The primary use of the park is as a recreation area. Activities include fishing, swimming, surfing, picnicking, hiking, and birding as well as scuba diving, snorkeling, and youth camping. Amenities include a half-mile beach, primitive youth/group campground, a paved bike path, playground, picnic area, a nature trail, and a reef about 100 yards (91 m) from the beach.
Jack Island State Preserve
Jack Island State Preserve, located a mile north of Fort Pierce Inlet State Park on State Road A1A is under the same management as the state park. Jack Island features trails for hiking, biking, and studying nature. At the west end of its Marsh Rabbit Run Trail, there is an observation tower with views of the Indian River and of Jack Island itself.