Camping cabins near West Palm Beach, Florida offer lakefront, riverfront, and wildlife viewing options for visitors seeking overnight accommodations. The area sits in Florida's subtropical climate zone where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity from May through October. Winter camping season (November-April) sees increased demand as temperatures moderate to 70-80°F during the day, making reservations essential for cabin rentals during these peak months.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Jonathan Dickinson State Park features trails suitable for various skill levels. "This is an awesome campground for family's. Tons to do. We live the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages," notes Edward R. about Pine Grove Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: River Campground at Jonathan Dickinson State Park provides direct water access. "Took a 3 hour canoe trip, $25 well spent," shares Brian M. about the River Campground experience.
Safari wildlife viewing: Located adjacent to Lion Country Safari, the KOA campground offers discounted safari tickets. "Great location near the Safari park with discounted tickets available. I recommend staying here if you are going to the Safari Park and need a place to stay," recommends Coral W. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Hiking Hobe Mountain: The observation tower provides panoramic views. "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," says Karen about her experience at River Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The sounds of exotic animals create a unique camping atmosphere. "Very nice KOA, clean well presented, friendly staff. The lions waking you up in the morning is really pretty cool," reports Jan H. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Waterfront views: Campsites and cabins with water access provide scenic settings. "I have the trailer slot directly on the water very nice view. Pet friendly and kid friendly. Not too far from town," explains James M. about Lovie's RV and Trailer Park.
Resort amenities: Some properties offer extensive facilities beyond basic camping. "Rustic. Freedom. Old timers. Families. AANR. Pool is heated comfortably year round. Sauna. Hot tub restaurant fitness laundry pool table clubhouse," describes Sandra C. regarding the features at Sunsport Gardens Family Naturist Resort.
Proximity to beaches: Many campgrounds provide convenient access to Atlantic coast beaches. "The Lake to Ocean trail runs through here if you're looking for a multi day hike with primitive camping, just avoid the wet season because water gets quite deep," advises Jennifer L. about Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug protection is necessary year-round but especially during warmer months. "Forgot my fan and almost eaten alive saved by Off," warns Brian M. about his experience at River Campground.
Seasonal considerations: May through October brings higher temperatures, humidity, and fewer visitors. "May is the very end of the season, so it was nice and quiet," notes Pavel T. about cabin camping at River Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Local fauna includes various species that campers should respect. "Saw a pair of sandhill cranes, on our way into our camp. They were huge! Lizards everywhere, rabbits, birds. No alligators though. Would've like to see 1 or 2," reports AileenJoyce about her River Campground stay.
Campsite privacy: Site selection impacts the camping experience significantly. "The campground is pretty tight & the sites aren't very attractive but being next to the safari is awesome! You can hear the lions loud & clear!!" explains Amanda W. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Plan arrival before sunset: Navigating unfamiliar campgrounds becomes challenging after dark. "We were caught in a few traffic jams on the way in, and ended up arriving half an hour after sunset," cautions Ron M. about his experience at Yacht Haven Park & Marina.
Bring entertainment options: Campgrounds offer varied activities but having backup plans helps. "We tent camped here. Site small and sandy but location is the key to this KOA. Right next to Lion Country Safari. We are used to hearing birds and frogs when we camp, but here it is lions...and other noises I was not able to identify," shares Jeffrey W. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Secure food items: Local wildlife may investigate unsecured provisions. "The Raccoons like to come out in the evening, so make sure you pick up you garbage at night. The rabbits were having fun playing in the primitive camping area every evening and early morning hours," advises Burton M. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Research campground rules: Policies vary significantly between properties. "Hands down best location & customer service I have experienced. The location is gorgeous, amenities, luxurious feel, convenient services including mail delivery and door services including groceries and Uber rides," explains Charles about Yacht Haven Park & Marina.
Tips from RVers
Call ahead for site specifics: Ensure your RV fits the designated space before arrival. "We also told them we were in a 45 foot fifth wheel. The process to make our reservation took 5 phone calls. Every call was like starting from scratch," cautions Ron M. about Yacht Haven Park & Marina.
Water and electric hookup locations: Position varies between campgrounds and may require extra hoses or cords. "We were unable to hook up to sewer, and had to run our electric cable and water hose under the camper. Luckily we were able to reach," explains Ron M. about Yacht Haven Park & Marina.
Consider seasonal rates: Prices fluctuate significantly between peak and off-peak times. "Camp site were $90 a night. Our campsite have a nice view of the maintenance building. It was kind cool hearing the lions roar / huff during the night and morning though," reports Craig O. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Security deposits: Some campgrounds require temporary holds for after-hours access. "The campground is gated during evening hours with the gate closing at 10:00 pm, so you will need to get a gate key card with a $20.00 deposit which will be refunded when you turn the key back at the end of your stay," explains Burton M. about West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
