Port St. Lucie camping options range from waterfront sites along canals to wooded inland areas with varying levels of shade. The region sits at a low elevation of 10-20 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate that remains warm even in winter months, rarely dropping below 50°F. Cell service tends to be stronger at sites closer to main highways, with reception becoming more variable at campgrounds situated deeper in natural areas.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing at Savannas Recreation Area: Paddlers can rent equipment on-site for $5 per hour to explore the extensive marsh system. "We enjoyed renting a canoe for a couple hours. Laundry facility and restrooms are clean," noted Steve B., who appreciated the "[g]reat value" of this Savannas Recreation Area campground.
Watch boats navigate locks: St. Lucie South offers unique entertainment with its location directly at a lock and dam system. "It's awesome to watch the boats come and go," shares Lorilee S., who found the St Lucie South experience "very relaxing." The campground provides excellent viewing of boats transitioning between waterways.
Biking on paved trails: Many campgrounds connect to local bike paths. At Phipps Park, visitors praise the "paved and gravel trails throughout the small, but beautiful property." According to Tucker B., "There is a fishing pier, bike path along the river, boat launch area," making it easy to stay active during your visit.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple sites offer direct water access for fishing. The St. Lucie Canal provides habitat for various fish species. One camper noted that Savannas Recreation Area features "marshlands with twists and cuts for paddling. Birds you never knew existed. Great fishing."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Ocean Breeze Resort consistently receives praise for its upscale amenities. "The facilities are amazing. Beautiful large pool with a bar and very clean modern bathrooms and showers. Gym area and laundry as well," writes Ransom J. about the Ocean Breeze Resort experience.
Waterfront camping: Sites along the water earn high marks for views and cooling breezes. "We were able to be right on the water, very nice," shares Liz M. about Phipps Park Campground, which offers concrete pad sites directly facing the waterway.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention wildlife encounters as highlights. "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," reports Annell N., emphasizing the importance of wildlife awareness throughout campgrounds in this region.
Proximity to shopping: Many sites offer convenient access to necessities. "Close to everything in Ft Pierce. Staff is friendly. Full hookups and clean," notes John R. about the KOA's location. Another camper mentioned being able to "walk to Publix and the restaurant at the marina" from their campsite.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: 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., suggesting light sleepers may want earplugs.
Tent camping limitations: Several campgrounds have specific tent policies or challenging tent sites. At Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie KOA, Kate A. found that "Tent area provided zero privacy. It was basically a lineup of like 6 sites without any tree/bush coverage."
Reservation competition: Winter months bring heavy demand. At Road Runner Travel Resort, a reviewer noted: "They book for next winter beginning in March every year." Another camper mentioned that at Savannas Recreation Area, "Winter months hard to get a spot."
Seasonal site assignments: Some parks control site selection. At Savannas Recreation Area, Steve B. mentioned: "The downside is that you are not allowed to select your own campsite." This policy helps staff manage the property but may frustrate campers with specific site preferences.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with activity options: Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers diverse recreation for all ages. "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We love the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages," reports Edward R. about Pine Grove Campground.
Consider shade availability: Summer heat makes shade crucial. Arnaldo N. warns about Jonathan Dickinson: "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."
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Eric noted that Road Runner Travel Resort is "Clean, great general store" and mentioned the park was "Close to the water" with a "Nice little park for the kids."
Evaluate tent camping options: Families tent camping should research sites carefully. Jenna E. cautions about Phipps Park: "The campground is pretty much a wide open field, there is no separation between the sites. It is very close to a highway which can be loud."
Tips from RVers
Consider site spacing: At Road Runner Travel Resort, Mitchell praised the "property is clean with paved roads and super large lots that you just don't find anymore." This contrasts with many tightly packed RV parks in the region.
Long-term stay options: Several parks accommodate extended stays. Jessica A. notes: "Many people live here year-round, and even more live here for three or six months during winter" at Road Runner Travel Resort, which offers activities like "Bingo, karaoke, jam sessions, trivia night, pickleball, tennis, shuffleboard."
Look for concrete pads: In this region's sandy soil, concrete pads provide stability. "All sites are level and gravel with a fire pit and a brick patio area with a picnic table," notes one reviewer about the Fort Pierce KOA, while Treasure Coast RV Park offers "concrete pad for parking wide enough to sit with awning extended."
Water hookup variations: Water quality and hookup configurations differ between parks. Mike Y. observed at Savannas Recreational Park: "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."
