Best Campgrounds near Jupiter, FL
Camping in the Jupiter, Florida area ranges from developed state parks to smaller camping areas along waterways and nature preserves. Jonathan Dickinson State Park serves as the primary camping destination, offering two distinct campgrounds—Pine Grove near the entrance and River Campground along the Loxahatchee River. The park accommodates tent camping, RVs, and cabin rentals with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Nearby options include St. Lucie South campground with primitive tent sites along the canal and limited RV spaces, as well as Juno Ocean Walk RV Resort closer to the Atlantic beaches.
Access and conditions vary significantly by season, with Florida's subtropical climate influencing the camping experience. Summer months bring higher temperatures, humidity, and insects, while winter offers milder conditions that attract seasonal visitors. "We stayed here during a very HOT weekend May/June 2020. The bugs are pretty bad. Bring your OFF and screened shelters. No-see-ums were bad in the evening, and flies were plenty all day," noted one camper about Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Many campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during winter months when northern visitors seek warmer camping destinations. Cell service remains generally reliable throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting 3-4 bars on major carriers.
The waterfront camping experiences define much of the region's appeal, with the Loxahatchee River and Atlantic coast providing scenic backdrops. Campgrounds near water often feature boat ramps, fishing opportunities, and paddling access. According to one visitor at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, "Really had a fantastic time at this campground... you could also rent boats and paddle up river alongside manatees to the wild man encampment." Beyond water activities, the area's campgrounds connect to extensive trail systems for hiking and biking, with Jonathan Dickinson specifically noted for its "miles of paved and off road trails for biking and hiking." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with campers reporting sightings of alligators, manatees, otters, and numerous bird species across the various camping areas.