Homestead, Florida sits at the southern tip of mainland Florida, just 9 miles from the entrance to the Florida Keys and 12 miles from Everglades National Park. The area has a tropical climate with year-round warm temperatures averaging 75-85°F and high humidity, especially during summer months. Camping options range from established RV resorts with full hookups to more primitive tent sites within the surrounding natural areas.
What to do
Snorkeling and diving excursions: Biscayne National Park is primarily underwater and accessible by boat from Homestead. "Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and everything water. A boat is needed to reach these campgrounds and are tent only," notes Lindsay B. about Elliott Key — Biscayne National Park.
Fruit stands and local produce: The agricultural area surrounding Homestead features numerous tropical fruit farms and roadside stands. While staying at Encore Miami Everglades, Jennifer A. recommends, "Close to Miami Everglades is a fruit stand called Robert Is Here. Don't miss it!"
Kayaking through mangroves: Paddle through the unique ecosystems of coastal mangrove forests. At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Elliott B. shares they had "an amazing time renting a kayak and exploring the coves through the mangroves and doing some snorkeling there. We could swim around with some huge Tarpin which could have cared less about us being in their home."
What campers like
Access to multiple national parks: Homestead's location allows campers to visit both Everglades and Biscayne National Parks. Paula C. notes about Miami Everglades RV Resort, "An easy drive to visit the Everglades National Park and the Biscayne National Park."
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the reasonable rates at some campgrounds. Tod H. reviews Larry & Penny Thompson Park saying, "At $17/night for a tent site, we got wifi, access to laundry, great showers, and a perfectly adequate site."
Tropical plant nurseries: The Homestead area is known for its agricultural character. Joseph notes about Miami Everglades RV Resort, "It is technically a Miami address, but there are more nurseries and farms than a Miami feel." Similarly, Butch S. observed the resort is "situated in the mirror middle of acres upon acres of ornamental trees and shrubs for sale by various companies."
What you should know
Security concerns at some locations: Take normal precautions with valuables. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, Marta L. cautions, "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. This state park is NOT secure!"
Varying water quality for swimming: Not all waterfront areas are suitable for swimming. Jennifer E. shares about Key Largo Kampground & Marina, "The beaches at this campsite are not what you would think for the keys nor would I consider them a beach, maybe more like a launch site or previous boat launch. The water looks more like a swamp."
Guide
