Palm Beach County offers distinctive glamping accommodations beyond traditional camping. The region features subtropical climate conditions with average winter temperatures around 75°F and summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Camping enthusiasts can access both inland water features and Atlantic coastal environments within relatively short distances.
What to do
Water recreation access: At Phipps Park Campground, visitors can enjoy kayaking, boating, and paddleboarding with convenient launch points. "Great biking, easy access to boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Close to beaches and shopping so there's something for everybody to do," notes Patricia Pettersen C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA provides unique animal encounters. "This campground sits just outside of the only drive through animal safari with over 1,000 different types of animals, is great for families to enjoy," writes Burton M. The safari park offers discounted tickets to campers.
Biking trails: Several parks maintain dedicated cycling paths. A reviewer at Quiet Waters Park mentions, "We brought our kayaks and played around. Had a lot of space to walk our dogs. It was really a great time!" The paved trails accommodate cyclists of varying skill levels.
What campers like
Unique wake-up calls: Many glamping spots in Palm Beach County feature distinctive morning sounds. "The lions waking you up in the morning is really pretty cool," states Jan H. about Lion Country Safari KOA. "We are used to hearing birds and frogs when we camp, but here it is lions...and other noises I was not able to identify."
Waterfront sites: Paradise Island RV Resort offers water-adjacent camping despite urban surroundings. "This is a campground in the middle of the city, so don't expect a lot of quiet, as this is how it is in a city. We spent 14 months here sheltering from Covid, and it was extremely convenient to all of the Fort Lauderdale area," shares Richard H.
Natural wildlife viewing: The region's parks feature abundant local wildlife. Jeff P. from Phipps Park reports, "We stayed in one of the electrical sights along the river. We made use of the fire pit and enjoyed the sunset." Many sites provide direct access to natural areas with birdwatching opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter represents peak season with more comfortable temperatures. "Weather great to explore park in late Winter," notes Jeffrey W. about camping at Lion Country Safari KOA. Summer brings higher temperatures, humidity, and increased insect activity.
Mosquito preparation: Insect repellent remains essential for glamping in Palm Beach County. One camper at South Bay RV Campground advises, "Great place to stay. Would stay here again. Boat dock on site. Full hookups. Spots are spacious!!!" Bug preparation remains necessary despite spacious accommodations.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during winter months. Paradise Island RV Resort often accommodates overflow camping: "3 campers and two RVs crammed into overflow. NO full hookups as indicated over the phone," warns Michael J. Book well in advance for prime spots during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Quiet Waters Park offers family-friendly activities beyond camping. "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," explains Alex P. about the park's versatility for families.
Safety considerations: Most glamping facilities maintain gated entry during evening hours. According to Burton M. at Lion Country Safari KOA, "The campground is gated during evening hours with the gate closing at 10:00 pm, so you will need to get a gate key card with a $20.00 deposit which will be refunded when you turn the key back at the end of your stay."
Wildlife education: Incorporate learning opportunities about local fauna. "We tent camped here. Site small and sandy but location is the key to this KOA. Right next to Lion Country Safari," states Jeffrey W., highlighting educational benefits for children camping near wildlife facilities.
Tips from RVers
Urban convenience: Sunsport Gardens Family Naturist Resort provides access to necessities while maintaining natural settings. "Rustic. Freedom. Old timers. Families. AANR. Pool is heated comfortably year round. Sauna. Hot tub restaurant fitness laundry pool table clubhouse," explains Sandra C. about available amenities.
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend requesting waterfront sites when available. "We were able to be right on the water, very nice," shares Liz M. about Phipps Park. "Most sites nice with good space. Had both concrete pads and gravel sites. Concrete were the nicest."
Weather preparedness: Hurricane season affects camping plans from June through November. "The campground staff was great: while going from 15% to 100% occupancy in 24 hours, they still kept up the cleanliness support, and friendliness. It was a great experience in a trying time like evacuating for a hurricane," recounts William C. about seeking shelter at Lion Country Safari KOA.
