Cabin camping options near Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida exist within a subtropical climate zone where winter temperatures rarely drop below 60°F, making year-round camping viable. The region sits at just 7 feet above sea level with camping locations scattered across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Most campgrounds remain open during Florida's rainy season (May-October), though afternoon thunderstorms can occur frequently.
What to do
Kayaking at Larry & Penny Thompson Park: Paddle through calm waters at this Miami park featuring well-maintained launch points. "This campsite is a great central base camp for those visiting Biscayne NP/Everglades NP and Miami," notes reviewer Sandra R., who found the grounds "clean and safe, with spots for both RVs and tents."
Beach volleyball near camp: Larry & Penny Thompson Park offers a "great volleyball court" alongside a clean, lifeguarded pool according to camper Tod H., who appreciated the park's amenities despite feeling there was "a kind of second class feel to the tenters."
Mountain biking trails: Explore rugged terrain at nearby parks with varying difficulty levels. One camper at Quiet Waters Park mentioned, "My husband and I rented a campground flat in December. It was on the water, had a grill, electricity, fire pit, tent, running water and was pet friendly. We brought our kayaks and played around."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wake early to spot native Florida species. Burton M. describes the Lion Country Safari KOA experience: "The Raccoons like to come out in the evening, so make sure you pick up your garbage at night. The rabbits were having fun playing in the primitive camping area every evening and early morning hours."
What campers like
Secure gated access: Paradise Island RV Resort prioritizes camper safety with controlled entry points. Richard H. shares, "We spent 14 months here sheltering from Covid, and it was extremely convenient to all of the Fort Lauderdale area. We never had a single issue during our stay."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathhouses and laundry facilities make extended stays comfortable. "The staff are extremely friendly and helpful and will do whatever they can to make you satisfied," notes Richard H. about Paradise Island RV Resort.
Yurt camping options: Quiet Waters Park provides yurt accommodations for those seeking Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Florida's unique glamping experiences. Stephen M. simply states it's an "excellent park" and a "great place to camp."
Urban convenience with nature access: West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA offers proximity to services while maintaining natural surroundings. Coral W. notes it has a "great location near the Safari park with discounted tickets available" and recommends staying "if you are going to the Safari Park and need a place to stay."
What you should know
Limited tent camping duration: Restrictions vary by park. Tod H. explains at Larry & Penny Thompson Park, "Tenters can stay for a Max of 7 nights while RV's can stay for 180. Tenters can only pay for 3 nights at once before returning to re-up."
Seasonal closures affect amenities: During off-peak times or construction, facilities may be limited. Nikaela B. reports, "Right now, nothing is open until memorial day weekend. So no beach and no pool. Also half the park is under construction."
Weather considerations: Florida's afternoon storms can impact camping plans. William C. visited during a hurricane evacuation and found that "the campground staff was great: while going from 15% to 100% occupancy in 24 hours, they still kept up the cleanliness support, and friendliness."
Urban noise levels: Sunsport Gardens Family Naturist Resort offers a unique camping environment with varying noise levels. Lisa C. notes, "The reason why I titled this 'relaxing' is because I enjoy the feeling of the place! The people (mainly the snowbirds) that come down seem to be the friendliest!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool access importance: Select campgrounds with swimming facilities for kid-friendly entertainment. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, Tod H. noted, "The pool is clean and guarded by life guards."
Educational wildlife experiences: Jeffrey W. describes the Lion Country Safari KOA experience: "We are used to hearing birds and frogs when we camp, but here it is lions...and other noises I was not able to identify. Weather great to explore park in late Winter. Kids loved it and we will be back!"
Security considerations: Some locations report theft issues. A Larry & Penny Thompson Park reviewer warns, "Talking to neighbors today we found out that theft of bicycles and other items is common here."
Naturist camping option: Sunsport Gardens Family Naturist Resort offers clothing-optional family camping with specific guidelines. Sandra C. describes it as "Rustic. Freedom. Old timers. Families. AANR. Pool is heated comfortably year round. Sauna. Hot tub restaurant fitness laundry pool table clubhouse."
Tips from RVers
Urban location benefits: Paradise Island offers city-based RV camping with full services. Milagros B. notes, "Campground in the city, great guest services, friendly staff. Near grocery store, and everything! Full hookup sites, spots are big and concrete roads."
Overnight stop planning: Paradise Island works well for quick stays. Linda M. shares, "Spent one quick night here. This is a campground with mostly full timers, but we got a nice easy spot to back in and get out easily."
Dumpsite challenges: Some parks have limited dump facilities. Michael J. warns about Paradise Island: "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."
Site layout considerations: The West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA has specific site arrangements. Amanda W. notes, "The campground is pretty tight & the sites aren't very attractive but being next to the safari is awesome!"
