Jonathan Dickinson State Park lies along the historic Loxahatchee River and Hobe Mountain in Martin County, Florida, just 30 minutes north of West Palm Beach.
The area’s various habitats such as sand dunes, river swamps, mangroves, pine flatwoods and scrub forests provide visitors with opportunities for kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, camping and viewing wildlife.
This picturesque Florida state park has a lot of history, starting with Jonathan Dickinson, a Quaker merchant who was captured here by the Jobe Indians in 1696, and who the park is named for.
Activities
When you visit Jonathan Dickinson State Park you’ll have a chance to learn more about the park’s namesake as well as the secret World War II training camp that was once located here; and about Trapper Nelson, the legendary Wild Man of the Loxahatchee, who lived off the land during the 1930s and opened Trapper’s Jungle Gardens and Wildlife Zoo.
Take a guided tour of Trapper Nelson’s restored pioneer homestead during your visit. And learn more about the park’s history and natural environments at the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center.
Here are some more activities that you can do during your visit to Jonathan Dickinson State Park:
Boating at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Discover Florida’s Wild and Scenic River for yourself! Kayak, canoe or ride on the Loxahatchee Queen pontoon through the canopy of ancient cypress trees. Kayak, canoe and motorboat rentals are offered through the park’s concession.
The Loxahatchee Queen takes guests on a 90-minute guided tour of the river including a stop at Trapper Nelson’s 1930s camp.
Swimming at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Swim in the Loxahatchee River in an old-fashioned style swimming hole. And then relax on the grassy shores. A picnic pavilion, restrooms and outdoor shower are nearby.
Hiking at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Discover the park’s 16 natural communities as you wander along the extensive trail system inside Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The trail system contains paths for hikers only and multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Maps are available at the Kimbell Education and Visitor Center.
Here are some of the trails at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
- Hobe Mountain Trail – Easy boardwalk path through the scrub and up to the observation tower on Hobe Mountain, the highest point in South Florida. The Hobe Mountain Observation Tower offers spectacular views of the park and the ocean.
- Kitching Creek Trail – Easy 7 mile loop through the oak and pine forest and past tropical landscapes with wildflowers and opportunities to view birds and other wildlife.
- The White Trail – Easy 9.5 mile loop along a sandy path through flatlands and past dunes and wildflowers.
Biking at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park has many miles of trails available for riders of all ages. Trails range from paved park roads to multi-use trails rated from beginner level all the way up to expert only. Only human powered bicycles are allowed on the trails.
Here are a couple of the trails for mountain biking at Jonathan Dickinson State Park:
- Ocean to Lake Trail – 8.7 mile multi-use trail.
- Eagles View Trail – 8 miles along the equestrian area’s multi-use trails.
- The Camp Murphy Off-road Bicycle Trail System – 9 miles of loops, hills and rugged terrain and sections rated for beginners and others for expert riders only.
Horseback Riding at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Bring your horse and enjoy the peaceful trails through the wilderness inside Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The 8 miles of multi-use trails begin at the Eagles View area; maps are available at the Visitor Center. An equestrian campground is available for guests traveling with their horses. Guided rides (and pony rides) are offered seasonally.
Fishing at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Before heading into the park, pick up both Florida freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses. The Loxahatchee River flows from saltwater fishing at the boat ramp and freshwater fishing upstream. Several ponds and lakes within the park also offer freshwater fishing. Catch largemouth bass, snapper, snook and more.
Birding at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park is an excellent area for birdwatching. More than 150 species have been seen here including cardinals, blackbirds, sparrows, hummingbirds, mockingbirds, wild turkeys, heron, egrets, ibis, owls and more.
Bring your binoculars and check out the park’s bird list to discover how many you can spot during your visit.
Nature and Wildlife at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Explore the area around the coastal sand pine scrub and keep an eye out for gopher frogs, Florida scrub-jays, gopher tortoises, Eastern indigo snakes and the Florida mouse. Along the river and through the ancient cypress trees you’ll glimpse many species of birds along with deer, raccoon, alligators, foxes, otters, snakes and turtles.
Pets at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Pets are allowed at Jonathan Dickinson State Park but must be supervised and kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet long.
Camping at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers overnight accommodations for guests who want to get the most out of their visit to the area. These accommodations include cabins, two family campgrounds, a small equestrian campground, a group camping area and backpack camping sites.
The park’s cabins are fully furnished and located close to the Loxahatchee River. Each of the 11 cabins has one bedroom, one full bathroom, dining and kitchen area and a family room with a pull out sleeper sofa. A two night minimum stay is required and pets are not allowed.
Pine Grove campground and The River campground have 142 sites between them. Some campsites are located along the Loxahatchee River. All campsites have electric and water hookups, picnic tables, grills, and are within walking distance to large bathhouses with restrooms, hot showers and laundry facilities.
The equestrian campground has 5 sites with tie-out posts and space for portable pens for guests traveling with their horses. A negative Coggins report is required for each horse brought into the park.
The three group campsites fit up to 30 people each and have tables and a fire circle. A composting toilet is located nearby. The closest potable water to these campsites is at the picnic area one mile away.
Two primitive hike-out or bike-out to campsites are located along the trails, one 5 miles out and the other is 9 miles. There is water (a pitcher pump) located near these backpack camps but it must be treated before drinking. It is recommended that you carry a camp stove if you will be camping in one of these sites.
The three group campsites fit up to 30 people each and have tables and a fire circle. A composting toilet is located nearby. The closest potable water to these campsites is at the picnic area one mile away.
Park Location
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
16450 SE Federal Hwy
Hobe Sound, FL 33455
Phone: 772.546.2771
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Jonathan Dickinson State Park:
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