Stuart, Florida features multiple campground options along the Treasure Coast, ranging from state park facilities to Army Corps of Engineers sites. Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers two distinct campgrounds—Pine Grove near the entrance with more spacious, paved sites suitable for larger RVs, and River Campground located four miles into the park along the Loxahatchee River with a more natural setting. St. Lucie South, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, provides both primitive tent sites along the canal and RV sites with water and electric hookups. Several private RV resorts are scattered throughout the area, including Phipps Park Campground and Ocean Breeze Resort in nearby Jensen Beach.
Temperatures remain warm year-round, making this region suitable for camping in all seasons, though summer brings higher humidity, mosquitoes, and no-see-ums. Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially during winter months when seasonal residents from northern states increase demand for camping spots. The area's proximity to water influences both the camping experience and wildlife viewing opportunities, with several locations offering boat ramps and paddling access. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting 3-4 bars on major carriers without boosters. A camper noted, "St. Lucie South is a small campground run by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Located just outside Stuart, the site is on the St. Lucie lock and dam with only 3 primitive tent sites and maybe 10 RV sites."
Waterfront camping draws many visitors to the Stuart area, with sites along the St. Lucie Canal and Loxahatchee River receiving positive reviews. Campers particularly appreciate the abundant recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing. Jonathan Dickinson State Park stands out for its extensive trail system and river access. Several visitors mentioned wildlife viewing as a highlight, with alligators, manatees, and various bird species commonly spotted. Privacy between sites varies significantly across campgrounds in the region. The Pine Grove Campground features more open sites with limited shade, while the River Campground offers better tree coverage but smaller sites. Public lands like DuPuis Campground provide free alternatives with more primitive amenities. Many reviewers note the convenient location of Stuart-area campgrounds, allowing easy access to beaches, restaurants, and supplies while still providing a natural camping experience.
$26 / night
"The cost of camping in Florida isn't cheap though this one actually had the value in it given that you could also rent boats and paddle up river alongside manatees to the wild man encampment."
"Jonathon Dickinson SP, Jupiter Florida Dickinson SP Large park with miles of paved and off road trails for biking and hiking."
$20 - $35 / night
"Located just outside Stuart, FL. the site is located on the St. Lucie lock and dam. The park is small with only 3 primitive tent sites and maybe 10 RV sites.
The tent sites all are on the St."
"Located just minutes off of Indiantown Road at I-95, getting in and out of here is no problem. Tucked into a beautiful green spot next to the St."
"Awesome location for birds and wildlife. I've stopped here a few times heading across Florida camping etc. nearby town makes supplying easy."
"If you like kayaking and uniquely Florida nature, this is it. This is paradise. List marshlands with twists and cuts for paddling. Birds you never knew existed. Great fishing."
$40 - $60 / night
"Great biking, easy access to boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding.  close to beaches and shopping so there’s something for everybody to do. "
"Nice water access to the Atlantic and the Golf cost, power, water, safari tents, nice showers, nice people, not to mach shade."
"Walking distance to fun restaurants snd bar."
"Walk to town with shops and restaurants. Pool was wonderful with a snack bar and bar. We used the gym everyday. It was very clean. The bathrooms were very nice and clean."
$29 / night
"This is a great place set in the middle of Florida's marshland. Park like with plenty of trees, grass and water canals. The tent sites are close together so there's not much privacy."
"A quie park with well kept sites, plenty of bird sighting, walking trails, close to svenic A1A, and a number of restaurants and shopping, nestled in between quaint towns with plenty of things to do."
$26 - $95 / night
"Location is a bit busy and there's road noise from the freeway depending on where your site is but it's conveniently located between I95 and the Florida Turnpike."
"It’s full on snowbird season and it’s Florida (retired people)😬 So needless to say, it’s the worst time to start the “rv lifestyle “ Thankfully Treasure coast RV in Ft pierce was able to get us in several"
TravelerGravel road to get there Nice little place if you like hiking horse riding biking They offer a lot of trails They do have hike in camp and horse camp You’re gonna have to do your homework for the details
ScoutWill be back for sure
GuideThis is a great location near the water for fishing & kayaking
GuideThis place is so cool. All the sites are wrapped around a pond. Palm trees and all kinds of other shrubbery are throughout the campground. There are a couple of small alligators 🐊 in the pond and some big ole turtles 🐢. The campground host is very nice. They check out your reservation and leave you alone. I say, check it out. It's free. 👍
GuideEvery spot on the campground was great, and you can bring your boat up to shore on some.
TravelerWe stayed in Pine Grove loop. Long and wide sites with very easy access for backing and parking. Hookups very convenient and accessible. Sites are divided by vegetation providing a sense of privacy between neighboring sites, which are placed well apart from each other.
GuideGreat spot near the Sebastian inlet. Great place to bring you fishing pole and kayak
TravelerDefinitely try to get a spot on the water to observe a lot of wildlife bird. friendly people at the front desk. Restrooms are a little dated We are in February and the weather is amazing
GuideWe had a great time at this campsite. It’s out of the way, it’s very quiet (at least in the winter), even though the camp was nearly full. They do close the gates around sunset, so we had to park outside the camp and walk in. But that added a level of security for us, so we didn’t mind. Great camp!
