Camping options near Hialeah, Florida range from urban parks to more natural settings within a 20-40 mile radius. Most campgrounds in this metropolitan area feature concrete or paved sites rather than traditional wilderness camping. Summer temperatures consistently reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping (November-April) offers more comfortable conditions with temperatures averaging 70-80°F during the day and lower mosquito activity.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: C.B. Smith Park Campground provides several fishing spots around its scenic lake. "The lake/dock area is beautiful, and there's a massive playground across from the campground in the main park," notes a camper who stayed for an extended period.
Mountain biking on established trails: Markham Park Campground offers dedicated mountain biking trails within the park boundaries. "Lots of room to roam here. Great mountain bike trails, lakes, woods, disc golf, flora and fauna. Plus amenities you don't often find like a large outdoor shooting range and an RC airplane strip," reports one visitor.
Water sports and paddling: With multiple lakes and waterways, campers can enjoy various water activities. "Stayed here for a week and loved it. The basketball court on the other side of the fence can be a little loud until about 11pm but I'm a night guy so it didn't bother me. Other than that it's quiet, clean and close to many restaurants and stores," shared one camper at C.B. Smith Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Urban parks still offer chances to observe local wildlife. "We got the absolute best spot there was. We've got the water way right behind us with a wide open grassy area. Great for fishing or if you've got a jet ski you can easily get on and off right there. There are gators in the water which is much deeper than one would think," reports a camper at Markham Park.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground receives consistent praise for its upkeep. "We were pleasantly surprised by this park. The sites were level concrete pads, bathrooms air conditioned and clean as were the showers. Park is beautiful and they have events happening- we stumbled on a Renaissance Festival. Heading back for another stay," shared one satisfied visitor.
Proximity to attractions: Located within driving distance of beaches, the Everglades, and Miami attractions, these campgrounds serve as convenient basebases. "This place is situated in the mirror middle of acres upon acres of ornamental trees and shrubs for sale by various companies. Overall I really enjoyed it. Miami and the keys from this location easily," reports a camper at Encore Miami Everglades.
Water views at select sites: Many campgrounds offer premium waterfront locations. "The sunsets over the water are spectacular. Even though I'm a local, you never get tired of watching them. My site was private and (mostly) clean. Easy pull throughs available if you're not a savvy backer-upper," notes a camper at C.B. Smith Park.
Security features: Several parks prioritize camper safety with controlled access. "Very well lit at night with security. The RV park is located in the back of the county park, so there is plenty to do: water park, outdoor gym and regular play areas for kids. This would be a great spot for a family," shares a visitor to Topeekeegee Yugnee Park.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Urban campgrounds experience traffic and other city sounds. "Train tracks behind it and highway is not far so it's kinda loud at times," reports a camper at Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, while another notes: "The campground does sit next to a train track I believe its a commuter line so there is an early train 4am which is startling."
Park access restrictions: Some parks have limited entry hours. "Other downside is park closes at 8, you can still enter through the exit gate until midnight and then have to call security to get in/out," explains a Topeekeegee Yugnee Park camper.
Variable tent camping options: While RV sites are plentiful, tent camping is more limited. A visitor to C.B. Smith Park Campground explains: "The tenting area is characerless, treeless, the facilities are far removed and poorly maintained, in spite of being relatively new, and not well policed. The RV section is more inviting. It is shaded, well kept, and visually appealing."
Seasonal closures and construction: Check ahead for facility availability. "Right now, nothing is open until memorial day weekend. So no beach and no pool. Also half the park is under construction, and for whatever reason all of the bathrooms and showers are closed in the whole park," reports a camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and water amenities: Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA features a refreshing pool area. "Davie KOA is beautiful, clean and very welcoming. Each site has new outdoor furniture and is clean. The pool is crystal clear and welcoming. It's located near many attractions and shopping. Beautiful sunset viewing across the street at Vista View Park and easy highway access," notes a recent visitor.
Length-of-stay regulations: Different rules apply for tents versus RVs. "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. They do provide a list of other local campgrounds you can move to, though," shares a Larry & Penny Thompson Park camper.
Recreation options for different ages: Parks offer varied activities for children. "The staff was very nice and went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed. 7 minutes to Ft Lauderdale Beach and 7 minutes the other way to Seminole Hard Rock Casino Hollywood," reports a visitor to Yacht Haven Park & Marina.
Budget-friendly amenities: Look for included recreational features. "In the park there is a water park, an outside gym, mini-golf, batting cages and driving range. There are many gazebos with tables and grills for group picnicking," notes a C.B. Smith Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Site angles and access: Many campgrounds have tight turns. "The roads getting in the RV park are good but watch out for branches with big units outside the park to the north. Had good power, good water pressure and cable but didn't use it. All paved or concrete," advises a Topeekeegee Yugnee Park visitor.
Limited pull-through availability: Back-in sites are common. "This KOA was close to family and friends. Stayed for five nights. It was clean and I felt safe. Staff were very helpful getting backed in and set up. Down side/1: all the sites are so close together," notes a Davie KOA camper.
Hookup positioning challenges: Some sites have unusual utility arrangements. "They had given us a pull in site for a bus, and we were unable to hook up to sewer, and had to run our electric cable and water hose under the camper. Luckily we were able to reach," explains a Yacht Haven Park visitor.
Concrete pad advantages: Level sites make setup easier. "The campground was very clean with full hookups and sewer directly at our camp site," shares a C.B. Smith Park camper, while another adds "The sites were level concrete pads" at Topeekeegee Yugnee Park.
