Cabin camping near Port St. Lucie, Florida offers access to both inland freshwater environments and coastal ecosystems. The area sits at an average elevation of just 16 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and high humidity levels. Most cabin rentals require advance booking of 11 months for peak winter season when temperatures moderate to 70-75°F daytime highs.
What to do
Boat tours to historic sites: At Jonathan Dickinson State Park, visitors can take a guided river tour to Trapper Nelson's historic homestead. "We went on the one that goes to Trapper Nelson's place where you get a ranger guided walk. Totally worth the $25 fee," notes a visitor at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Night sky viewing: Cabin campers seeking dark skies can venture to Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, Florida's only designated dark sky site. "The night sky was pretty dark but I couldn't see the Milky Way (there was a half moon during my stay). I must be spoiled by the night sky out west," explains a visitor at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park.
Water recreation options: Sebastian Inlet offers excellent fishing and water access directly from the campground. "Nice camp ground for fishing and bringing the boat along. Some spots are tight in the front row. The back loop has a little more room," shares a visitor from Sebastian Inlet State Park.
What campers like
Abundant wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding cabin rentals provide opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife. "We've seen otter, tortoise, birds, eagles so far. Nice sites in two campgrounds," reports a camper from Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Convenience to essentials: Many cabin camping locations offer easy access to supplies. "Close to town and well-kept... I was able to enjoy a 3-mile run to town and back on sidewalks," notes a visitor at Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie KOA.
Resort-style amenities: Some locations provide extensive recreational facilities beyond basic cabin amenities. "The park is probably the cleanest we had stayed in yet! There is a really nice beach for kids 15 mins away on Hutchinson island," shares a camper from Road Runner Travel Resort.
What you should know
Variable site privacy: Cabin sites range from private to densely arranged. "Little to no privacy. Very convenient to the restrooms and trash. Overall a good stay," explains a camper at River Camground regarding their experience.
Bug protection essential: Insects can be problematic in Florida's humid climate. "Forgot my fan and almost eaten alive saved by Off," reports one tent camper at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Remote locations require planning: Some cabin sites are far from services. "Be sure to fuel up and have plenty of groceries. Quiet and remote," advises a visitor to Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park.
Reservation timing matters: Popular cabin locations book well in advance. "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We live the mountain biking trails. Make your reservations early as it books up a year ahead of time," shares a camper at Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety for different ages: Many cabin camping areas offer activities suitable for various family members. "Great site for a day trip or a weekend. Lots of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The sites aren't large but fairly private due to foliage," reports a visitor to Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Kid-friendly wildlife encounters: Several locations provide safe wildlife viewing. "We saw a giant sea turtle bigger than a manhole cover. We watched dolphins play at sunrise. We were parked right across from the water. My husband and the kids fished off the rocks," shares a camper from Sebastian Inlet State Park.
Playground access: Some cabin locations include play facilities. "Desperate for a place to pitch our tent rather than spending $$$ for a hotel, we lucked up when we found VBK on The Dyrt. This quiet campground lined with moss covered oaks, palm trees and long leaf pines was a dream. They are set up mostly for RVs but have a few campsites," explains a visitor at Vero Beach Kamp.
Tips from RVers
Shade importance: Florida heat makes shade valuable for cabin campers. "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," notes a visitor to Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Proximity to beaches: Multiple cabin camping options provide beach access. "Amazing little campground right on the water. Clean restroom facilities. Close to beaches. People are friendly. If you're trying to surf or fish stay here!" explains a camper at Sebastian Inlet State Park.
Rental unit considerations: For those choosing rental cabins rather than personal RVs, amenities vary. "There is a large pool, a good-sized general / convenience store with all the essentials you might need, and a full restaurant right on site. The RV sites vary in size and set-up, most are level, most have a concrete patio," shares a visitor at Road Runner Travel Resort.