Cabin camping near Big Pine Key, Florida provides access to some of the most unique ecosystems in the Florida Keys, with average winter temperatures around 70°F and summer highs in the 90s. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 3 feet above sea level, making waterfront sites particularly vulnerable during storm surges. Many cabin rentals require advance reservations due to high demand, especially during the peak winter season.
What to do
Snorkeling at Bahia Honda State Park: Explore underwater ecosystems directly from the shore without needing a boat tour. "The snorkeling is great but the current is strong," notes one visitor about the accessible marine environment at Buttonwood Campground.
Kayaking from campsite docks: Many cabin locations offer direct water access for paddlers. "Sites are decent, showers were recently remodeled and laundry room was very large. Many activities going on at the club house. Great playground for the kids. AND, you have to check out the marina. Water's so clear you can see all kinds of fish, sharks, jelly fish and manatees," reports a guest at Encore Sunshine Key.
Beach access with wheelchair options: The area offers accessible outdoor experiences. "This place was just amazing for my family member in a wheel chair! Everywhere was wheelchair accessible, and they even had a beach wheel chair that we could checkout, so we could go to the beach as an entire family!"
Sunset viewing from Sugarloaf Key: Prime sunset locations are available within 20 miles of Big Pine Key. "Beautiful campground. I love the size of it only holds about 11 campers which in my opinion is perfect. We were right on the water with a peaceful ocean breeze to keep us cool."
What campers like
Private beach access: Many cabin locations include exclusive waterfront areas. "It is a great location with tons of amenities! Best for RV camping but I have also tent camped here many times," notes one regular visitor to the area.
Post-hurricane recovery amenities: Facilities continue to improve after storm damage. "The Park is using very nice, modern trailers for restrooms and showers. Everything was very clean and had hot showers. The Atlantic sites are gone and won't be available for maybe 2 more years, I will keep checking," writes a visitor at Bayside Campground.
Less crowded locations: Smaller properties offer more peaceful experiences. "I love the size of it only holds about 11 campers which in my opinion is perfect. we were right on the water with a peaceful ocean breeze to keep us cool all the spots were concrete slabs which made it nice for tables and getting in and out of the camper," explains a visitor at El Mar RV Resort.
Proximity to Key West: Cabins provide access to attractions while maintaining a more natural setting. "This is a great spot to escape the cold. It is a fair distance from Key West, about a half hour drive. This location does have all the amenities you wake me though."
What you should know
Potential water utility issues: Be prepared with extra water supplies. "MAKE SURE YOU TAKE EXTRA WATER, OR FILL YOUR TANKS. Only a handful of sites have any shade, so be sure to request shade when making reservations. No water at sites, any only some have electricity. Potable water at bathroom unless pump goes out," advises a camper at Flamingo Campground.
Pest management essential: Insects can impact your experience significantly. "We tent camped 3 nights, leaving Bahia Honda yesterday, May 2nd. The Bath Houses were destroyed by Irma and the Atlantic Ocean area is fenced off due to damage. We enjoyed the Gulf Beach and kayaked in the Gulf."
Limited availability: Booking well in advance is necessary for cabin stays. "It is a state park so no full hook ups. It has such beautiful scenery and in the ocean. It's very hard to get a spot."
Cell service variability: Coverage differs by carrier across the region. "No Verizon or T-Mobile service. There is Wi-Fi available in the Marina store area. The campground is very clean."
Tips for camping with families
Enclosed camping areas for children: Some locations offer contained recreational spaces. "The eco-tents are located on boardwalks with embedded lights to the bathroom building so you can see your way there at night. There is an electrical outlet box with one spare outlet."
Resort-style accommodations with kid amenities: Multiple swimming options available. "We really enjoyed this park. VERY friendly staff. Very clean and well-maintained. Roomy sites. Even if you don't get a water site, everything is in close proximity to the water. Adorable tiny houses."
Educational wildlife opportunities: Unique animal viewing directly from cabin areas. "Tons of manatee hang out in the marina at the resort. You can get great pictures of them. We've met a lot of families and made some friends," shares a guest at Encore Fiesta Key.
Bring entertainment for weather delays: Afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months. "It can get super hot in July/Aug. The beach is wonderful, the store has all you will need. I love this place for Tent/RV/Cabin trips. The sites are legit! Lots of privacy. Bring bikes because there is so much to explore."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Cabin and RV site dimensions vary significantly. "All in all the sites were spacious and the temporary bathhouse facility was kept very clean. The beach wasn't too crowded and the crystal clear water left nothing to the imagination while we had our kayaks out."
Utilities planning essential: Different properties have varying hookup configurations. "We stayed here for a night after we didn't fit at another campground. Great location and the park was super clean. We had an amazing sunset and would stay here again in a heartbeat. It is a little on the expensive side and could use some shade."
Local supply runs: Stock up before arriving at more remote cabin locations. "Winn Dixie grocery stores are located on Big Pine Key and Marathon for supplies. The marina stores at several locations stock basic provisions, though selection is limited."
Advance planning for space needs: Consider multiple cabins for larger groups. "We stayed in the T-loop, site 42 in mid-April. Only a handful of sites have any shade, so be sure to request shade when making reservations and you may get lucky like us."
