Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers tent, RV, and cabin camping options across two campgrounds within 20 minutes of Jensen Beach. The Pine Grove Campground features paved pads with gravel sites and more open spaces, while the River Campground provides increased shade but predominantly dirt and mud sites. Both sections maintain clean facilities and provide access to the park's extensive trail system.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Jonathan Dickinson State Park contains trails suitable for riders of all experience levels. "We love the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages," writes Edward R., who visits the park with his family.
Kayaking and canoe trips: The park's location near the Loxahatchee River creates opportunities for paddling adventures. "Took a 3 hour canoe trip, $25 well spent," shares Brian M., who recommends this activity for visiting campers.
Hiking and wildlife viewing: J.W. Corbett WMA Primitive Camp provides free primitive camping with excellent access to nature trails. "Although this area doesn't have full hookups, it does provide plenty of room to camp, hike, nature view and hunting plus more!" notes Lisa C.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many visitors highlight the well-maintained bathroom facilities at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. "Clean shower and toilet areas," reports Karen, while Brian M. adds, "Restrooms super clean, quiet all day and night."
Natural privacy: The vegetation between campsites offers more seclusion than aerial views suggest. Laura M. discovered, "Was pleasantly surprised that the scrub around the sites is tall making sites more private than the view from Google."
Scenic overlooks: The observation tower provides unique elevated views of the surrounding landscape. "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.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: At Jonathan Dickinson, advance planning helps secure better spots. Brian M. cautions, "One warning if you reserve through toll free service there is a $6 charge and they put me in a terrible spot."
Free primitive camping: DuPuis Campground offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "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 provide shade," explains J R.
Insect preparation: Bugs can be problematic in the Jensen Beach area, especially during warmer months. "Forgot my fan and almost eaten alive saved by Off," recounts Brian M. about his July camping experience at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Variety of activities: Families appreciate the diverse recreation options at Pine Grove Campground. "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do," confirms Edward R.
Short-term family stays: The accessible location makes Jonathan Dickinson viable for brief family camping trips. Michael S. explains, "Great one night with kids. Had fire and bbq with kids."
Tent camping with children: Specific areas within Jonathan Dickinson work better for families with tents. "Shady Pines Camp area is best for tenters, with several tent only sites. The sites aren't large but fairly private due to foliage," suggests Jennifer L.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions and amenities: RV campers should know that Jonathan Dickinson offers both paved and unpaved sites. Janet H. explains, "Nice sites in two campgrounds. We're in River CG, more shade, a few paved sites but most are dirt/mud. The Pine Grove CG close to entrance, more spacious, not much shade, paved and nice gravel sites."
Weather considerations: Summer camping without air conditioning can be challenging in this region. Arnaldo N. advises, "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."
Nearby conveniences: The proximity to stores and services enhances the camping experience. "Another good thing is that it is close to the city with a huge Publix nearby," mentions Arnaldo N. about camping at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
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