Boat-in tent camping dominates the options near Biscayne National Park, with 95% of the park composed of water. Most campsites require paddling or boating between 3-4 hours to reach, with distances ranging from 5-13 kilometers depending on the specific island or chickee platform. Weather conditions change rapidly in this marine environment, with wind shifts from calm to 25 knots possible within minutes.
What to do
Kayaking through mangroves: Pearl Bay Chickee offers an ideal paddling route for beginners through winding mangrove trails before crossing the more open Pearl Bay. As one camper noted, "It is among the shortest paddles for any chickee in the Everglades. Starts off through beautiful winding mangroves trails, then a short jaunt across the more open Pearl Bay and you're there!"
Wildlife spotting: The waterways surrounding Shark Point Chickee provide excellent opportunities to observe marine life. "I saw sharks, dolphins, alligators, and different type of fish. Be prepared!" reports one visitor who made the challenging 3-4 hour paddle.
Fishing near platforms: Try fishing from Lane Bay Chickee for smaller species. A camper mentioned, "Decent fishing for smaller fish (little snook, red drum, jack)." Since the platform sits directly on the wilderness waterway, you'll have prime access to fishing spots while enjoying relative isolation.
Hiking island trails: Boca Chita Key offers a small trail around the wooded end of the island. The path provides a land-based activity option between swimming and boating sessions.
What campers like
Complete solitude: Shark Point Chickee offers remarkable isolation according to campers. One visitor appreciated that there was "Nobody else for miles. Wind kept bugs blown away." The remoteness provides a true wilderness experience rarely found elsewhere.
Accessible platforms: The newer chickee platforms include design improvements for diverse users. Pearl Bay Chickee features "small steps down towards the water level for those with limited mobility. This is the only chickee with railings and 2 porta-potties, one big enough for a wheelchair."
Miami skyline views: From Boca Chita Key, campers can enjoy "a distant view of the Miami skyline, gorgeous aqua water for swimming, snorkeling, boating and fishing." The island also features "a small lighthouse stands above the protected harbor."
Spectacular night skies: Multiple chickee platforms offer excellent stargazing. One Hells Bay visitor mentioned, "Stars were great but hard to enjoy because as soon as the sun goes down the bugs SWARM. Pack some cards or something to do in the tent after sunset before bed."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug protection is critical for every site, but especially at ground-based camping areas. Even at Lard Can campground, "even in a 25 knot wind, none of it gets back into the clearings making it so the mosquitos are awful 24/7 unless it is downright cold."
Wind conditions: Be prepared for rapid weather shifts. At Hells Bay Chickee, one camper observed, "Winds can change drastically and quickly, so make sure to tie of your watercraft really well; we went from flat calm to 25knots in just 5 minutes."
Platform differences: Each chickee platform has unique features. The newer platforms at Hells Bay have different construction: "The new posts are made of metal, so they feel a little more secure than previously" but "the type of decking and how close the new platforms are to each other is a less than ideal."
Limited facilities: Most campsites have minimal amenities. At Boca Chita Key, "There are flush toilets and the odor is so strong you won't linger! Bring potable water." Most sites lack fresh water, requiring campers to carry all needed supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter paddles: For families new to paddling, Pearl Bay Chickee provides "a great one nighter, or a stop on the way to further sites like Hells Bay of Lane Bay chickee." Its relatively short distance makes it "perfect for a first timer!"
Pack tent entertainment: Since bugs drive most campers into their tents at sunset, bring activities for evening hours. One experienced camper suggests, "bring cards or a book to entertain you in the tent" after dark.
Plan for noise levels: Some islands are quieter than others. At Boca Chita Key, "Between generators and music, it's not a quiet island. Tour boats from the park bring crowds a couple of times a time."
Multi-day strategies: For exploring more remote locations, consider a progressive trip. One camper suggests pairing Lane Bay "with Hells Bay or Pearl Bay for a 2 night trip" rather than attempting the full paddle distance in a single day.
Tips from RVers
Alternative camping options: Since RV camping isn't available within Biscayne National Park itself, consider Elliott Key as a tent-only alternative accessible by boat. The group campsite there "had cover and picnic tables so we could escape from the rain" and can accommodate larger parties: "We fit about 18 people in the group site."
