Savannas Recreation Area

For Floridians seeking an accessible and diverse outdoor experience, the Savannas Recreation Area in Fort Pierce stands out as a true local gem. This expansive park, encompassing a significant portion of the Savannas Preserve, offers a unique blend of comfortable camping amenities and raw natural beauty. It's a place where the convenience of modern facilities meets the tranquility of untouched Florida wetlands, providing an ideal retreat for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors.

Unlike some of Florida's more remote or primitive camping destinations, Savannas Recreation Area provides a balance that appeals to a wide range of campers. Whether you're pulling a large RV, pitching a tent, or simply visiting for a day of recreation, the park's offerings are designed to enhance your experience. It's a testament to St. Lucie County's commitment to preserving its natural landscapes while making them enjoyable and accessible for residents and visitors alike.

From the perspective of a local Floridian, the Savannas Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s a living classroom, a recreational hub, and a peaceful sanctuary all rolled into one. Its strategic location and varied amenities make it a prime choice for weekend getaways, longer stays, or even just a few hours of outdoor activity. Let's delve deeper into what makes this Fort Pierce destination so appealing.

The Savannas Recreation Area is conveniently located at 1400 E Midway Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34982, USA. This address places it within easy reach for residents of Fort Pierce and surrounding communities in St. Lucie County and beyond. Fort Pierce itself is part of Florida's Treasure Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, fishing opportunities, and a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere.

Accessibility to the Savannas Recreation Area is excellent. The park is situated just off major roadways, allowing for straightforward travel by car or RV. Its proximity to US-1 and I-95 means that whether you're coming from north or south Florida, reaching the campground is a simple affair. This ease of access is a significant advantage for local Floridians planning short trips or even spontaneous visits.

Once at the park, the layout is designed for convenience. Security locked gates are in place at night, providing peace of mind for campers. While nestled amidst natural wetlands, the park is surprisingly close to urban conveniences. Within a short drive, visitors can find grocery stores, restaurants, fuel stations, and other essential services in Fort Pierce, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay without feeling completely isolated from civilization. Furthermore, its location offers quick access to a variety of beautiful beaches, many with free parking and lifeguards, enhancing the overall recreational opportunities available to visitors.

Savannas Recreation Area offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to make your camping and recreational experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible. The park is well-equipped to cater to both RV and tent campers, as well as day visitors.

• Full Hook-up RV Sites: The campground boasts large, spacious RV sites that come with full hook-ups, including water, sewer, and electric connections. This is a significant convenience for RV owners, ensuring a hassle-free stay. Nightly rates are remarkably competitive, often cited around $29 a night (though prices can vary seasonally, e.g., $22-29 depending on time of year), making it an excellent value for full-service camping in Florida.
• Tent Camping: Unimproved tent-only sites are available, catering to those who prefer a more traditional camping experience without electricity at their site.
• Restrooms and Hot Showers: Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are available, along with the welcome convenience of hot showers, a highly appreciated amenity for campers after a day of outdoor activities.
• Laundry Facilities: For longer stays, on-site laundry facilities are a practical addition, allowing campers to refresh their wardrobe without leaving the park.
• Kayak and Bike Rentals: The park makes it easy to explore its vast landscapes and waterways by offering kayaks and bikes for rent at very reasonable prices. This is a fantastic way to experience the "swamp" and paved trails.
• Picnic Pavilions and Tables: Numerous picnic pavilions and individual picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, ideal for day use or group gatherings.
• Dog Parks: For visitors traveling with their canine companions, dedicated dog parks provide a safe and spacious area for pets to play off-leash.
• WiFi: Registered guests can typically access Wi-Fi, allowing for some connectivity while enjoying nature.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite usually includes a fire ring for campfires, perfect for evening gatherings and s'mores. Large community fire rings are also available for groups.

The Savannas Recreation Area is rich in features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor recreation in Florida. These elements contribute to the memorable experiences shared by its visitors:

• Extensive Paved Trail System: A major highlight is the extensive network of paved trails. There's a 4-mile paved path extending into the swamp, offering a unique opportunity for walking, jogging, or biking through diverse ecosystems. Additionally, several miles of paved paths wind through the camping park itself, perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The park is a haven for wildlife. Visitors frequently encounter sandhill cranes wandering through the campground, and there are ample opportunities to spot alligators, turtles, and a wide variety of waterfowl. Birdwatching is a popular activity, given the diversity of habitats.
• Water Activities: With its proximity to the Savannas marsh system, the park is ideal for freshwater fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The canoe launch boardwalk is ADA accessible, and fishing is available from the platform, making it inclusive for all.
• Pickleball Court: For sports enthusiasts, the presence of a pickleball court adds another layer of recreational fun, appealing to both seasoned players and those looking to try a new sport.
• Proximity to Beaches: Its location near Fort Pierce provides easy access to the Treasure Coast's beautiful beaches, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling. Some visitors even report finding abundant apple snail shells within the park itself, inspiring creative crafts.
• Unique Ecosystems: The Savannas area covers 550 acres and five distinct biological communities, including pine flatwoods, wet prairie, marsh, lake, and scrub habitats. This unique blend contributes to its "Reserve" status by the Florida Legislature and makes it a fascinating place for ecological exploration.
• Historic "Cracker House" Trading Post: The park office, housed in an original "Cracker House" dating back to between 1890 and 1912, adds a touch of historical charm. Visitors can relax on its wraparound porch and observe the surrounding waters and wildlife.

While some reviews mention the occasional noise from Brightline trains passing through, many campers find the overall experience of being surrounded by wildlife and nature to far outweigh this minor inconvenience, highlighting the truly memorable and immersive natural environment.

For those planning a visit to the Savannas Recreation Area, or for any inquiries regarding camping reservations, facility rentals, or current park conditions, please use the following contact information:

Address: Savannas Recreation Area, 1400 E Midway Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34982, USA

Phone: (772) 464-7855

Mobile Phone: +1 772-464-7855

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially for camping reservations, which are highly advisable during peak season (November to April) as the park can be quite popular. You can also inquire about the specific hours for the office, kayak and bike rentals, and any current events or guided nature programs.

The Savannas Recreation Area is an ideal destination for locals in Florida, offering a compelling blend of affordability, accessibility, and diverse outdoor activities. For Floridians, it represents an opportunity to experience the state's natural beauty without having to travel to distant, often crowded, national parks or more expensive private resorts. The low nightly camping rates, especially for full hook-up RV sites, make it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals seeking extended stays.

Its location in Fort Pierce provides the perfect balance: a peaceful natural retreat that is still conveniently close to all necessary amenities and the vibrant coastal attractions of the Treasure Coast. Whether you're a passionate birdwatcher, an avid kayaker, a casual biker, or simply someone who enjoys relaxing in a natural setting with the comforts of a well-maintained campground, Savannas Recreation Area caters to all.

The positive feedback from repeat visitors, who consistently praise the park's cleanliness, large sites, and friendly atmosphere, reinforces its reputation as a preferred choice for local outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in Florida's unique ecosystems, enjoy diverse recreational pursuits, and create lasting memories, all within an easy reach of home. Savannas Recreation Area truly embodies the spirit of accessible Florida outdoor adventure, making it a highly suitable and cherished spot for local residents.

Savannas Recreation Area

Savannas Recreation Area, 1400 E Midway Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34982, USA