Camping near Pomme De Terre Lake in Florida provides diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts across St. Lucie and Martin counties. The region features freshwater wetland habitats with elevations typically less than 20 feet above sea level. During winter months (November through March), campers experience mild temperatures between 60-75°F with lower humidity, making it the most comfortable season for tent camping.
What to do
Canoe rentals: Savannas Recreation Area offers affordable kayak rentals at $5 per hour where visitors can explore the marsh waterways. "Very clean park, Great facilities camping fees include water, sewer, electric, wifi, fire ring, picnic table, Shower house, laundry house, picnic pavilion, tennis, basketball, and kayak rental," notes one visitor to Savannas Recreation Area.
Mountain biking trails: Jonathan Dickinson State Park features trails suitable for various 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," writes Edward R. about Pine Grove Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The wetland habitats host diverse bird species and reptiles. "We've seen otter, tortoise, birds, eagles so far," reports a camper at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The park also offers "miles of paved and off road trails for biking and hiking."
Lock watching: St. Lucie South provides unique opportunities to observe boat traffic through the lock system. "It's awesome to watch the boats come and go," mentions Lorilee S., while another camper notes, "You are able to tour the locks walk across them," though tours may be temporarily unavailable at certain times.
What campers like
Water access: The canal-side camping at St. Lucie South offers prime waterfront locations. "The tent sites all are on the St. Lucie canal and do not have water to the sites although, water is available from the tap just across the street," explains Dean about St Lucie South.
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained bathhouses and grounds at Army Corps of Engineers sites. "The hosts keep the grounds and bathhouse spotless and noise after hours was never an issue for us," writes a reviewer about St. Lucie South.
Shade options: While some sites lack tree coverage, others provide ample shade. "Shady Pines Camp area is best for tenters, with several tent only sites. The sites aren't large but fairly private due to foliage," shares Jennifer L. about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Free amenities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected perks beyond standard facilities. At Savannas Recreation Area, visitors appreciate the "lending store large selection of books, dvd's, music cd's to borrow. Bring your old ones to donate," as one camper mentioned.
What you should know
Site selection limitations: At several campgrounds, you cannot choose your specific site. "The downside is that you are not allowed to select your own campsite," notes Steve B. about Savannas Recreational Park, a sentiment echoed across multiple locations.
Reservation timing: Popular parks fill quickly, especially during winter months. "Make your reservations early as it books up a year ahead of time," advises an experienced camper at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Alligators are present in many water bodies throughout the region. "We were warned against paddle boarding the canal due to alligators. Swimming is not permitted. Out last morning at the site, we saw a 3-5 foot alligator trolling around just off our site," reports a visitor to St. Lucie South.
Seasonal insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly during warmer months. "Super buggy bring Deet," warns one camper at DuPuis Campground, while another mentioned being "almost eaten alive saved by Off."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs and nature centers. "The park has plenty or space for RV and their hook ups. I would recommend this area if you love to go kayaking (also bring bug spray)," suggests Nick P. about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Playground facilities: Families with children will appreciate the recreational amenities. "Great site for a day trip or a weekend. Lots of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Conveniently located but feels like miles away from civilization," notes a visitor to Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Safety considerations: Parents should be vigilant near water areas. "WARNING!!! Please be careful walking your dog. Alligators are in the park where people seem to not notice. We educated people when we were there. They thought that just because they were not on the water side of the campground they would not see alligators," cautions Annell N. at Savannas Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site hookup variations: RV campers should check specific hookup configurations. "All RV sites have water 30 and 50 amp service. Sites on river will hold 45' class A," explains a reviewer at St. Lucie South. However, "Sewer is not available. Dump station near exit on way out."
Signal connectivity: Cell service is variable but generally adequate. "2 to 3 bars of Verizon, Sprint, and AT&T (we use all three) ensure a pretty decent cell connection for keeping in touch," reports David R. about St. Lucie South.
Site surface considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "Paved loops with gravel pads, fire pits, BBQ, tables, playground," describes one camper about Jonathan Dickinson, while at DuPuis Campground, visitors note "it is soft sand so be warned."
