Camping areas near Miramar provide access to South Florida's diverse subtropical ecosystem where average summer temperatures range from 75-95°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The region maintains relatively flat terrain with small lakes and canal systems connecting many campgrounds. Winter camping is typically dry and mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 60°F at night, creating comfortable conditions for tent campers and RV enthusiasts alike.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Markham Park Campground offers extensive mountain biking trails that wind through the park's natural areas. As one reviewer notes, "Lots of room to roam here. Great mountain bike trails, lakes, woods, disc golf, flora and fauna."
Water activities: C.B. Smith Park Campground features a beautiful lake with water access. A camper shared, "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."
Renaissance festivals and events: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park hosts seasonal events throughout the year. "We were pleasantly surprised by this park. 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."
Observatory visits: Markham Park Campground features an on-site observatory open on Saturday nights. According to a camper, "For south florida, its about as good as it gets. Also has a nice observatory on saturday nights to visit."
Shooting range access: Markham Park includes a large outdoor shooting range for target practice. A visitor mentioned, "During the day, there is noise pollution due to jet skis on the water, and the gun range located across the path. However, at night (when it really matters) it is completely silent except for local wildlife."
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground offers well-designed sites for larger rigs. "Stayed here over a holiday weekend and enjoyed it, roads getting in the RV park are good but watch out for branches with big units outside the park to the north... slot was spacey and the pool seemed nice."
Recent renovations: Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA has undergone significant improvements. A recent visitor wrote, "I went there this week and I was amazed at the transformation. It is beautiful, clean and very welcoming. Each site has new outdoor furniture and is clean. These sites are just waiting for you to pull in."
Private waterfront camping: Yacht Haven Park & Marina offers sites directly on the water. "The best part about the park is backing your RV up to the docks on the river and seeing all the boats go by at night."
Secure camping environment: Many campgrounds in the area prioritize security. A camper at Topeekeegee Yugnee Park noted, "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."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer months (May-September) bring high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Plan outdoor activities for mornings and be prepared for rain.
Train noise impacts: Paradise Island RV Resort and other urban campgrounds may experience noise from nearby transportation. One camper at Topeekeegee Yugnee Park mentioned, "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."
Limited availability during winter: The region experiences high demand during winter months (November-March) when northern visitors ("snowbirds") arrive. A camper at Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA observed, "Very friendly staff. This palce gets really crowded during winter season."
Park closure times: Some parks have restricted entry hours. At Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, "park closes at 8, you can still enter through the exit gate until midnight and then have to call security to get in/out."
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA provides family-friendly amenities nearby. A visitor mentioned, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks in the area offer chances to observe local animals. One camper at Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA shared, "It had tropical flowers and plants and was right across from the pound. My grandson loved looking at and feeding the ducks and turtles."
Heat safety measures: During summer months, schedule outdoor activities before 11am or after 4pm to avoid peak heat. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Historical exploration: The area contains interesting historical remnants. A visitor to Markham Park noted, "There are some pretty interesting pieces of history leftover behind the camping field."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At C.B. Smith Park, consider your preferences for noise levels. "The basketball court on the other side of the fence can be a little loud until about 11pm but I'm a night guy so it didn't bother me. Other than that it's quiet, clean and close to many restaurants and stores."
Low clearance awareness: Watch for tree branches when navigating to some parks. A visitor to Topeekeegee Yugnee Park advised, "roads getting in the RV park are good but watch out for branches with big units outside the park to the north."
Variable site spacing: Yacht Haven Park & Marina and other parks may have tight spacing between sites. "The process to make our reservation took 5 phone calls... turns out we should have been a little more concerned with the electric service, as they had given us a pull in site for a bus, and we were unable to hook up to sewer."
Water pressure challenges: Some parks experience inconsistent utilities. A camper at Yacht Haven Park mentioned, "Very tight parking and roads. The water pressure was terrible."