Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park is Southeast Florida’s wilderness escape—10,500 acres of pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub, and the pristine Loxahatchee River, Florida’s first federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Take a boat tour to Trapper Nelson’s 1930s pioneer homestead, paddle the blackwater river, and explore Florida’s ancient landscape. Located between Jupiter and Stuart, this is the largest state park in Southeast Florida and a critical refuge for Florida scrub-jays, gopher tortoises, and manatees.
📢 February 2026 Updates
- Hobe Mountain Tower: CLOSED for major restoration (no reopening date announced)
- Swim Area: CLOSED since October 2025
- Kimbell Education Center: New hours – Thu-Mon 9AM-5PM (closed Tue/Wed)
- Trapper Nelson Tours: Running Thu-Mon, weather/tide permitting
Trapper Nelson Boat Tours
The legendary “Wildman of the Loxahatchee” built a frontier homestead in the 1930s—today you can visit by boat!
| Tour Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 🚤 Vessel | Loxahatchee Queen pontoon boat |
| ⏱️ Duration | 90 minutes |
| 📅 Schedule | Thursday through Monday |
| 🏠 Site Hours | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Nov-Apr), closed Tue/Wed off-season |
| 📞 Reservations | (561) 746-1466 |
| ⚠️ Note | Tide-dependent; canoe/kayak access also available |
Loxahatchee River – Wild & Scenic
| River Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏆 Designation | Florida’s FIRST federally designated Wild & Scenic River |
| 🛶 Paddling | Kayak/canoe access to Trapper Nelson site |
| 🐊 Wildlife | Manatees, alligators, herons, ospreys |
| 🎣 Fishing | Freshwater and saltwater species |
Hobe Mountain – Highest Point South of Okeechobee
| Hobe Mountain | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Elevation | 86 feet (highest natural point south of Lake Okeechobee) |
| 🗼 Tower Status | ⚠️ CLOSED for major restoration project |
| 🔧 Upgrades | Safety improvements, possible accessibility ramp |
| 📅 Reopening | Not yet announced—check official website |
Camping – 142 Sites in Two Campgrounds
| Campground | Sites | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🌲 Pine Grove | 90 sites | Full hookups (water/electric/sewer) |
| 🌊 River Campground | 52 sites | Waterfront on Loxahatchee River! |
| Camping Fees (2026) | Rate |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Campsite | $26/night + tax |
| 📋 Reservation Fee | $6.70 (non-refundable) |
| ⚡ RV Utility Fee | $7/night (not for tents) |
| 🏠 Cabins (Peak Nov-Apr) | $95/night + tax |
| 🏠 Cabins (Off-Season) | $85/night + tax |
📅 Book Early!
Campsites are often sold out. Florida residents can book 11 months ahead; non-residents 10 months. For equestrian or primitive camping, call the ranger station at (772) 546-2771.
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Entry Fee | $6/vehicle, $4/single occupant, $2/pedestrian |
| 📐 Size | 10,500 acres (largest in SE Florida) |
| 📍 Location | Between Jupiter and Stuart, Martin County |
| 🕐 Hours | 8 AM – Sundown, 365 days/year |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Trapper Nelson?
Trapper Nelson (Vincent Nostokovich, 1909-1968) was the legendary “Wildman of the Loxahatchee” who built a frontier homestead on the river in the 1930s. He trapped animals, ran a small zoo, and lived a primitive lifestyle that attracted curious visitors by boat. His mysterious death in 1968 added to his legend. Today, ranger-guided boat tours on the Loxahatchee Queen take visitors to his preserved homestead, where you can see his buildings and hear his story.
Is the Hobe Mountain observation tower open in 2026?
No. As of February 2026, the Hobe Mountain Observation Tower is closed for a major restoration project. The tower, which offers views from the highest natural point south of Lake Okeechobee (86 feet), is being overhauled for safety and may receive accessibility improvements. No reopening date has been announced—check the official park website for updates.
Can you kayak to Trapper Nelson’s site?
Yes! While the Loxahatchee Queen boat tour is popular, you can also paddle to Trapper Nelson’s homestead by canoe or kayak. The journey follows Florida’s first federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Access is tide-dependent, so check conditions before launching. Kayak and canoe rentals are available in the park.
Can you swim at Jonathan Dickinson State Park?
Not currently. The park’s swim area has been closed since October 2025. Check the official Florida State Parks website for updates on when it may reopen. In the meantime, nearby beaches (such as Hobe Sound Beach) offer swimming alternatives.
Is Jonathan Dickinson State Park worth visiting?
Absolutely! Despite current closures (tower, swim area), Jonathan Dickinson remains Southeast Florida’s premier wilderness destination. The Trapper Nelson boat tour is unique in Florida. Paddling the Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River is world-class. With 10,500 acres, 142 campsites, and critical habitat for Florida scrub-jays and manatees, it’s an essential stop for nature lovers. Just check current closure status before your visit.
🛶 Wild & Scenic Adventure
Explore the legendary Loxahatchee, visit Trapper Nelson’s homestead, and discover 10,500 acres of Florida wilderness. Visit the official Jonathan Dickinson State Park website for current closure updates and boat tour reservations.
