Best Tent Camping near Stuart, FL

Jonathan Dickinson State Park near Stuart, Florida offers several primitive tent camping options, including Scrub Jay and Kitching Creek campgrounds accessible only by hiking trails. These tent-only sites provide a secluded backcountry experience within the park's diverse ecosystem. Additional tent camping opportunities can be found at DuPuis Campground, approximately 30 miles west of Stuart, and the unique boat-in tent sites at Peanut Island Campground in Riviera Beach. Little Gopher and Loop 4 campgrounds, located along the Ocean to Lake Trail, offer primitive tent camping with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.

Most tent campgrounds in the Stuart area require advance preparation as amenities are limited. Kitching Creek provides drinking water, fire rings, and basic toilet facilities, while Scrub Jay has picnic tables and toilets but no reliable water source. DuPuis Campground requires permits obtained through the South Florida Water Management District website, with sites featuring fire pits and picnic tables surrounding a pond. Campers should be aware of seasonal conditions, particularly during Florida's hot summer months and wet season. Water sources at some sites may be unreliable or require filtering, with several campers reporting discolored or sulfurous water from pumps.

The tent camping experience varies significantly between locations. According to reviews, Kitching Creek offers "serene solitude" and is more remote than Scrub Jay, which is located just 5 miles from the park entrance and better suited for beginners or families with children. Loop 4 campers report the site can accommodate large groups with "plenty of trees for hammock camping and shade," though water from the pump may require filtering. At Little Gopher, one visitor noted the site was "recently renovated with new poles for backpacks and benches" and is "well maintained by the FTA-Lox chapter." Peanut Island provides a unique tent camping experience accessible only by boat, with clean facilities but limited availability due to its popularity among weekend boaters.

Best Tent Sites Near Stuart, Florida (10)

    1. Scrub Jay Primitive Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park

    1 Review
    Hobe Sound, FL
    13 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "Although less pretty and less remote than Kitching Creek, it is only 5 mi from the park entrance, wich makes it perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children."

    3. Indiantown Marina

    1 Review
    Indiantown, FL
    19 miles
    +1 (772) 597-2455

    4. DuPuis Campground

    1 Review
    Indiantown, FL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (866) 433-6312

    "Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Various trees at the camp sites to provide shade. First come first serve. Two cars, two tents, 6 people max per camp site. The sites surround a pond."

    5. Loop 4

    2 Reviews
    Canal Point, FL
    25 miles
    Website

    "Plenty of trees for hammock camping and shade. There are two picnic tables/firepits and a water pump. However the water from the pump came out with a purple tinge and smelling of Sulphur."

    "this is a verynice campground with water pump, fire ring and picknic tables"

    6. Little Gopher

    3 Reviews
    Canal Point, FL
    27 miles
    Website

    "A primitive campground on the Ocean to Lake trail, it is well maintained by the FTA-Lox chapter."

    "little nice quiet camping spot away from civilization"

    7. Peanut Island Campground

    2 Reviews
    North Palm Beach, FL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (561) 845-4445

    "There are bathrooms with shower next to the campground. All sites are tent only sites and they are very close to each other. You can get two sites instead of one when available."

    "Kayak and puddle board to snorkeling with beautiful fishes and manatee if you are lucky;)

    The best place to spend on long weekends away from crowds and technology."

    8. Indian Prairie Canal RA

    1 Review
    Okeechobee, FL
    46 miles
    +1 (863) 946-0771

    "Yes it was hot and sweaty but thats what the lake is for. This is very sweet free camping. Theres maybe 10 sites here and you can't quite literally take a boat to the campsite."

    9. Blue Cypress County Park

    2 Reviews
    Fellsmere, FL
    49 miles
    +1 (772) 589-9223

    "It’s run by Middleton’s Fish Camp Park, so really this location on the map needs a name change.

    When you get here, you pay $10 per person to the bait shop for the night."

    10. FALCON RANCH

    Be the first to review!
    Fellsmere, FL
    44 miles
    +1 (786) 474-6920

    $60 - $120 / night

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Stuart, FL

3 Photos of 10 Stuart Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Stuart, FL

305 Reviews of 10 Stuart Campgrounds



Guide to Stuart

Discover the beauty of tent camping near Stuart, Florida, where nature meets adventure in a variety of scenic locations. From serene spots to well-equipped sites, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails at Little Gopher, which is well-maintained and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
  • For a unique experience, visit Peanut Island Campground, where you can kayak and snorkel among beautiful marine life.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to Lake Okeechobee from Indian Prairie Canal RA, where boat adventures await.

Tips for tent camping near Stuart

  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience at Scrub Jay Primitive Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park, which is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Always check water sources, as some campgrounds like Little Gopher do not have on-site water, but nearby canals can provide a source with proper filtration.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially at Loop 4, where you might encounter alligators while fetching water from nearby creeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Stuart, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Stuart, FL is Scrub Jay Primitive Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Stuart, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Stuart, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.