Jonathan Dickinson, a Quaker merchant, and his family and crew were shipwrecked near Hobe Sound in 1696 and walked the coast to St. Augustine. Dickinson's journal describes encounters with Native Americans and Spanish settlers along the coast and provides a detailed historical account of the time period.

Portions of the Battle of Loxahatchee, fought during the Second Seminole War, are believed to have been fought within the park. A sign at the park interprets the battle.

Located just south of Stuart, this park teems with wildlife in 13 natural communities, including sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods, mangroves, and river swamps. The Loxahatchee River, Florida's first federally designated Wild and Scenic River, runs through the park. Ranger-guided tours of the 1930s pioneer homestead of Trapper Nelson are available year-round.

Visitors can enjoy paved and off-road biking, equestrian, and hiking trails. Boating, canoeing, and kayaking along the river are also great ways to see the park. Anglers can fish along the riverbank or from a boat. The nature and history of the park comes to life through exhibits and displays in the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center. Programs for the kids, or for the whole family, are also offered here.

Information provided by Florida Division of Historical Resources.