Best Campgrounds near Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Campgrounds near Palm Beach Gardens, Florida range from state parks to private resorts, offering diverse accommodation options for outdoor enthusiasts. Jonathan Dickinson State Park, located about 20 miles north in Hobe Sound, features two distinct camping areas: Pine Grove Campground near the entrance and River Campground along the Loxahatchee River. Other notable options include John Prince Park Campground in Lake Worth and several KOA locations throughout the region. Most campgrounds provide both tent and RV sites, while select locations like West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA and Jonathan Dickinson State Park also offer cabin accommodations.
Camping in this region requires planning around Florida's distinct seasons and weather patterns. Summer months bring high temperatures, humidity, and increased insect activity, particularly no-see-ums and mosquitoes in the evenings. Winter months (November through April) offer milder temperatures and are generally considered the prime camping season, though reservations become more competitive during this period. Most established campgrounds in the area provide water and electric hookups, with many offering full sewer connections for RVs. Cell coverage is generally reliable throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting good connectivity for major carriers. A review mentioned that "Jonathan Dickinson SP has two campgrounds. Pine Grove Campground has 90 sites, it is located near the ranger station. These large sites have more space between and foliage for privacy."
The campground experiences in this region often center around water access and natural features. Several visitors highlighted the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including manatees, alligators, and diverse bird species. Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites at John Prince Park Campground and the St. Lucie Lock areas, which provide access to paddling, fishing, and boating. Jonathan Dickinson State Park receives consistent praise for its extensive trail system, with miles of hiking and biking opportunities through Florida's natural landscapes. A recent review noted that the park offers "miles of paved and off-road bike and hike trails, great bird watching, star gazing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing." While many campgrounds are located near urban areas, they often provide surprising natural immersion and recreational activities that make them popular with both locals and tourists.