The Indiantown area features several camping options within Florida's subtropical climate zone, where average summer temperatures hover around 90°F with high humidity. Water management plays a crucial role in the region's ecology and recreation opportunities, with many campgrounds offering access to waterways connecting Lake Okeechobee to coastal areas. Terrain is generally flat with sandy soils that can challenge vehicles during certain seasons.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At McCarty Ranch Preserve, visitors can kayak on a large man-made lake. "All the sites face the huge lake that is available for fishing or kayaking, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails, wildlife and beautiful sunsets to view from your camp site," notes camper Lora S.
Wildlife observation: The camping areas near Indiantown provide excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Little Gopher camp, hikers can explore the Ocean to Lake trail. "A primitive campground on the Ocean to Lake trail, it is well maintained by the FTA-Lox chapter," explains reviewer J R., who adds, "I was able to get sporadic cell phone service while there."
Lock viewing: Watching boats navigate the canal locks is a popular activity at campgrounds along the waterways. "Located just minutes off of Indiantown Road at I-95, getting in and out of here is no problem. Tucked into a beautiful green spot next to the St. Lucie Canal, this hidden gem is a must if you're just looking to get away from the grind for a weekend," explains David R. about St. Lucie South.
What campers like
Free camping options: The DuPuis Family Campground requires no fee but does need a permit from South Florida Water Management District. "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 to provide shade. First come first serve," reports J R., who adds, "Two cars, two tents, 6 people max per camp site."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently appreciate the well-maintained amenities at St Lucie South. "The hosts keep the grounds and bathhouse spotless and noise after hours was never an issue for us," reports Dean, who adds, "The location lends itself to Stuart, FL and any type of food choices you may want."
Water views: Many camping spots near Indiantown, Florida provide scenic water views. At Waters Edge Motor Coach & RV Resort, the canal-side setting creates a premium experience. "We camped here last week. Very nice facility. Very clean. Nicely landscaped. Right on the canal," reports Kevin A.
What you should know
Insect activity: Bugs can be numerous, particularly in warmer months and near water sources. "Super buggy bring Deet. We had this spot almost entirely to ourselves. Came on a Thursday afternoon. Left just as other ppl were filling in on Saturday morning," notes Kurt D. about DuPuis Campground at Gate 3.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water with distinctive qualities. At DuPuis Campground at Gate 3, a camper reported, "Upon arrival, the camp host informed us not to drink the water. I found that advice ironic since this is managed by the water district. There was a sign near the front of the campground that said the water was fine to drink and did not need to be boiled, but we heeded his advice."
Alligator awareness: Be watchful around waterways as alligators are present. "The tent sites are on the canal and watching the boats come in to use the lock is nice however, we were warned against paddle boarding the canal due to alligators. Swimming is not permitted. Our last morning at the site, we saw a 3-5 foot alligator trolling around just off our site," reports a camper about St. Lucie South.
Tips for camping with families
State park activities: Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers diverse family-friendly recreation opportunities. "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We live the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages," notes Edward R.
Site selection for privacy: Choose your campsite strategically for better separation from neighbors. "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," explains Laura M. about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Outdoor education: Take advantage of ranger programs and interpretive trails. "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," recommends Karen about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Tips from RVers
Solar options: Off-grid campers can find suitable spots for solar power at some campgrounds. At DuPuis Campground, one camper reported, "We were able to get a nice spot near the camp host that was perfect for solar. This is an equestrian campground, but there is a section for non-equestrian campers."
Connectivity information: Cell service varies by location and carrier. "We had no trouble with connectivity as we had 3-4 bars on Verizon and AT&T hotspots without booster," notes a camper about DuPuis Campground, while at Phipps Park Campground, RVers can expect reliable service for most major carriers.
Site surfaces: RV pads vary across camping spots near Indiantown. "Nice paved sites with plenty of room," reports Jamie about Waters Edge Motor Coach & RV Resort, while at DuPuis, campers note, "Plenty of room to park any size RV, but it is soft sand so be warned."
