Cabin camping options near Islamorada provide convenient access to both the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean sides of the Florida Keys. Winter temperatures typically range from 65-75°F, while summer months can reach the high 80s with significant humidity. The cabins in this area sit at minimal elevation, usually just a few feet above sea level, making them vulnerable to storm surges during hurricane season.
What to do
Snorkeling from shore: Several resorts offer easy water access without needing boat tours. At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Campground, "We biked to nearly everything including nearby restaurants, we hung at the beach, kayaked and did trail walks with the dog. Water was a bit cold for us to snorkel but lots of folks did," reports Maria E.
Kayaking through mangroves: Paddle through protected waterways directly from your cabin site. "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. We live in Michigan's U.P. so we have a fairly high bug tolerance," notes Rob Y. from Flamingo Campground.
Marine wildlife viewing: Observe manatees and other sea creatures from marinas and docks. "Tons of manatee hang out in the marina at the resort. You can get great pictures of them," shares Kirsten J. from Encore Fiesta Key about their waterfront experience.
What campers like
Sunset gatherings: Many waterfront cabin areas become social hubs at dusk. At Encore Fiesta Key, "We love sunset point everyone hangs out there, shares drinks makes friends etc. some people bring guitars and sing and hang out, very laid back & happy atmosphere," according to Kirsten J.
Seasonal activities: Winter months bring organized social events to many resorts. Jeffrey P. notes that Fiesta Key offers "free things from them like begals and juice, ice cream, wine and cheese" during peak season stays.
Marina access: Cabin locations with private marinas allow for boat storage and fishing. "We have a toddler and each time she loved the pool & beach area. We love sunset point... Tons of manatee hang out in the marina at the resort," Kirsten J. shares about Kings Kamp facilities.
What you should know
Summer heat strategies: Cabins without adequate cooling become challenging in July/August. "We went in July 2020 it was HOT. things were closed in the park... had to go outside of park to eat and find things to do," reports Joseph L. about summer stays at Fiesta Key.
Insect preparation: No-see-ums and mosquitoes require serious protection in warmer months. Denise K. from Buttonwood Campground shares, "The no-see-ums were prevalent in the late afternoon. Deep woods off heavily applied along with long sleeve sun shirts, light weight capris and a head/face scarf helped us enjoy the sunsets."
Water contamination concerns: Test reports for well water should be verified before arrival. According to Tom M. about Encore Miami Everglades, "We were only informed upon arrival that the campground's well water contained fecal matter and was a potential source of E. coli. This failure to provide a safety warning ahead of time was irresponsible."
Site selection awareness: Request specific cabin locations when booking. One visitor noted, "Try for waterfront tents 3,4 5, 6, 7 or 8" at Flamingo Campground, while another advised, "Would not recommend this campground if you are tent camping. It was packed with RVs and the spaces are very close together" about John Pennekamp.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Cabins near swimming areas offer cooling relief in hot weather. Julie M. shares about Encore Fiesta Key: "Nice restaurant on site with a full marina. Beach access and pool. Play ground for children. I love coming here and just walking around the water area you see tons of fish and lobsters."
Kid-friendly beach spots: Shallow, protected swimming areas work best for young children. "We have a toddler and each time she loved the pool & beach area," notes Kirsten J. about family experiences at Fiesta Key.
Educational wildlife viewing: Arrange stays during seasons when ranger programs are offered. Rob Y. from Flamingo Campground reports, "The overall park amenities were nice. We enjoyed our visit and got to see a lot of the famous wildlife."
Entertainment options: Some resorts offer organized activities for children. At Fiesta Key, "Some of our favorite parts of this resort were the weekly farmers market, the Easter egg hunt on Easter, the restaurant, snorkeling from the shore, and the how they pickup your trash for you right at your site," according to one family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup verification: Many cabin areas share utilities with RV sections, so confirm what's available. At John Pennekamp, one camper found, "Site 20 was great, full hookups, only issue was the no see ums - make sure you bring a thermacell bc they are no joke!"
Water access planning: Cabin locations with boat ramps allow for bringing personal watercraft. At Kings Kamp, "They have a boat ramp and slips. The sites away from the water are very close together. Prime sites along the water offer nice views," notes Jean C.
Height restrictions: Some cabin areas have overhead clearance limitations. For Buttonwood Campground, visitors with vehicles with roof racks should verify clearance under bridges to cabin areas.
Storm preparation: Cabins in this area are vulnerable to hurricanes from June through November. One camper at Flamingo Campground reported, "Our last night the water went out and all bathrooms in all loops were closed. Apparently this can be common with pump going out."
