Camping options near Miami, Florida range from urban county parks to more developed RV resorts within a short drive of city attractions. Winter temperatures averaging 60-74°F make December through February the optimal camping season, with significantly less mosquito activity than summer months when afternoon thunderstorms are common. Most Miami campsites require advance reservations, particularly during the peak winter season.
What to do
Water recreation access: Oleta River State Park Campground offers kayaking opportunities with numerous watercraft available for rent. "You can bike, snorkel, paddle, run, picnic, rent cabins, primitive camp, and even get married. No bugs during the day," notes one visitor who appreciated the park's 15 miles of trails across 1,000+ acres.
Zoo exploration: Larry & Penny Thompson Park provides convenient access to Zoo Miami, located directly adjacent to the campground. "Near residential neighborhood but quiet. Flat sites... other attractions: zoo. beach/waterslide," reports one camper who enjoyed the location.
National park visits: Use Miami as a base camp for exploring both Everglades and Biscayne National Parks. "We camped here for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area," writes one tent camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park, noting the "fishing was good in the pond nearby" for those staying local.
What campers like
Modern amenities: C.B. Smith Park Campground offers full-hookup sites with concrete pads. One camper noted it was "very clean with full hookups and sewer directly at our camp site," making it convenient for those wanting modern comforts.
Swimming options: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground features a clean swimming pool with lifeguards on duty. "The pool is crystal clear and welcoming," remarked one visitor who appreciated this amenity during hot Florida days. Another mentioned the park has a "water park for the kids" among its many recreational options.
Urban convenience: Most Miami-area campgrounds provide easy access to city amenities. "This KOA was close to family and friends... it was clean and I felt safe. Staff were very helpful getting backed in and set up," wrote a visitor to the Davie/Fort Lauderdale KOA, highlighting the location's practicality for those visiting locals.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Miami have noise considerations. At Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, "the campground does sit next to a train track i believe its a commuter line so there is an early train 4am which is startling," according to one recent review.
Security concerns: While most Miami campgrounds are generally secure, standard precautions are recommended. One unfortunate visitor to Larry & Penny Thompson Park reported, "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," reminding campers to maintain vigilance with valuables.
Stay limits: Encore Miami Everglades and other area campgrounds have varying stay restrictions. "Not the best not the worst. Totally does the job and has all the amenities," noted one camper who found the resort functional if not exceptional.
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities: Miami-area campgrounds often feature recreational facilities families appreciate. "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," wrote one visitor to Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, adding that "there's a water park for the kids, volleyball, many gazebos with grilling areas and more."
Wildlife concerns: Some campsites have unexpected wildlife encounters. "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," warned a camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Davie/Fort Lauderdale KOA offers family-oriented facilities. "It is across the street from a massive park that is perfect for all family members. If you go to the park, make sure you see the burrowing owls," suggested one visitor who found plenty to keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Miami-area RV parks typically have compact sites. At C.B. Smith Park Campground, one RVer noted "we stayed in the back behind the lake and it was very quiet/family friendly. The lake/dock area is beautiful, and there's a massive playground across from the campground in the main park."
Off-season considerations: During summer, many facilities may be limited. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, one RVer observed, "Right now, nothing is open until memorial day weekend. So no beach and no pool. Also half the park is under construction," highlighting the importance of checking seasonal closures before booking.
Connectivity challenges: Holiday Park and other Miami-area campgrounds often have variable cell service. An RVer at Encore Miami Everglades noted "WiFi very expensive and even the guest hotspot at the club house was spotty at best," suggesting travelers should plan alternative connectivity options if needed.
