Camping sites near Miami Springs, Florida occupy a range of urban and semi-natural settings ranging from county parks to private RV resorts. Most camping options sit on flat terrain at an elevation of only 6-10 feet above sea level. Peak camping season runs October through April when humidity drops and temperatures moderate. Mosquito activity remains a constant consideration, with most campers reporting the need for repellent year-round.
What to do
Airboat adventures nearby: Larry & Penny Thompson Park serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby Everglades. "We camped here for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area. 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 and they didn't bother us again," notes Finn H. from Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Mountain biking trails: Markham Park Campground offers dedicated mountain bike trails for various skill levels. "Lots of room to roam here. Great mountain bike trails, lakes, woods, disc golf, flora and fauna. Plus amenities you don't often find like a large outdoor shooting range (don't worry, it is quiet at night) and an RC airplane strip," according to Jeffrey W. from Markham Park Campground.
Urban park exploration: Campers can access multiple recreational facilities without leaving their camping area. "The park is big with a paved walking path around the park. On the west side of the park there's a lot of big mature trees that give a lot shade and are just nice looking. There's a water park for the kids, volleyball, many gazebos with grilling areas and more," shares Mark B. about Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Despite urban locations, many Miami-area campgrounds maintain high standards. "The sites were level concrete pads, bathrooms air conditioned and clean as were the showers. Park is beautiful and they have events happening—we stumbled on a Renaissance Festival," notes Bernadette P. about Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Even in urban settings, campers enjoy observing local wildlife. "It's a very pretty with lots of mature shade trees. The RV's are assigned space around several pods. Each pod has its own bathhouse with laundry facilities," reports Tod H. about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Security measures: Many campgrounds provide added security for urban camping. "Very well lit at night with security. The RV park is located in the back of the county park, so there is plenty to do: water park, outdoor gym and regular play areas for kids," according to Amanda about Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all sites within the same campground offer equal experiences. "We were originally assigned a campsite right next to another group who was taking up a lot of space so the office staff graciously worked with us and let us choose our own site," shares Aly E. about Encore Miami Everglades.
Seasonal impacts: Facilities may have limited availability depending on time of year. "Right now, nothing is open until memorial day weekend. So no beach and no pool. Also half the park is under construction, and for whatever reason (covid?) All of the bathrooms and showers are closed in the whole park," reports Nikaela B. about their stay at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience occasional utility issues. "On several occasions our water went out (in the middle of a shower and another time during dinner prep, and yet again while doing laundry!) Cable also went out several times," notes Nancy about Encore Miami Everglades.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation for children. "This is city owned and operated Park/Campground. There is a great fire ring with benches for bonfires and a great Beach volleyball court. The pool is clean and guarded by life guards," explains Tod H. at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Event planning: Campgrounds often host special activities worth scheduling around. "The park is beautiful and they have events happening—we stumbled on a Renaissance Festival. Heading back for another stay," shares Bernadette P. about Topeekeegee Yugnee Park.
Gate hours: Campgrounds may restrict entry during late hours. "Gates locked at 8pm. Lots of trees scattered but ok shade," mentions Paul about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Tips from RVers
RV restrictions: Some campgrounds limit which RV types are permitted. "They also don't allow anything other than motorhomes, 2-wheel dollies, TT, or 5th wheels. No other trailers, no van conversions," warns Nikaela B. about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Site layout: C.B. Smith Park offers a variety of site configurations. "We used to come here in the 80's when they first opened. The area has definitely blown up since then but the park remains the same. Quiet, clean and very peaceful (unless there's a game but of course that's ok) We had site 48 which I highly recommend," advises Derick B. from C.B. Smith Park Campground.
Internet connectivity: Signal strength varies by location. "Verizon data slow even with booster. Close to Everglades and Route 1. Site pretty level good hookups," notes Paul about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
