Guided Tours of the Loxahatchee River
Explore the beauty of the Loxahatchee River with our guided boat tours. Witness the stunning wildlife and immerse
Boat Tours at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Discover the Loxahatchee River
Experience the beauty of one of Florida’s Wild and Scenic Rivers aboard our Coast Guard-certified vessels. Choose from the Loxahatchee Queen III (60-passenger) or Loxahatchee Queen II (22-passenger) River Queen (27 passenger), All stable and covered for your comfort.
Guided Adventures on the River
Embark on a two-hour narrated journey through the ancient sub-tropical landscape of the Loxahatchee River. Marvel at century-old cypress trees, lush ferns, and hardwood forests while learning about the river’s unique history and wildlife from your licensed captain.
Wildlife Encounters
From the comfort of your individual armchair, spot Florida’s diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for manatees, alligators, bald eagles, osprey, herons, and the Florida Peninsula cooter turtle, among other species.
Tour Options & Schedule
Daily Departures:
- 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
Tour Types:
- River Tour: Explore the Loxahatchee River during low tide. (Approx. 1.5 hours)
- Trapper Tour: Includes a stop at Trapper Nelson’s historic homestead, narrated by a park ranger. (Approx. 1.75 hours)
Pricing:
| Tour Type | Adults | Children (3-12) | Children (Under 2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| River Tour | $27 | $16 | Free |
| Trapper Tour | $32 | $17 | Free |
All prices are subject to Florida sales tax and may change without notice.
Tour availability depends on tide conditions.
Private Charters
Looking for a custom adventure? Book one of our vessels for your group, family, or special event. Our experienced captain will guide you through the park or along Florida’s inland waterways, ensuring a memorable outing.
Perfect for Special Occasions
- Weddings with scenic backdrops like the Jupiter Lighthouse
- Birthdays, family holidays, and boat parades
- Corporate outings and group events
Charter Details
| Vessel Size | Minimum (2 Hours) | Additional Hour | Captain Fee (15% of Trip) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Larger Boat (49 passengers) | $1,000 | $500 | $150 (first 2 hours) |
| Smaller Boat (22 passengers) | $400 | $200 | $60 (first 2 hours) |
Charters are subject to availability during peak times.
Prices are subject to Florida sales tax and may change without notice.
Plan Your Adventure Today!
Whether it’s a scenic boat tour, a family celebration, or a relaxing private charter, Jonathan Dickinson State Park has an experience waiting for you. Book now to explore the wonders of the Loxahatchee River! 🌿🚤
Explore the Legacy of Trapper Nelson
Discover the fascinating story of Trapper Nelson, the “Wildman of the Loxahatchee,” who arrived in the 1930s and carved out a unique life in the wilderness. Known for his rugged independence and resourcefulness, Trapper made his living trapping and selling furs while building a remarkable homestead that has become a cherished piece of Florida history
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A Life of Self-Reliance
With limited formal education, Trapper Nelson thrived in the wild, earning fame for his wildlife zoo, which attracted visitors from all over. Over the years, he acquired significant land holdings and created a self-sustaining retreat, complete with log cabins, a Seminole-style “Chickee” shelter, lush tropical gardens, and a wildlife zoo.
Following his death in 1968, the state of Florida acquired the land to preserve his legacy. Today, Trapper Nelson’s homestead offers a glimpse into his unique way of life, showcasing his ingenuity and deep connection to nature.
Visit Trapper Nelson’s Homestead
Accessible only by water, the site can be reached via the Loxahatchee Queen II boat tour or by paddling your own canoe or kayak. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a Park Ranger who will guide you through the preserved log cabins and grounds. Visitors can also enjoy a self-guided tour, picnic under the shaded “Chickee” shelter, and explore the lush surroundings.
Highlights Include:
- Guided tours by knowledgeable Park Rangers
- Historical log cabins and Seminole Chickee shelters
- Stunning tropical gardens and wildlife exhibits
- Picnic areas for a relaxing day by the river
Plan Your Visit
Step back in time and experience the world of Trapper Nelson, a Florida pioneer whose legacy lives on in Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Whether you arrive by boat or paddle your way to the site, this unique historical destination offers an unforgettable journey into Florida’s past.