Best Campgrounds near Cutler Bay, FL
Camping near Cutler Bay, Florida encompasses a mix of established campgrounds and RV resorts situated between urban Miami and the natural landscapes of the Everglades and Biscayne National Parks. Larry & Penny Thompson Park offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options just 15 miles north of Cutler Bay. Encore Miami Everglades provides similar accommodations with boat access in addition to standard drive-in sites. For those seeking a more natural experience, Long Pine Key Campground in Everglades National Park (about 25 miles southwest) offers a more immersive natural setting, though it operates seasonally from November to May only.
The subtropical climate dictates camping conditions throughout the year. Winter (December through April) provides the most comfortable camping weather with temperatures typically ranging from 60-75°F and lower humidity. Summer months bring intense heat, high humidity, and significant mosquito activity, making camping challenging without proper preparation. Mosquito repellent is essential year-round but particularly from May through October. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with urban sites offering reliable coverage while national park locations may have limited or no service. Verizon typically provides better coverage than AT&T in the Everglades area, according to visitor reports.
Campgrounds in the region serve different camping styles and needs. Urban sites like Larry & Penny Thompson Park function well as base camps for exploring both Miami attractions and nearby national parks, with full hookups and amenities. As one camper noted, it's "a great value with close access to Biscayne National Park." RV resorts like Southern Comfort and Encore Miami Everglades cater to longer-term visitors with resort-style amenities including swimming pools and organized activities. The boat-in only sites at Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key in Biscayne National Park provide more secluded experiences for those with watercraft. Road noise can be an issue at some locations closer to highways, while sites deeper in the parks offer more tranquility but fewer amenities.