Biscayne National Park area offers upland tent camping and luxury glamping options within 30-45 minutes of the park entrance. The subtropical climate keeps temperatures moderate year-round, with summer highs averaging 85-90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 60°F. Camping locations range from urban parks with amenities to more secluded spots along the coast, providing varied access points to explore both Biscayne's marine environment and nearby Everglades ecosystems.
What to do
Fishing at local lagoons: Tent campers at Larry & Penny Thompson Park can fish in nearby ponds, but should be prepared for wildlife encounters. According to one camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park, "We camped here for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area... Fishing was good in the pond nearby. Beware of the feral cats and raccoons though. We spent an entire night fending them off with a slingshot and they didn't bother us again."
Kayaking through mangroves: Bring your own kayak or rent one to explore the waterways near Oleta River State Park. The park offers "15-miles of trails in more than 1,000 acres! You can bike, snorkel, paddle, run, picnic, rent cabins, primitive camp, and even get married. No bugs during the day."
Visit both Biscayne and Everglades: Use the camping areas as your central location to explore multiple parks. "This campsite is a great central base camp for those visiting Biscayne NP/ Everglades NP and Miami. Clean and safe, with spots for both rv's and tents."
What campers like
Affordability near expensive areas: Budget-conscious glampers appreciate value options near Southern Comfort RV Resort in Florida City. As one visitor noted, "Very cozy place, plenty of shades, little swimming pool and friendly people all around. You just can't beat the price! $18 if you have Passport America membership."
Urban escape contrast: Despite being in metropolitan areas, several glamping locations offer surprising natural settings. One camper at Oleta River State Park called it "an oasis in the middle of an overcrowded city" with cabins available for around "$55 bucks a night or so!"
Water access and sunsets: Waterfront glamping near Biscayne National Park provides memorable sunset views. A visitor to Riptide RV Resort mentioned, "This campground is small with tight sites (short and close together). There's no pool but there are laundry facilities and a clean bathroom. There's a community grill, picnic area, and chairs to enjoy the sunsets."
What you should know
Limited stay durations: Tent camping has stricter time limits than RV stays at some locations. According to a reviewer, "Wish the website was clearer on length of stay - 30 days for RVs and 7 days for tent campers. After 7 days, you have to leave and can't return for 30 days. They do provide a list of other local campgrounds you can move to, though."
Noise considerations: Urban glamping locations near Biscayne National Park may have traffic or entertainment noise. One camper noted: "Near a major street, so it can get noisy - and on weekends you can hear the music from a local bar."
Security concerns: Take normal urban security precautions at Paradise Island RV Resort. One unfortunate experience demonstrates why: "Our Ford F-250 King Ranch 4x4 diesel got stolen in the middle of the day from right in front of our RV at this park. This state park is NOT secure!"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming amenities: Children appreciate the pools and water features at several locations. "The pool is clean and guarded by life guards. There is a lounge where you have access to WiFi and plus to charge your phones."
Zoo proximity: Larry & Penny Thompson Park offers convenient access to Miami Zoo. According to a camper, "I'm a tent camper and loved this area. Overall great value with a swimming pool and washer/dryers. Grounds mostly quiet with expected weekenders. Miami Zoo and groceries nearby and great location."
Washroom considerations: Bathroom facilities vary by location and camping area. One camper observed, "Each pod has its own bathhouse with laundry facilities. There are pull through spots for the big motorhomes and spots reserved for the handicapped. The bathhouses for the RV's were in good shape and well maintained. The bathhouse for the tenters not so much."
Tips from RVers
Gate access timing: Note restricted entry hours when glamping near Biscayne National Park. "Fairly dispersed camping lots of grass, big park, gates locked at 8pm. Lots of trees scattered but ok shade."
Alternative access points: Some RV parks have tricky entrances requiring planning. "The entrance is a little hidden and tight but doable. We were towing a 36' travel trailer. If heading south and coming off the FL Turnpike, you have to get over several lanes in a short distance to make the left turn on to Palm Drive."
Connectivity challenges: Internet access varies greatly between glamping locations. One RVer reported, "No WiFi due to construction whilst we were there. Verizon data slow even with booster."
