Larry & Penny Thompson Park offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options with full hookups in a location adjacent to Zoo Miami. The park has 270 acres of pine rockland ecosystem, which is among the most endangered habitats in Florida. The campground maintains temperature averages of 76-83°F during summer months and 59-75°F in winter, making it accessible year-round for visitors seeking pet-friendly camping accommodations.
What to do
Water activities at nearby lakes: Markham Park Campground offers easy access to water recreation. "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," notes Jeffrey W.
Observatory visits on weekends: Markham Park features special night sky viewing opportunities. "For south florida, its about as good as it gets. Also has a nice observatory on saturday nights to visit," explains Robert D. The observatory provides a unique activity not commonly found at other campgrounds in the region.
Fruit stand excursions: When staying at Encore Miami Everglades, consider a short drive to local produce vendors. "Close to Miami Everglades is a fruit stand called Robert Is Here. Don't miss it!" recommends Jennifer A. This makes for a perfect day trip to sample local tropical fruits and support local agriculture.
What campers like
Walking trails and recreational facilities: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground offers extensive outdoor space. "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," describes Mark B.
Pickleball tournaments and social activities: Many Miami area campgrounds organize recreational events. As Laurie H. describes at Encore Miami Everglades, "There was a pickle ball tournament going on which looked like fun. The pool looked nicely appointed and clean, although, we did not use it."
Convenient location for attractions: C.B. Smith Park Campground provides an ideal base for exploring the region. "Nice local park. Very safe. Ok fishing. Great place to relax," mentions A.D., highlighting how these campgrounds serve as convenient staging areas for further exploration of south Florida's attractions.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have experienced water system issues. At Encore Miami Everglades, one camper reported: "Our stay at Encore Miami Campground was unfortunately impacted by a serious and unannounced issue. We were only informed upon arrival that the campground's well water contained fecal matter and was a potential source of E. coli."
Varying bathroom conditions: Facilities can differ significantly between parks and camping sections. At Markham Park, a camper noted: "The bathhouses for the RV's were in good shape and well maintained. The bathhouse for the tenters not so much."
Train noise at select locations: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park has occasional train disruptions. "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," warns Darren F. Consider packing earplugs if you're a light sleeper.
Tips for camping with families
Water park amenities: Several parks offer water recreation specifically designed for children. "This is city owned and operated Park/Campground. This fact is significant. It is very pretty with lots of mature shade trees... The pool is clean and guarded by life guards," mentions Tod H. about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Test equipment on short trips: Honey's Place and other smaller sites near Miami provide good options for equipment trials. One family shared: "Myself, my husband, and our 2 year old son recently started camping as a family. We originally chose Miami Everglades RV Resort as a site to test our new equipment. It is close to home, so we figured if something went wrong, we'd just pack up and come home."
Burrowing owl viewing: When camping with kids, look for unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "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," suggests Carlton A. about the Davie/Fort Lauderdale KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At busy campgrounds, ask for flexibility in choosing your spot. "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," explains Aly E. about her experience at Encore Miami Everglades.
Waterfront positioning: Yacht Haven Park & Marina offers unique canal sites. "If you camp on the canal, chances are you will be right next to some amazing yachts! 7 minutes to Ft Lauderdale Beach and 7 minutes the other way to Seminole Hard Rock Casino Hollywood!" shares Donna S. This provides a distinctive setting for RV camping not found at most inland parks.
Security measures: Pay attention to park security protocols when selecting pet-friendly camping near Miami. "We were greeted by an armed security guard who showed us on a map where site 110 was," notes Ron M. about Yacht Haven Park & Marina, indicating enhanced security measures at some facilities.
