Tent camping near Marathon Shores, Florida centers on accessing the unique mangrove ecosystems and coastal environments of the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park. The region sits at near sea level elevation with a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Most tent-only backcountry sites require watercraft access, creating a camping experience that combines paddling skills with wilderness immersion.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Backcountry chickee platforms provide exceptional wildlife spotting locations. At Shark Point Chickee, campers report diverse marine encounters: "I saw sharks, dolphins, alligators, and different type of fish" while another mentions "Nobody else for miles. Wind kept bugs blown away."
Paddling exploration: Most tent camping sites near Marathon Shores require paddling to reach them. For beginners, Pearl Bay Chickee offers an accessible introduction: "It is among the shortest paddles for any chickee in the Everglades. Starts off through beautiful winding mangroves trails, then a short jaunt across the more open Pearl Bay and you're there!"
Beach camping: For those seeking tent camping on sand rather than platforms, some locations offer direct beach access. At Northwest Cape, you can "Just pick a spot above the high tide line to pitch your tent. Tide goes way out!! Fires on beach recommended to help keep bugs at bay."
What campers like
Isolation and privacy: Tent campers consistently mention the solitude of backcountry sites. At Lane Bay Chickee, "Unlike the other chickees, it is a single platform, so your group will be the only ones out there... we were completely alone."
Unique camping structures: The chickee platforms themselves are distinctive camping locations. Many have been recently renovated, like Pearl Bay which is described as "Brand new and ADA certified as much as a platform over water can be! Both platforms have ladders and the eastern platform has small steps down towards the water level for those with limited mobility."
Fishing access: Many tent campers appreciate the direct fishing opportunities from chickee platforms. At Lane Bay Chickee, reviewers noted "Decent fishing for smaller fish (little snook, red drum, jack)" while others mentioned successful catches during their paddles in and out of campsites.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Nearly every review mentions insects as a significant consideration. Prepare for both mosquitoes and no-see-ums which are especially active at dusk. At Hells Bay Chickee, campers advise: "Pack some cards or something to do in the tent after sunset before bed" since being in your tent when bugs emerge is essential.
Bathroom facilities: Toilet availability varies across sites. Most chickees have portable toilets but their condition can vary. Some reviewers note "The porta-potty was very clean" at Lane Bay, while at Hells Bay a camper found "The porta-potty doesn't lock and someone put a string on it to hold it shut."
Weather awareness: Wind conditions significantly impact both paddling difficulty and insect activity. A paddler at Shark Point noted they "Got lucky with the tide being with us for most of the way," while others warn "Winds can change drastically and quickly, so make sure to tie of your watercraft really well; we went from flat calm to 25knots in just 5 minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families new to backcountry camping, select shorter paddling routes. Pearl Bay Chickee is recommended as "perfect for a first time paddle camper" with its relatively short distance from launch points.
Pack entertainment: Since bugs often force campers into tents early, bring activities for children. One reviewer recommends: "bring cards or a book to entertain you in the tent" after sunset when mosquitoes become active.
Consider seasonal timing: Winter camping offers more comfortable conditions for children. At Backcountry Clubhouse Beach, a camper warns about summer conditions: "Very wet (August)... Mosquitoes & no-see-ums can be horrible if no breeze... Better not to attempt in summer."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Traditional tent camping near Marathon Shores offers experiences unavailable to RVers. Consider leaving your RV at established campgrounds like Long Key State Park Campground while tent camping at chickees. A reviewer notes the park "offers waterfront campsites that you can paddle from" making it a good base camp.
Vehicle security: When leaving vehicles to paddle to backcountry sites, select secure parking. Some paddlers mention concerns about valuables when parking for multiple days, recommending removal of all valuables before embarking on overnight chickee trips.
Preparation logistics: Since most tent sites require paddling, RVers need extra preparation time. Plan for equipment organization since you'll transfer from vehicle to watercraft. Pearl Bay chickee paddlers recommend "bring the fly for your tent" as chickee roofs don't fully protect from rain.
