Glamping options near Palmetto Bay, Florida provide access to both urban and natural environments with temperatures rarely falling below 60°F in winter. Many sites maintain year-round availability though some facilities close seasonally for maintenance. Most campgrounds near Palmetto Bay require advance reservations with many allowing stays up to 30 days for RVs but limiting tent camping to shorter periods.
What to do
Kayaking adventures: Multiple waterways surround the Palmetto Bay area with Key Largo offering excellent paddling opportunities. At Riptide RV Resort, visitors can launch directly from the property. "Nice pavilion down at water, nice little beach, dock, restrooms, showers and laundry," reports Jayne W.
Mountain biking trails: Oleta River State Park Campground features extensive trail networks just 30 minutes from downtown Miami. "It boasts 15-miles of trails in more than 1,000 acres! You can bike, snorkel, paddle, run, picnic, rent cabins, primitive camp, and even get married," states L O. Some trails may close after heavy rains.
Wildlife viewing: Zoo Miami sits adjacent to some campgrounds, offering educational day trips. "This is a very nice campground which is part of the Miami-Dade County park system," reports a visitor. Sites offer both camping comfort and easy wildlife access.
What campers like
Budget-friendly base camp: Many glamping spots near Palmetto Bay serve as affordable hubs for exploring both Miami and the Everglades. At Southern Comfort RV Resort, campers appreciate the value. "We stayed for a week. Not many frills, certainly not a resort and bathroom frequently ran out of TP, but as a relatively affordable base of vacation operations it was good. Close to the Keys, Everglades, Biscayne and shopping," notes Rob K.
Urban convenience: Unlike remote wilderness camping, Palmetto Bay glamping offers proximity to urban amenities. Paradise Island RV Resort provides city benefits while camping. "Campground in the city, great guest services, friendly staff. Near grocery store, and everything! Full hookup sites, spots are big and concrete roads," explains Milagros B.
Family water activities: Several sites maintain swimming facilities for kids. At Quiet Waters Park, water activities remain the main attraction. "It was a great time went fishing had fire s and explored nature the park office has everything," shares Michael, highlighting the water-based recreation options.
What you should know
Security concerns: Some campgrounds report theft issues. "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. This state park is NOT secure!" warns Marta L. Always secure valuables and choose sites with good lighting.
Seasonal closures: Facilities often close for maintenance or during off-seasons. One camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park noted during Covid: "Right now, nothing is open until memorial day weekend. So no beach and no pool. Also half the park is under construction."
Stay limits vary: Tent campers face stricter time limits than RVers at most locations. "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," reports Sandra R.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for holidays: Glamping accommodations fill quickly during winter and school breaks. Brittany S. shares a cautionary tale: "We inquired about reserving one of their cabins for a week long stay over Thanksgiving. We let them know that we would have 2 adults and 3 children."
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Suburban settings still bring wildlife visitors. "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," warns Finn H.
Bring swim gear year-round: Most parks maintain swimming areas that operate throughout winter months. Ashley J. notes about her December visit: "It was on the water, had a grill, electricity, fire pit, tent, running water and was pet friendly. We brought our kayaks and played around."
Tips from RVers
Watch entry angles: Many glamping locations near Palmetto Bay have tight entrances. "The entrance is a little hidden and tight but doable. We were towing a 36' travel trailer," advises Mike M. about navigating into Southern Comfort RV Resort.
Expect tight parking: Urban RV sites maximize space but limit maneuvering room. Richard H. reports: "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."
Plan dump strategy: Waste facilities can be limited in the area. One camper warns: "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!"
