Cutler Bay provides access to diverse camping opportunities, from the brackish water ecosystems of the Everglades to the coastal areas just 25 miles away. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels, while winter brings milder conditions with averages in the 70s. Water management is a key consideration with seasonal flooding common in low-lying camping areas from June through November.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing at Flamingo Campground: Visitors can rent equipment at the marina for exploring mangrove tunnels. One visitor mentioned, "The mangroves are fun to explore by canoe or kayak and the rangers are very informative."
Mountain biking at Oleta River State Park Campground: Offers 15 miles of off-road biking trails spread across 1,000 acres. A camper noted, "Hard to believe that this oasis is so close to major urban centers, but it's true. It boasts 15-miles of trails in more than 1,000 acres!"
Fishing at Riptide RV Resort: Located on Key Largo, this waterfront property provides dock access for anglers. A reviewer described it as having a "great fishing community" with a "nice pavilion down at water, nice little beach, dock, restrooms, showers and laundry."
Wildlife viewing near tent sites: During winter months, bird watching opportunities improve with reduced mosquito presence. As one camper at Flamingo noted, "If you're looking for birds, nearby Eco pond or the waterfront near the bayside campsites offer a nice variety for minimal effort."
Stargazing at T-Loop sites: The remote location allows for excellent night sky viewing. A camper shared, "If you can beat the bugs, stargaze and enjoy the sunrise."
What campers like
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Larry & Penny Thompson Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. A camper noted, "The bathhouses for the RV's were in good shape and well maintained. The pool is clean and guarded by life guards."
Convenient base for exploring multiple parks: Locations within 30-45 minutes of three national parks. One visitor explained, "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."
Budget-friendly off-season glamping close to Cutler Bay, Florida: Reduced rates available for partially furnished accommodations. A visitor to Flamingo Campground — Everglades National Park shared, "I found one of the eco tents that had just been converted to off season (April-November), meaning no furniture except a fan and a large lantern... Also means you pay $50 instead of $99, great deal!"
Surprisingly natural settings despite urban proximity: Green spaces preserved within city limits. A camper at Paradise Island reported, "This is a campground in the middle of the city, so don't expect a lot of quiet, as this is how it is in a city."
What you should know
Insect protection is essential: Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be overwhelming, especially April through October. A visitor warned, "When we were there (early April), there were TONS of no-see-ums and if you didn't have a tent with a fine enough screen, there was no escape. Do not camp here unless you have a noseeum tent!"
Water outages occur periodically: Flamingo Campground T-Loop occasionally experiences infrastructure issues. A camper reported, "Our last night the water went out and all bathrooms in all loops were closed. Apparently this can be common with pump going out. Understand things happen, but communication was horrible."
Limited to no cell coverage in Everglades: Only AT&T works in some areas. One visitor plainly stated, "No Verizon coverage, but I've been told there is AT&T. Wifi is available at the visitors center."
Supply limitations at remote locations: Stores may run out of essentials. A camper advised, "Because of the long new year's weekend, the shop had no ice, no firewood and only minimal supplies like snacks and beer—lots of empty shelves and coolers."
Security concerns at some urban locations: Theft has been reported. One camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Southern Comfort RV Resort offers swimming facilities. A visitor shared, "There is a bar/Tiki Hut on premise and a big swimming pool open year round."
Wildlife education opportunities: Ranger-led programs available seasonally. One Flamingo T-Loop visitor mentioned, "Lots to do in this park: boat rides, kayak rentals, biking, hiking."
Feral animal awareness: Wildlife may approach campsites after dark. A camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park warned, "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."
Length-of-stay restrictions: Different rules apply to tent and RV camping. One visitor noted, "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."
Bring recreational equipment: Kids benefit from having bikes on site. A parent mentioned, "Our son loved this because he could ride his bike all around the campground to his hearts content."
Tips from RVers
Alternative glamping options near Cutler Bay: Paradise Island RV Resort offers full hookups with urban convenience. A long-term camper shared, "We spent 14 months here sheltering from Covid, and it was extremely convenient to all of the Fort Lauderdale area."
Space considerations between sites: Some locations have tight quarters. A reviewer at Southern Comfort noted, "This campground is small with tight sites (short and close together)."
Dump station challenges: Limited facilities require planning. One RVer warned, "The dumpsite is between the office and the fence. This requires you to back into position or drive down a narrow path and make 3 tight turns."
Gate access timing: Security measures may affect late arrivals. A visitor mentioned, "Fairly dispersed camping lots of grass, big park, gates locked at 8pm."
Limited water at sites: Bring filled tanks for dry camping locations. A Flamingo T-Loop camper advised, "MAKE SURE YOU TAKE EXTRA WATER, OR FILL YOUR TANKS... No water at sites, any only some have electricity."
Ranger
