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Located just North of Jupiter, Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Referred to by locals as simply "JD", the park covers over 11,500 acres and is home to palmetto-laden forests and trails, winding mangrove waterways, a diverse history and popular mountain bike trails. It has a rich history dating back to the 1600s making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park has a rich history that dates back to the 1600s. The park is named after Jonathan Dickinson, a Quaker merchant who shipwrecked in the area in 1696. Dickinson and his fellow passengers were taken captive by the local Seminole tribe, and their story is told in the park's visitor center. The park is also home to the historical homestead of Trapper Nelson. Vince "Trapper" Nelson was an American trapper, hunter and zoo founder who became a popular tourist attraction in the 1940s and 1950s for his collection of exotic and wild animals. Locally known as the "Tarzan of the Loxahatchee", Trapper's homestead and can still be visited today.
Jonathon Dickinson park is also home to Camp Murphy which served as a US Army base for instruction in radar operation in the early course of the 2nd world war. The post was named in honor of Colonel William Herbert Murphy, a pioneer in the development of radio beams and equipment for military aircraft. Camp Murphy accommodated 854 officers and 5,752 enlisted men. The camp had close to 1,000 buildings that included a bank, movie theater, church and bowling alley. Although decommissioned in 1944, old buildings and massive satellite dishes can still be found today throughout the parks' trails.
There are over 13 miles of hiking trails throughout JD, each offering its own unique sights and sounds. The park's noteworthy trail is the Kitching Creek Trail, which is a 7.5-mile loop that winds through the park's stunning wilderness. Along the way, hikers can spot a variety of wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and a variety of birds. For the more daring, hikers can also visit JD on the Lake to Ocean trail. This 61.4 mile path from Lake Okeechobee to Hobe Sound Beach comes straight through Jonathon Dickinson State Park and offers a unique and challenging path through some of Florida's most pristine natural habitats.
Another great way to explore the park's natural beauty is by taking a canoe or kayak trip down the Loxahatchee River. The river is a designated National Wild and Scenic River. Paddlers can navigate the river's winding waterways, passing by towering cypress trees, and spotting wildlife along the way. Fisherman will enjoy the brackish water that hosts both fresh and saltwater species, including snook, tarpon and bass.
Mountain biking enthusiasts are in for a treat while visiting Jonathon Dickinson. Today, Camp Murphy is the affectionate name given to the park's nearly 9 miles of challenging mountain bike trails. Maintained by a local group of enthusiasts who refer to themselves as Club Scrub, the trails feature beginner to expert level trails to accommodate riders of all skill ranges.
Visiting Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a must for anyone looking to experience Florida's natural beauty and rich history. The park's campground has over 100 campsites to host a number of visitors and there are also several picnic areas throughout the park, making it a great place to spend a day with family and friends. Stop by the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center, which offers a variety of programs and exhibits that teach kids and other visitors about the area's natural and cultural history. The center's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the park's wildlife to the early history of Florida.
With its many outdoor activities, educational exhibits, and stunning wilderness, "JD" is a destination that has something to offer everyone.
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