Glamping options near Islamorada provide access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay waters. The subtropical climate creates conditions where insects become a factor, particularly during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F. The Florida Keys archipelago stretches 125 miles from mainland Florida, with Islamorada located at mile markers 73-86 along the Overseas Highway.
What to do
Water activities beyond the beach: The Florida Keys offer excellent snorkeling opportunities directly from campgrounds. At Buttonwood Campground — Bahia Honda State Park, campers can access multiple snorkeling spots. "Both beaches were teeming with various fish. Be careful of the current near the rope. We personally enjoyed the current because it took less effort and carried us along at a nice pace," notes one visitor who experienced the bayside beach with its rock jetties and swim area.
Wildlife viewing excursions: The Everglades ecosystem provides opportunities to observe native species. A camper at Flamingo Campground reported, "The overall park amenities were nice. We enjoyed our visit and got to see a lot of the famous wildlife." For bird watchers specifically, "If you're looking for birds, nearby Eco pond or the waterfront near the bayside campsites offer a nice variety for minimal effort."
Historic structure access: Visit the old Henry Flagler Bridge lookout at Bahia Honda for historical context. "We also managed to enjoy the short walk up to the old Henry Flagler Bridge lookout over the island. That site is a must see!" according to a visitor who stayed at Buttonwood Campground.
What campers like
Weather diversity and challenges: While winter offers comfortable camping, summer brings distinct experiences. A camper at Flamingo Campground — Everglades National Park observed, "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 (although the gage on the wall of the visitor center had them just slightly into the 'horrible' range). We live in Michigan's U.P. so we have a fairly high bug tolerance."
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Jolly Roger RV Resort, "This campground does not have a beach but it has water access and the water was amazing and calm(bring water shoes is rocky in the water)." The resort serves as "a wonderful place to spend time watching the sunset, snorkeling, fishing, paddling, or taking a dip."
Limited connectivity: The disconnect from technology appeals to many campers. At Flamingo Campground, visitors note "No internet or phone service (other than AT&T). Was wonderful to escape!!" This limited connectivity extends throughout much of the Keys, providing a true break from digital demands.
What you should know
Bug preparation is essential: Insects can significantly impact camping experiences in this region. A visitor to Bayside Campground — Bahia Honda State Park warned, "Camping on the Bayside in Bahia Honda can get buggy at night, especially if there isn't a breeze," while another cautioned about "TONS of no-see-ums and if you didn't have a tent with a fine enough screen, there was no escape. Do not camp here unless you have a noseeum tent! They literally drove us all insane."
Water management challenges: Campgrounds may experience occasional infrastructure issues. At Flamingo Campground, a camper 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. Understand things happen, but communication was horrible." When planning a glamping trip close to Islamorada, Village of Islands, Florida, bringing extra water is advisable.
Limited site privacy: Many Florida Keys campgrounds feature open layouts. At Flamingo Campground, "There is NO privacy at any of the sites--totally wide open area, no vegetation," and another camper noted it is "a big open field, so don't expect visual privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Campground biking opportunities: Families with children can enjoy on-site biking. At Flamingo Campground, "Our son loved this because he could ride his bike all around the campground to his hearts content." When glamping with families near Islamorada, bicycle-friendly environments provide valuable recreation options when not engaged in water activities.
Shade availability considerations: The subtropical sun can be intense. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, "The tent area is off to one side and well shaded by mature trees. It's an area rather than sites. You pick your spot, put up a tent and place a large numbered sign by your area and you've got your spot."
Tent camping surface challenges: Ground conditions can affect comfort levels. At Bahia Honda, "The ground is all hard, pokey coral (bring a serious air mattress for tent camping), also when it rains it just sits on the ground without soaking in (aka you might get wet)." Quality sleeping pads or air mattresses become particularly important when glamping in the Florida Keys.
Tips from RVers
Gate access timing: At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, "gates locked at 8pm," which requires planning evening activities accordingly. Similar restrictions exist at other campgrounds throughout the Keys.
Campsite selection strategy: When glamping in luxury RVs near Islamorada, site selection matters. At Southern Comfort RV Resort, "The sites are decent in size. The park fills up quickly come the winter time with the 'Snow Birds' but the park overall is wonderful." Seasonal booking patterns significantly impact availability.
Hook-up variations: Electrical and water access varies across campgrounds. At Buttonwood Campground, visitors note "It's a state park so no full hook ups," while Jolly Roger RV Resort offers full hookups, including "electric-hookups, fifty-amp-hookups, thirty-amp-hookups... sewer-hookups, water-hookups."
