creeks near Loop 4, particularly when collecting water. The canals and waterways throughout the region host diverse wildlife including wading birds and reptiles native to Florida's ecosystem.
What campers like
Remote solitude: The Kitching Creek Primitive Campground receives high marks for isolation. "This campground as beautiful as it is remote, just the way I like it. Perfect if you seek serene solitude," according to Pavel T., highlighting the appeal for those seeking quiet camping experiences.
Accessible primitive sites: Some primitive sites balance remoteness with reasonable access. Alex P. notes about Little Gopher: "All of it easily accessible from road. You don't need 4x4 to get there from bee highway," making these sites approachable for campers without specialized vehicles or extensive hiking experience.
Water access: Campers appreciate sites with water features, though water quality varies significantly. At Loop 4, J.R. notes: "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. I opted to get my drinking water from the creek after filtering it."
What you should know
Water sources require filtering: Many primitive sites have unreliable or questionable water sources. A camper at Loop 4 advises: "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." Always bring filtration equipment and exercise caution around water sources.
Reservation and permit requirements: Several campgrounds require advance planning. At DuPuis Campground, J.R. explains the process: "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 considerations: Camping conditions vary dramatically between wet and dry seasons. Hunting seasons also affect camping availability and safety in wildlife management areas. Several sites flood during summer months, while winter offers more moderate temperatures but potential hunting activity.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shorter hiking approaches: For families with younger children, Scrub Jay Primitive Campground offers reasonable access. "Although less pretty and less remote than Kitching Creek, it is only 5 mi from the park entrance, which makes it perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children," advises Pavel T.
Island camping adventure: Families seeking unique camping experiences might consider boat-accessible camping. Ilena R. describes Peanut Island: "The only way to get to this campground is by boat. All sites are tent only sites and they are very close to each other. There is some shade in the campground area but in the summer can get very hot."
Group camping capacity: Some sites accommodate larger family groups. A camper described Loop 4 as "large, can easily accommodate 30+ people and is well maintained. I had an occasional cell signal. Plenty of trees for hammock camping and shade." This makes it suitable for extended family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Hobe Sound primarily consists of primitive sites not suitable for RVs. Indiantown Marina represents one of few options with RV accommodation, though Johnny A. notes it offers minimal amenities: "Drove pass to check it out and there are spaces to camp but without anything else."
Tent camping as alternative: Most RVers seeking overnight options near Hobe Sound should consider state parks with developed campgrounds farther afield or prepare for basic accommodations. The primitive camping network in this region primarily serves backpackers, hikers, and tent campers seeking natural experiences away from developed facilities.
