Palm Beach County offers 2,600+ acres of established campgrounds with sites ranging from basic tent camping to full-service RV spots. Daytime temperatures in winter average 75-77°F, making November through April peak season for camping near Palm Beach. Florida's subtropical climate brings summer humidity with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September.
What to do
Water activities at Peanut Island: Campers access this tent-only island campground by boat, kayak or paddleboard. "Kayak and puddle board to snorkeling with beautiful fishes and manatee if you are lucky. The best place to spend on long weekends away from crowds and technology," notes Maimi T. from Peanut Island Campground.
Nature hiking at Jonathan Dickinson State Park: The park features miles of trails for wildlife viewing. "Great trails to ride your bike. Clean shower and toilet areas. Must climb Hobe Mountain, the views are stunning. From there you can see both the intracoastal waterway and the Atlantic Ocean," recommends Karen from Pine Grove Campground.
Safari wildlife viewing: The Lion Country Safari KOA provides unique animal encounters. "Waking up to lions roaring and bonobos scream in the morning was freaking amazing! I will treasure this memory for the rest of my life," shares Ian R. who stayed at West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA for five summer months.
What campers like
Waterfront camping locations: Lakeside sites provide both recreation and scenic views. "Located on Lake Osborne in Lake Worth, Florida the John Prince Campground has many waterfront sites which contain both power and potable water. Facilities were good and close and the staff was extremely kind," writes Daniel B. from John Prince Park Campground.
Convenient beach access: Coastal location puts campers near multiple beaches. "We absolutely loved this campground. Great location and just across the street from the fishing pier. Our site was all pavers and had ample space for our 34ft travel trailer," shares deb K. about their stay at Juno Ocean Walk RV Resort.
Spacious camping options: Some parks offer generous site sizing. "Wide sites that are very easy to pull through or back into. Immaculate laundry facilities. Short drive into West Palm Beach FL," notes Lynne C. about John Prince Park Campground. Another camper mentioned, "The campsites aren't large but fairly private due to foliage" at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Mosquitoes can be intense at certain times. "Beware of the gnats!!!" warns Pillo A. at John Prince Park. Another camper reported such severe mosquito swarms at Lion Country Safari KOA that "thermacells didn't even touch it. Couldn't even open the trailer door for a split second without 10 mosquitos flying in."
Seasonal crowding affects experience: Winter brings more campers and tighter quarters. "I was going to rent there, but it was so crowded that we would not be able to open our awnings and we were only allowed 1 car per spot," reports Carol C. about John Prince Park Campgrounds.
Limited shade at some parks: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains Arnaldo N. about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Explore state park educational programs: Jonathan Dickinson offers ranger-led activities. "If you get the chance take the river tour. We went on the one that goes to Trapper Nelson's place where you get a ranger guided walk. Totally worth the $25 fee," advises janet H. about River Camground.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Local wildlife provides educational opportunities. "Saw a pair of sandhill cranes, on our way into our camp. They were huge! Lizards everywhere, rabbits, birds," reports AileenJoyce from River Camground. Another camper enjoyed "watching the boats on the lake, taking pics of giant iguanas and talking to the squirrels" at John Prince Park.
Consider cabin options for less experienced campers: Several parks offer cabin alternatives. "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," advises Pavel T. about River Camground cabins.
Tips from RVers
Reserve lakefront sites early: Premium waterfront locations fill quickly. "We arrived after hours but were provided a gate code. Our site was on the water-difficult to back into bc of road obstructions and posts, but beautiful view!" notes Erika R. about her John Prince Park camping experience.
Check site dimensions for larger rigs: Size accommodation varies between parks. "Easy access, quiet campground on a lake. Many amenities including adjacent to driving range and golf course, bike and walking trails. Wide sites that are very easy to get into," reports Lynne C. about John Prince Park Campground for big rigs.
Consider location accessibility: Some parks offer better access than others. "Nice paved roads with meticulously kept grounds and flat cement pads. Our spot had over 90 digital channels of TV service and private (super fast) WIFI," explains T N T about their pet-friendly camping experience at Juno Ocean Walk RV Resort.
