Camping options near Biscayne National Park range from primitive island sites to full-service RV resorts. The park sits at sea level with a subtropical climate averaging 80°F year-round and receives about 60 inches of annual rainfall, primarily during the summer wet season from May through October. Hurricane season runs June through November, which can impact camping availability and conditions at both island and mainland locations.
What to do
Kayaking in mangrove forests: Biscayne National Park offers paddling opportunities for campers with personal watercraft. "When we had our own kayak, we were able to skirt the shore and paddle through some of the mangrove forests in Biscayne. This was the highlight of our two short days at Biscayne, since the only other activity we could do was explore the visitor center and walk the very short boardwalk trail," shares a reviewer from Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Snorkeling and diving: The underwater portions of the park feature coral reefs and marine life. "This park is all about the water. Awesome kayaking, snorkling, and scuba diving. The water is beautiful, and the park itself is super relaxing!" notes a camper who stayed at Elliott Key — Biscayne National Park.
Fishing: Many campgrounds provide fishing access even without boat transportation to the park. "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," mentions one visitor to Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
What campers like
Island camping experience: Boat-accessible sites provide a unique overnight experience. "This small island in Biscayne National Park offers a distant view of the Miami skyline, gorgeous aqua water for swimming, snorkeling, boating and fishing. A small lighthouse stands above the protected harbor. There's a small trail around the wooded end of the island," writes a reviewer who camped at Boca Chita Key — Biscayne National Park.
Affordability and location: Mainland campgrounds provide budget-friendly base camps. "In southern Florida, campgrounds don't usually come cheap, but we found Larry & Penny's to be a great value with close access (30 minutes) to Biscayne National Park," shares one camper who stayed there.
Pet-friendly camping options: Several facilities welcome pets with designated areas. "We stayed for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area. I would say 17 bucks a night is a little pricey for a tent site but not outrageous. The tent sites were well shaded. Bathrooms were clean and staff was friendly," reports a visitor to Larry & Penny Thompson Park, one of the pet-friendly camping options near Biscayne National Park.
What you should know
Boat access requirements: The prime camping areas require watercraft. "This campground has grills and is waterside (accessible by boat). It has a beautiful waterfront view and plenty of picnic tables. Toilets are available but no showers, sinks or drinking water," explains a camper at Boca Chita Key.
Weather considerations: The subtropical climate affects camping conditions. "We camped here for a week. Not many frills, certainly not a resort and bathroom frequently ran out of TP, but as a relatively affordable base of vacation operations it was good. Close to the Keys, Everglades, Biscayne and shopping," notes a visitor to Southern Comfort RV Resort.
Wildlife awareness: Local fauna requires proper preparation and storage. "This campground is tight but manageable. Pulled in late and security guard was super helpful. The entrance is a little hidden and tight but doable. We were towing a 36' travel trailer," mentions a camper at Southern Comfort RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options for children. "This site is extremely nice! It is very clean, upkept well, and all staff were extremely helpful. We were originally assigned a campsite right next to another group who was taking up a lot of space so the office staff graciously worked with us and let us choose our own site," shares a family who stayed at Miami Everglades RV Resort.
Proximity to attractions: Location affects ability to visit multiple sites. "This campground 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. Bathrooms/showers/laundry facilities on site are well maintained," notes a camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Pet-friendly camping activities: Dogs can join many activities at select sites. "This land is beautiful and features many tropical fruit trees that you can sleep under. This is a perfect place to stop on your visit to the Everglades or the Keys," mentions a visitor to Redlands Acre Campground, another pet-friendly option near Biscayne National Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV parking varies significantly between facilities. "We stayed one night in June with a tent - and that felt just right. This is a large, RV-oriented campground where sites come with water and power, even if you're pitching canvas rather than parking chrome," observes a visitor to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Security considerations: Campground security varies by location. "We stayed here about 4 days on our way down to the Keys. This park is mostly quiet but full of sketchy people. We saw our neighbors selling illegal firearms to a young kid in his front yard. Lock your stuff up if you're going to leave anything outside. The lots are huge and clean," cautions a reviewer at The Boardwalk RV And Mobile Home Resort.
Utility connections: Hookup quality differs between parks. "In the RV's are assigned space around several pods. 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," reports a camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
