Primitive camping and equestrian sites provide alternatives to established campgrounds near West Palm Beach, Florida. The subtropical climate creates camping conditions suitable year-round with temperatures averaging 75-85°F in summer months. Wildlife management areas and state parks throughout Palm Beach County accommodate various camping styles from tent sites to RV hookups.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing trips: Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers rentals for $25 for a 3-hour canoe trip. Brian M. notes, "Took a 3 hour canoe trip, $25 well spent. Next day rented a bike. Good hiking trails too."
Mountain biking trails: The area features both paved and off-road trails suitable for various skill levels. At Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Edward R. states, "We live the mountain biking trails. Perfect for all levels and ages."
Wildlife viewing: J.W. Corbett WMA provides open spaces for nature observation without developed amenities. Lisa C. mentions, "Although this area doesn't have full hookups, it does provide plenty of room to camp, hike, nature view and hunting plus more!"
What campers like
Diverse terrain: The region offers everything from river access to ocean proximity. At Pine Grove Campground, Jennifer L. shares, "Conveniently located but feels like miles away from civilization. Stretches from the ocean to outer areas."
Trail connectivity: Multiple trail systems link camping areas with natural features. Janet H. explains, "Large park with miles of paved and off road trails for biking and hiking. Lots to do, horse back riding, boat tours, discovery center, bird watching, off road bike challenge course."
Observation points: Several parks feature elevated viewing areas for landscape photography. Karen notes about Jonathan Dickinson, "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."
What you should know
Weather preparation: South Florida's heat requires proper planning, especially for tent campers. Arnaldo N. warns 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."
Reservation systems: Most established campgrounds require advance booking while primitive sites may have different procedures. J R. advises about DuPuis Campground, "FREE stay, register at the SFWMD site and request a permit. You need the code for the combination lock to open the gate which is included with the permit."
Insect protection: Bug spray is essential equipment for campers in this region. Brian M. cautions, "Forgot my fan and almost eaten alive saved by Off."
Cell reception: Coverage varies between camping locations. Laura M. reports, "Good cell reception with AT&T and Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection for tents: Certain areas provide better tent camping experiences. Michael S. advises, "They have two parts. First one is few miles from main hwy with primitive sites for tents and small RVs. We stayed in the Tent in the section closer to the highway. Very nice and clean."
Wildlife encounters: Families can spot native Florida species throughout the area. Janet H. shares at DuPuis Campground, "We've seen otter, tortoise, birds, eagles so far."
Site occupancy limits: Campsites have specific capacity restrictions. J R. notes, "Two cars, two tents, 6 people max per camp site. The sites surround a pond."
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Horse campgrounds near West Palm Beach, Florida accommodate various vehicle sizes. Lisa C. states about J.W. Corbett WMA Primitive Camp, "It does provide plenty of room to camp, hike, nature view and hunting plus more!"
Site terrain variations: Different campground loops offer varying surface types. Laura M. observes, "This park has paved loops with gravel pads, fire pits, BBQ, tables, playground and much to offer in terms of hiking, biking and boating/kayaking."
Layout differences: RV sites vary between campground sections. Janet H. explains, "Nice sites in two campgrounds. We're in River CG, more shade, a few paved sites but most are dirt/mud. The Pine Grove CG close to entrance, more spacious, not much shade, paved and nice gravel sites."