Cabin accommodations near Everglades National Park offer strategic access points to explore this unique subtropical wilderness that spans 1.5 million acres. The area sits at just a few feet above sea level, creating distinct seasonal water patterns that affect camping conditions year-round. Florida's southernmost national park features several cabin rental options that can serve as basecamp while visiting the region's diverse ecosystems.
What to do
Explore by kayak or canoe: At Trail Lakes Campground, visitors can rent kayaks to navigate the mangrove waterways. "They offer guided trips, or you can book from the many other businesses in the area offering swamp buggy, airboat, hiking, tram, fishing, paddling/boat trips," notes one camper who appreciated the location as "a fantastic base when exploring Big Cypress and the Everglades NP."
Nighttime stargazing: The remote location means minimal light pollution for excellent stargazing. "It was a full moon the night we stayed and the stars were still incredibly bright as there is very little light pollution. Sunset was beautiful," reports a Trail Lakes guest who visited in February.
Wildlife viewing: Cabins provide safe shelter while allowing for wildlife observation. "If you're looking for birds, nearby Eco pond or the waterfront near the bayside campsites offer a nice variety for minimal effort," mentions a visitor to Flamingo Campground, where structured accommodations keep guests safe while experiencing nature.
What campers like
Private island feel: Cabin guests at Encore Fiesta Key appreciate the waterfront location. "We absolutely love this place. Great location to most of the Florida Keys. Super dog friendly and everyone seems to be loving it here. Has everything you need or want here," shares one visitor who considered staying "all winter."
Built-in convenience: Eco-tents at Flamingo Campground provide cabin-like amenities without roughing it. "The eco-tents are equipped with a queen size bed, pillows, bed linens, blankets, fluffy large bath towels, a fan and bedside lights," writes a camper who found the furnished tents more comfortable than expected. "There is an electrical outlet box with one spare outlet."
Accessibility to activities: Many cabin locations serve as central bases for exploring. "We used this as our landing area to enjoy the local beaches, amenities, and natural sites," notes a family who stayed at Encore Miami Everglades where they found the "pool looked nicely appointed and clean."
What you should know
Insect preparation is essential: Beyond mosquitoes, tiny biting insects can be problematic. "Not just mosquitoes but those tiny gnats, just horrible really," warns a camper at Flamingo Campground T-Loop. "I'd suggest bringing one of those screened in pop up shelters."
Limited services: The remote location means being prepared with supplies. "Remember everything you need because it's a long trip back to Florida City or Homestead the nearest places for picking up supplies," advises a Flamingo visitor. "The shop at the marina has some basic snacks and drinks."
Communication challenges: Cell service varies greatly by location and carrier. "No Verizon coverage, but I've been told there is AT&T. Wifi is available at the visitors center," notes one Everglades cabin guest. Another camper confirms, "Only AT&T SERVICE, with Wi-Fi at visitor center one mile away."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Campground offers cabin stays with water-based adventures. "We had an incredible experience at John Pennekamp. There is so much to do we biked to nearly everything including nearby restaurants, we hung at the beach, kayaked and did trail walks with the dog," shares a family who found the campground quiet with "no issues whatsoever."
Budget planning: Cabin accommodations vary widely in price. "We stayed in one of the eco-tents. The eco-tents are nicely appointed, but they are a bit of a splurge," notes a visitor who found the premium shelter worth the cost for family comfort.
Safety considerations: Keeping food properly stored is crucial with children. "Cooking or food of ANY KIND is not allowed in the tents as it would attract bugs and other wildlife," warns a camper who used designated cooking areas instead.
Tips from RVers
Water supply management: Water issues can occur at remote locations. "MAKE SURE YOU TAKE EXTRA WATER, OR FILL YOUR TANKS," warns a visitor to Chokoloskee RV Park. "Our site was directly across from the bath house. We had no trouble leveling our trailer and getting set up. Fire pits are at every site and fires are encouraged."
Site selection strategy: Many parks offer varying levels of privacy and amenities. "We were in electric site number 1 which included shade trees. No water at the sites but potable water and dump facilities are provided," notes a T-Loop camper who found the large paved pads spacious despite limited hookups.
Weather adaptations: Seasonal differences affect cabin camping comfort. "We stayed at flamingo in late June at the start of the hot/rainy/buggy season. We did not find the bugs to be too terrible although the gage on the wall of the visitor center had them just slightly into the 'horrible' range," shares an experienced camper who found conditions better than expected.
