Tent campsites near Palmetto Bay, Florida require careful preparation due to limited freshwater and accessibility challenges. Most camping options in this region demand water transportation, with paddle times ranging from 3-4 hours to remote chickee platforms. The nearby Everglades and Biscayne National Parks feature camping sites that can only be accessed by boat, requiring backcountry permits and advance planning.
What to do
Kayaking through mangroves: Pearl Bay Chickee features a moderate paddle through winding mangroves before reaching the platform. "This is a beautiful Chickee! Brand new and ADA certified as much as a platform over water can be! Both platforms have ladders and the eastern platform has small steps down towards the water level for those with limited mobility," notes a visitor to Pearl Bay Chickee.
Fishing from platforms: Elevated wooden platforms provide excellent fishing opportunities directly from your campsite. At Shark Point Chickee, campers report remarkable wildlife viewing. "I saw sharks, dolphins, alligators, and different type of fish. Be prepared!" warns one paddler who made the 3-4 hour journey.
Stargazing: The remote locations offer exceptional night sky viewing when weather permits. "Wind kept bugs blown away," notes one camper at Shark Point Chickee, highlighting how evening conditions can vary dramatically based on weather patterns.
What campers like
Solitude and isolation: Many chickee platforms accommodate only small groups, creating a true wilderness experience. "Lane Bay is a great site if you can get it! Unlike other chickees, it is a single platform, so your group will be the only ones out there," reports one visitor to the Everglades backcountry.
Wildlife encounters: Marine and bird life regularly visit the camping platforms. At Hells Bay Chickee, one camper reports, "A few dolphins swam by the Chickee and on the paddle we saw sharks, seabirds, and fish."
Sunrise and sunset views: The unobstructed water views create dramatic lighting conditions. "Enjoyed an awesome sunset and sunrise from the chickee. Stars were great but hard to enjoy because as soon as the sun goes down the bugs SWARM," explains an Emily G. who camped at Hells Bay.
What you should know
Platform conditions vary significantly: The construction and maintenance of chickee platforms differ across sites. A recent visitor to Hells Bay Chickee noted infrastructure concerns: "The porta-potty doesn't lock and someone put a string on it to hold it shut. There are no ladders like some of the new chickees."
Pack all supplies: No drinking water exists at most sites. "There is no electricity, no freshwater, and minimal to no cell service," warns a camper at Pearl Bay Chickee.
Weather changes rapidly: Wind conditions can shift dramatically, affecting both comfort and safety. "Winds can change drastically and quickly, so make sure to tie of your watercraft really well; we went from flat calm to 25knots in just 5 minutes," reports a camper at Hells Bay Chickee.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some platforms are more family-friendly than others. "This is a great one nighter, or a stop on the way to further sites like Hells Bay of Lane Bay chickee. It is semi-protected so one still gets a decent breeze," notes a visitor to Pearl Bay Chickee about its accessibility for first-time paddlers.
Bring indoor activities: Evening mosquito swarms often force everyone into tents after sunset. "Pack some cards or something to do in the tent after sunset before bed," advises an Emily G. who camped at Hells Bay.
Consider urban alternatives: For families seeking more amenities, Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach offers developed camping with facilities. "My husband and I rented a campground flat in December. It was on the water, had a grill, electricity, fire pit, tent, running water and was pet friendly," reports Ashley J.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Palmetto Bay: Most camping in this area focuses on boat-accessible tent sites. For RVers, Boca Chita Key offers a compromise: "This small island in Biscayne National Park offers a distant view of the Miami skyline, gorgeous aqua water for swimming, snorkeling, boating and fishing."
Day trips from RV parks: Consider making day trips to Biscayne National Park while staying at developed campgrounds farther north. "There are picnic tables and grills available," notes a camper about Boca Chita Key, making it suitable for extended day visits from mainland RV parks.
