Camping near Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park and surrounding areas feature a diverse mix of camping environments, from chickee platforms over water to beachfront sites and established campgrounds. Flamingo Campground and Long Pine Key Campground within the park offer developed options for tent, RV, and cabin camping. The broader region encompasses Big Cypress National Preserve with additional campgrounds like Monument Lake and Midway. Most unique to this ecosystem are the backcountry chickee platforms—raised wooden structures built over water—that provide rare camping experiences accessible only by boat, canoe, or kayak.
Permits are required for all backcountry camping and can be obtained 24 hours in advance of park entry. Seasonal considerations dramatically affect camping conditions, with most developed campgrounds operating on limited schedules. Long Pine Key is open November through May, while Monument Lake operates from August to April. "The night sky is absolutely incredible from this piece of Florida real estate and in the winter there is a steady breeze that keeps the bugs at bay," noted one camper about Highland Beach. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums present significant challenges, especially after sunset, and can penetrate some tent screens. Many sites lack drinking water, and all backcountry locations require paddlers to pack out all trash.
Chickee platforms receive consistently high reviews from visitors seeking solitude and immersion in the Everglades ecosystem. These wooden structures include porta-potties and some have cooking tables, though many lack ladders for easy access during low tides. Wildlife viewing opportunities remain a major draw, with campers reporting dolphins, sharks, and numerous birds. "We saw so much wildlife by making the trek to the campsite by motorboat," one visitor shared about Canepatch campground. The backcountry sites provide unparalleled stargazing, particularly during winter months when winds help minimize insect activity. For those seeking more accessible options, developed campgrounds at Flamingo and Midway offer amenities like electric hookups, dump stations and drinking water, though they lack showers and tend to fill quickly during peak season.











