Jonathan Dickinson State Park sits within 30 minutes of Juno Beach, Florida, offering cabin rentals in both the Pine Grove and River Campground sections. The park spans over 11,500 acres of natural Florida landscape where campers can experience pine flatwoods, cypress sloughs, and sand pine scrub habitats. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, making it a popular destination for northern visitors seeking cabin accommodations during colder months.
What to do
Biking trails: Jonathan Dickinson State Park features extensive biking opportunities for all skill levels. "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. from Pine Grove Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rent equipment at the park to explore the Loxahatchee River. Brian M. shares, "Took a 3 hour canoe trip, $25 well spent. Next day rented a bike. Good hiking trails too." The waterways provide access to natural Florida ecosystems with minimal development along shorelines.
Wildlife viewing: Staying at West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA provides a unique safari experience. "You can hear the lions roar / huff during the night and morning though," says Craig O. The nearby safari park contains over 1,000 animals, with lions often heard from camping areas.
Hobe Mountain views: Climb the observation tower for panoramic views. Karen from River Campground explains, "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."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The cabins at Jonathan Dickinson State Park receive positive feedback for cleanliness. Lauren W. reports, "We have been at Jonathan Dickinson SP twice in several months. Beautiful, clean, and friendly!"
Natural surroundings: Road Runner Travel Resort offers cabin rentals with shaded sites. Mitchell notes, "On short notice they were able to find us a great shaded (large towering southern pines) spot which was much appreciated." The resort features paved roads and larger-than-average lots.
Convenience to beaches: Many cabin locations provide easy beach access. Jennifer L. mentions, "The sites aren't large but fairly private due to foliage. It's only a short walk to the beach from there."
Pool access: Several cabin rental locations include swimming pools. Jessica A. from Road Runner Travel Resort shares, "There's a large pool, a good-sized general/convenience store with all the essentials you might need, and a full restaurant right on site."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins book quickly, especially at popular parks. "Make your reservations early as it books up a year ahead of time," advises Edward R. about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Cabin amenities vary: Some cabins lack certain facilities. Pavel T. from River Camground shares, "I stayed at one of the cabins, and they were a little smelly, and lacked toiletries, but overall not too bad. Make sure you have all you need, since the store doesn't really carry anything besides snacks and it closes early anyway."
Limited shade: Some camping areas have minimal tree coverage. Arnaldo N. notes about Jonathan Dickinson, "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."
Pricing considerations: Cabin costs vary significantly between locations. Craig O. found, "Camp site were $90 a night" at West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA, while state park cabins typically cost $30-60 per night.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for cabin locations with dedicated facilities for children. Burton M. recommends Lion Country Safari KOA: "This campground that sits just outside of the only drive through animal safari with over 1,000 different types of animals, is great for families to enjoy."
Wildlife encounters: Many children enjoy the animal sightings. AileenJoyce from River Camground shares, "Saw a pair of sandhill cranes, on our way into our camp. They were huge! Lizards everywhere, rabbits, birds."
Store availability: Check if on-site supplies are available. Brian M. notes about Jonathan Dickinson, "People in boat shop - store super friendly. Ice, wood, etc available." This can reduce packing requirements for family trips.
Weather preparation: Florida heat impacts comfort levels. Arnaldo N. warns, "Coming in the summer was a bit tough staying here without an RV with air conditioning." Bring portable fans for cabin camping during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site preferences: Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie KOA offers both cabin and RV options. Lee D. shares, "All sites are level and gravel with a fire pit and a brick patio area with a picnic table. Typical RV park layout with minimal to no privacy separating sites."
Location benefits: Consider proximity to amenities when choosing cabin locations. Kevin S. notes about Fort Pierce KOA, "You can walk to Publix and the restaurant at the marina. Great place great manager. Clean and fun."
Insect management: Florida's climate supports mosquito populations. Daniel G. warns, "That's when we noticed that it was literally swarming with mosquitos. Pulled out 3 thermacells but the swarms were so bad they didn't even touch it." Bring strong repellent and protective clothing.
Noise factors: Some locations have unique sound environments. Jeffrey W. explains that at Lion Country Safari KOA, "We are used to hearing birds and frogs when we camp, but here it is lions...and other noises I was not able to identify."
