Cabin accommodations near Miami provide alternatives to traditional tent camping with climate-controlled options. Oleta River State Park offers 14 rustic cabins with shared facilities, while Larry & Penny Thompson Park features small cottages with private bathrooms. Both locations serve as convenient basecamps for exploring south Florida's urban and natural attractions.
What to do
Fishing at local ponds: Larry & Penny Thompson Park has fishing spots in a nearby pond, though campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters. According to one visitor, "We camped here for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area... Fishing was good in the pond nearby. Beware of the feral cats and raccoons though."
Kayaking through mangroves: At Biscayne National Park, visitors can explore coastal ecosystems. One camper notes, "Since we had our own kayak, we were able to skirt the shore and paddle through some of the mangrove forests in Biscayne. This was the highlight of our two short days."
Mountain biking on urban trails: Oleta River State Park Campground maintains an extensive trail system suitable for various skill levels. The park's trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes with natural obstacles and varying terrain.
Swimming in maintained pools: Several Miami-area campgrounds offer swimming facilities. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, "They have a swimming pool open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 5pm," while Quiet Waters Park features water recreation areas with lifeguards during peak season.
What campers like
Urban accessibility with natural surroundings: Paradise Island RV Resort offers convenience to city amenities. A camper shared, "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."
Budget-friendly stays: Southern Comfort RV Resort provides economical options for those exploring the region. One visitor mentioned, "You just can't beat the price! $18 if you have Passport America membership."
Spacious tent camping areas: Quiet Waters Park offers designated tent camping with amenities. A camper described their experience: "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."
Yurt camping options: For Miami, Florida visitors seeking unique accommodations, Quiet Waters Park provides yurts as an alternative to traditional tent or cabin camping, combining comfort with outdoor immersion.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Some parks enforce strict gate closing hours. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, "gates locked at 8pm" according to one reviewer, requiring campers to plan evening activities accordingly.
Limited reservation windows: Larry & Penny Thompson Park has different stay limits based on accommodation type. A camper noted, "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."
Urban noise levels: Southern Comfort RV Resort experiences typical urban sounds. According to one review, "Traffic noise can be loud at certain times of the day," while another mentioned, "Very loud and everyone is drinking and I really wish the gates would have been closed to the public."
Seasonal facility closures: Availability of amenities varies by season and circumstances. One reviewer at Paradise Island reported, "Right now, nothing is open until memorial day weekend. So no beach and no pool. Also half the park is under construction."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for traffic when arriving: When arriving at Southern Comfort RV Resort with children, schedule travel outside rush hours. A camper advised, "If heading south and coming off the FL Turnpike, you have to get over several lanes in a short distance to make the left turn on to Palm Drive."
Pack entertainment for rainy days: Miami's subtropical climate brings frequent afternoon showers. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, families can use indoor options: "a clubhouse with books and puzzles" provides backup activities during inclement weather.
Consider cabin rentals with children: Yurt camping in Miami, Florida offers families more comfort than tents. At Southern Comfort RV Resort, cabin rentals provide stability for families with young children while maintaining an outdoor experience.
Check water recreation schedules: Water activities follow specific schedules at many parks. A visitor at Paradise Island noted, "The pool is nice!" but availability depends on season and maintenance schedules.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV sites at state parks: Some state parks advertised for camping have no RV accommodation. One RVer reported about Oleta River: "Called to inquire pricing and was told they do not have RV sites."
Narrow entrance challenges: Paradise Island requires careful navigation for larger rigs. A reviewer stated, "The entrance is a little hidden and tight but doable. We were towing a 36' travel trailer."
Dumping station limitations: Florida lacks roadside dumping options. One RVer at Paradise Island warned, "Florida has NO dump sites at rest or service areas! 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."
Security considerations: Vehicle security can be a concern at some locations. Store valuables securely and consider additional locks or security devices when parking at urban campgrounds.