Stuart, Florida camping destinations offer reliable services with paved sites at established campgrounds and primitive options for more adventurous visitors. Located along the Treasure Coast, Stuart maintains a subtropical climate with year-round camping opportunities. Access to water bodies ranges from riverfront sites to canal-adjacent camping, allowing anglers and paddlers direct water entry from several locations.
Kayaking the waterways: Savannas Recreational Park offers canoe rentals for exploring the marsh ecosystem. "This is paradise. List marshlands with twists and cuts for paddling. Birds you never knew existed. Great fishing. And of course, alligators. I could live there, easily," notes Amanda K. who visited the park.
Fishing opportunities: St Lucie South provides access to prime fishing spots along the canal. Visitors report, "Watch the boats come and go. Great picnic table, fire pit and BBQ in each spot," according to Lorilee S., highlighting the waterfront access.
Mountain biking trails: Pine Grove Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park features extensive biking trails suitable for various skill levels. Edward R. states, "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We love the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages."
Exploring Hobe Mountain: The observation tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding region. "The park is beautiful, must climb Hobe Mountain, the views are stunning. From there you can see both the intracoastal waterway and the Atlantic Ocean in one direction and sand dunes every other direction," recommends Karen at River Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Savannas Recreation Area provides opportunities to spot native species in their natural habitat. "We loved this place. Celebrated my sister's 65 birthday here. Spent 10 nights. Enjoyed the wildlife," says Carol B., who mentions gator sightings as a highlight.
Well-maintained facilities: Campground cleanliness receives positive comments from visitors to several Stuart area parks. At Savannas Recreational Park, Mike Y. notes, "2nd time here, secure area, friendly staff... Clean facilities. Friendly staff. Winter months hard to get a spot."
Water access: Camping directly adjacent to waterways ranks high among visitor preferences. At St Lucie South, Dean observes, "The tent sites are on the canal and watching the boats come in to use the lock is nice," though he cautions about alligator presence in the canal.
Variety of accommodation types: Options range from traditional tent sites to platform tents. A reviewer at Phipps Park Campground describes, "We brought our queen sized airmatress and it fits with plenty of space for changing clothes inside the adorable platform canvas tent home."
Alligator awareness: Multiple campgrounds report alligator sightings. At St Lucie South, Alex M. recounts, "There were lots of interesting animals to observe here, including flying fish, big tree lizards, big frogs that hopped out of the canal and onto my tent at night, and something that I'm fairly certain was a gator but never got a good look at."
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance is essential, particularly during winter months. Edward R. advises about Jonathan Dickinson State Park, "Make your reservations early as it books up a year ahead of time."
Site selection limitations: Some campgrounds assign sites rather than allowing campers to choose. At River Camground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Brian M. notes, "One warning if you reserve through toll free service there is a $6 charge and they put me in a terrible spot. Ranger claimed only a few others available, but it was July and almost empty."
Seasonal changes: Summer brings more insects and heat challenges. Arnaldo N. comments about Jonathan Dickinson State Park: "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."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Eric mentions that Savannas Recreation Area has a "Nice little park for the kids and close to the water."
Educational opportunities: Ocean Breeze Resort puts families within walking distance of town resources. Karen M. shares, "Walk to town with shops and restaurants. Pool was wonderful with a snack bar and bar. We used the gym everyday."
Swimming options: While natural water bodies often prohibit swimming due to alligators, campgrounds with pools provide safer alternatives. Ransom J. reports about Ocean Breeze Resort: "The facilities are amazing. Beautiful large pool with a bar and very clean modern bathrooms and showers."
Kid-friendly biking: Michael S. recommends Jonathan Dickinson State Park for family cycling: "Great park for mountain bikeing. Conveniently located but feels like miles away from civilization."
Site surface variations: Concrete pads versus gravel affects leveling requirements. Laura M. notes about Jonathan Dickinson State Park: "This park has paved loops with gravel pads, fire pit, BBQ, tables, playground and much to offer in terms of hiking, biking and boating/kayaking."
Utility connections: Placement of hookups affects parking orientation. At Treasure Coast RV Park, Ari A. explains, "All sites have water, sewer, 50-30-20 amp electric, and cable TV. Sites are nice size and while you're close to your neighbor there is a bit of a grass buffer."
Dump station procedures: Some facilities limit dumping frequency or charge additional fees. Mike Y. observes about St Lucie South: "the only downfall of being allowed to dump once per week or there is a fee of $20.00. There is no charge for a honey wagon dump."
Cell service reliability: For those needing connectivity, reception varies by carrier and location. David R. reports about St Lucie South: "2 to 3 bars of Verizon, Sprint, and AT&T (we use all three) ensure a pretty decent cell connection for keeping in touch."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Stuart, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Stuart, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 87 campgrounds and RV parks near Stuart, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Stuart, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Stuart, FL is Pine Grove Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 61 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Stuart, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Stuart, FL.
What parks are near Stuart, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Stuart, FL that allow camping, notably Pomme De Terre Lake and Lake Okeechobee.
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