Miami Springs offers unique camping accommodations within close proximity to urban attractions. Located in Miami-Dade County at an elevation of 7 feet above sea level, this area experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter months bring milder conditions averaging 76°F during the day and 60°F at night.
What to do
Kayaking and water sports: At Oleta River State Park Campground, visitors can access extensive paddle sport opportunities. One visitor notes, "You can bike, snorkel, paddle, run, picnic, rent cabins, primitive camp, and even get married. No bugs during the day."
Mountain biking: Larry & Penny Thompson Park offers shaded paths for cycling. A camper mentioned, "We camped here for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area. Fishing was good in the pond nearby."
Zoo visits: The Miami Zoo sits adjacent to Larry & Penny Thompson Park. As one reviewer states, "This campsite is a great central base camp for those visiting Biscayne NP/ Everglades NP and Miami. Clean and safe, with spots for both RVs and tents."
Water park activities: Several parks feature water recreation areas with slides and swimming pools. A camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park shared, "Other attractions: zoo. beach/waterslide. I would go back again."
What campers like
Affordable urban camping: Southern Comfort RV Resort provides budget-friendly options close to Miami. A camper noted, "Very cozy place, plenty of shades, little swimming pool and friendly people all around. You just can't beat the price! $18 if you have Passport America membership."
Yurt accommodations: Quiet Waters Park offers yurt camping near Miami Springs, Florida with waterfront settings. One camper shared, "My husband and I rented a campground flat in December. It was on the water, had a grill, electricity, fire pit, tent, running water and was pet friendly."
Swimming pools: Many campgrounds maintain pools for cooling off during hot weather. At Paradise Island RV Resort, a visitor mentioned, "Staff very friendly! Very respectful of COVID as well. Always appreciate that."
Clean facilities: Despite urban locations, many campgrounds maintain good standards. One reviewer at Larry & Penny Thompson Park said, "Bathhouses for the RV's were in good shape and well maintained. The bathhouse for the tenters not so much."
What you should know
Security considerations: Some campers report theft issues at certain parks. One visitor at Larry & Penny Thompson Park warned, "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."
Length-of-stay restrictions: Paradise Island RV Resort and other parks have varying policies. A Larry & Penny Thompson Park camper noted, "Wish the website was clearer on length of stay - 30 days for RVs and 7 days for tent campers. After 7 days, you have to leave and can't return for 30 days."
Seasonal crowds: Winter brings significant population increases to Florida campgrounds. A Southern Comfort RV Resort visitor shared, "The park fills up quickly come the winter time with the 'Snow Birds' but the park overall is wonderful."
Noise levels: Urban camping means traffic noise. A Southern Comfort visitor mentioned, "Traffic noise can be loud at certain times of the day."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Southern Comfort RV Resort and other parks have local wildlife. One camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park warned, "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."
Yurt camping options: Families seeking Miami Springs yurt camping can find accommodations at Quiet Waters Park. A visitor shared, "Good location in the middle of urban area, cabins to rent. We've used for daycamp without overnight, but you can do that if you want."
Weekend planning: Many parks host social activities that can affect noise levels. A camper at Southern Comfort noted, "Word of advice don't go on a Friday night. Very loud and everyone is drinking."
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies between camping sections. A visitor to Larry & Penny Thompson Park observed, "The RV's have WiFi around their pods... There is a kind of second class feel to the tenters."
Tips from RVers
Urban navigation: Large rigs face challenges in Miami traffic. A Paradise Island RV Resort visitor advised, "If heading south and coming off the FL Turnpike, you have to get over several lanes in a short distance to make the left turn on to Palm Drive."
Site selection: At Paradise Island RV Resort, choosing the right spot matters. A camper mentioned, "This is an older campground with a lot of full-time RVers. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful and will do whatever they can to make you satisfied."
Dump station access: Facilities can be limited. One camper complained, "The dumpsite is between the office and the fence. This requires you to back into position or drive down a narrow path and make 3 tight turns. Florida has NO dump sites at rest or service areas!"
Gate hours: Check park entrance restrictions before arrival. A Larry & Penny Thompson Park visitor mentioned, "Fairly dispersed camping lots of grass, big park, gates locked at 8pm."
