Larry & Penny Thompson Park in Miami offers camping options 30 miles south of Hialeah. The park features tent camping with a 7-day maximum stay policy for tent campers compared to longer stays permitted for RVs. Winter temperatures typically range from 60-75°F, making it popular for northerners seeking warmer camping conditions during colder months.
What to do
Mountain biking at Oleta River State Park: The Oleta River State Park Campground features 15 miles of off-road biking trails suitable for various skill levels. A visitor mentioned, "Some bike trails get flooded and are closed sometimes. The website gives the latest updates."
Swimming options near camp: Campers at Larry & Penny Thompson Park have access to a supervised swimming pool. One reviewer noted, "The pool is clean and guarded by life guards," making it a safer alternative to natural swimming areas for less confident swimmers.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer fishing options. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, one camper reported, "Fishing was good in the pond nearby. Beware of the feral cats and raccoons though. We spent an entire night fending them off with a slingshot."
What campers like
Urban convenience with nature access: Paradise Island RV Resort provides glamping in Hialeah-adjacent areas with city benefits. A visitor stated, "Campground in the city, great guest services, friendly staff. Near grocery store, and everything! Full hookup sites, spots are big and concrete roads."
Affordability for extended stays: The Southern Comfort RV Resort offers budget-friendly glamping near Hialeah with Passport America discounts. A camper mentioned, "Very cozy place, plenty of shades, little swimming pool and friendly people all around. You just can't beat the price! $18 if you have Passport America membership."
Central location for national parks: Larry & Penny Thompson Park serves as an ideal base for exploring multiple parks. A camper explained, "This campground is a great central base camp for those visiting Biscayne NP/ Everglades NP and Miami. Clean and safe, with spots for both RVs and tents."
What you should know
Security considerations: Some campgrounds have reported theft issues. One Larry & Penny Thompson Park visitor 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. Talking to neighbors today we found out that theft of bicycles and other items is common here."
Noise levels vary by location: When glamping near Hialeah at Southern Comfort RV Resort, expect potential noise. A camper noted, "Traffic noise can be loud at certain times of the day," while another mentioned, "Very loud and everyone is drinking and I really wish the gates would have been closed to the public."
Reservation policies differ: Some parks have strict policies about length of stay. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, a reviewer pointed out, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pack water toys: Quiet Waters Park offers water-based activities for kids. A camper shared, "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."
Visit nearby attractions: Several campgrounds provide easy access to family-friendly destinations. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, a visitor mentioned, "Near a major street, so it can get noisy - and on weekends you can hear the music from a local bar," indicating convenient access to entertainment options.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Prepare children for wildlife sightings but take precautions. One Larry & Penny Thompson Park camper advised, "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."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Some glamping locations near Hialeah have tight spaces. A Southern Comfort RV Resort visitor noted, "The campground is tight but manageable. Pulled in late and security guard was super helpful. The entrance is a little hidden and tight but doable. We were towing a 36' travel trailer."
Consider access challenges: Road access can be tricky. As one Southern Comfort guest explained, "If heading south and coming off the FL Turnpike, you have to get over several lanes in a short distance to make the left turn on to Palm Drive. Lucky for me, there were some understanding FL drivers that let me over."
Verify dump station availability: Not all parks offer proper dump facilities. A Paradise Island RV Resort reviewer 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. Florida has NO dump sites at rest or service areas!"
