Port St. Lucie camping offers diverse water access options with both freshwater marshland and Atlantic Ocean proximity. Most campgrounds sit at elevations under 25 feet, creating flat, accessible terrain. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally dip into the 40s, requiring different camping preparations depending on season.
What to do
Kayaking on St. Lucie Canal: Rent equipment at St. Lucie South campground where you can launch directly from the property. "Kayakers were out this trip. Wildlife and remember no feeding the gators," notes a visitor to St Lucie South, which offers excellent water access for paddlers.
Observe lock operations: Watch boats navigate the waterway system connecting Lake Okeechobee to the Atlantic. "You're right at the locks so watch the boats pass from the gulf to the Ocean," writes Mike Y. about St. Lucie South, adding interest to your camping experience.
Birding along marshlands: Early morning offers prime wildlife viewing at Phipps Park where campers report seeing "white ibis, blue heron" among the water lilies. A visitor described the experience as "adorable, enchanting island camping amongst water lilies, turtles, white ibis, blue heron and friendly folks."
Mountain biking trails: Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers both beginner and advanced biking options. "Great park for mountain biking," notes Edward R., who recommends the diverse trail system suitable for "all levels and ages."
What campers like
Direct waterfront sites: Phipps Park Campground offers premium camping directly on the water. "We were able to be right on the water, very nice," reported Liz M., highlighting the riverfront access.
Clean facilities at budget prices: Savannas Recreation Area maintains high standards despite reasonable rates. One camper noted, "Rates are within line at 25.00 night. No senior rates..." while another mentioned "Full hookups; water, sewer, 50 amp" that add value to the stay.
Proximity to urban conveniences: Most Port St. Lucie campgrounds offer quick access to stores. Road Runner Travel Resort visitors appreciate the location, with one camper noting it has a "great general store" and is "close to variety of shopping. Ocean is 20-30 mins away."
Concrete pads at RV sites: Ocean Breeze Resort offers well-constructed sites with amenities. "The RV pads each had a propane barbecue and had enough space for our 27 foot RV and ram 2500 crew cab with room to spare," reported Tom G. about the site quality.
What you should know
Train noise impacts some campgrounds: Ocean Breeze Resort sits near active train tracks. "The campsite is right by the train tracks to Miami, and it feels like the train is barreling through your van. This goes on all night," warns Wolfram B.
Seasonal booking challenges: Winter months bring northern visitors who fill campgrounds. At Road Runner Travel Resort, "They book for next winter beginning in March every year," according to Kathy S., making advance planning crucial.
Alligator awareness required: Camping with pets requires vigilance near water. "WARNING!!! Please be careful walking your dog. Alligators are in the park where people seem to not notice," cautions Annell N. at Phipps Park, adding that alligators appear even away from water areas.
Tent camping limitations: Some parks better serve RVs than tent campers. Jenna E. notes Phipps Park is "pretty much a wide open field, there is no separation between the sites" and "very close to a highway which can be loud."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Treasure Coast RV Park offers kid-friendly amenities near camping areas. "Pool, pond, bingo, ice cream night, free breakfast Tuesdays and Friday night band by the pool (huge heated pool)" make it entertaining for multiple age groups according to Whit J.
Beach proximity considerations: When choosing a campground, note beach access options. One camper at Road Runner Travel Resort shared, "There is a really nice beach for kids 15 mins away on Hutchinson island."
Water safety protocols: Establish clear rules about approaching water features. At Phipps Park, campers were "warned against paddle boarding the canal due to alligators. Swimming is not permitted," according to a visitor who spotted "a 3-5 foot alligator trolling around just off our site."
Biking opportunities: Jonathan Dickinson State Park provides paved and natural trails where families can ride together. A visitor mentioned the park has "miles of paved and off road trails for biking and hiking" making it ideal for family outings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie KOA, campers recommend requesting sites away from highway noise. "We appreciate that we were tucked in at the rear of the property which lessened the road noise," noted Lee D.
Utility connection placement: At Savannas Recreational Park, site numbers affect hookup accessibility. "Even number sites tend to be the best as power sewer and electric would be on left side. Odd number sites you are going to need extra length power cords, hose and sewer connection," explains Mike Y.
Cellular connectivity options: Multiple carriers function well at Treasure Coast RV Park. "Cell service is solid on T Mobile and Verizon. T Mobile bounces between 5G and LTE, Verizon stayed on LTE," reports Ari A., noting both worked for video calls despite variable speeds.
Length-specific site recommendations: Larger rigs should target specific campgrounds. St. Lucie South features "Sites on river will hold 45' class A," according to a reviewer, making it suitable for bigger motorhomes.
