South Miami sits at the northern edge of Everglades National Park, with most camping areas sitting less than 20 feet above sea level. The region's low elevation contributes to seasonal flooding in dispersed camping areas, particularly during the rainy summer months. Winter camping can book up 3-6 months in advance at established campgrounds, particularly from December through March.
What to do
Kayaking and wildlife viewing: At Long Pine Key Campground, visitors have multiple paddling options on nearby waterways. "My wife and I spent 4 days at Long Pine Key Campground in December. The weather was great. Plenty to see and do in the Everglades National Park (hiking, kayaking, cycling, bird watching, etc)," notes Kevin A.
Mini-golf and swimming: Family activities abound at Encore Miami Everglades with recreational options on-site. "They have a really nice big pool, shuffleboard, putt putt golf, arcade and walking trail. It's off the beaten path but worth the drive," shares Jennifer A.
Boat access camping: For those with watercraft, Boca Chita Key offers a unique camping experience with limited facilities. "This small island in Biscayne National Park offers a distant view of the Miami skyline, gorgeous aqua water for swimming, snorkeling, boating and fishing. A small lighthouse stands above the protected harbor," reports Jean C.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of Larry & Penny Thompson Park. "The RV's are assigned space around several pods. Each pod has its own bathhouse with laundry facilities. There are pull through spots for the big motorhomes and spots reserved for the handicapped. The bathhouses for the RV's were in good shape and well maintained," writes Tod H.
Budget-friendly options: Some of the best places to camp near South Miami offer good value despite the generally high cost of Florida camping. "Tent sites in open field setup with trees. I'm a tent camper and loved this area. Overall great value with a swimming pool and washer/dryers. Grounds mostly quiet with expected weekenders," explains Anjuli W. about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Park amenities: Many campers appreciate additional recreational features at Topeekeegee Yugnee 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," shares Bernadette P.
What you should know
Security concerns: Some campgrounds in the Miami area have reported theft issues. At Larry & Penny Thompson Park, one camper warned: "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!"
Tent camping restrictions: Some parks limit tent camping duration. "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," noted sandra R. at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Water quality issues: Occasionally campgrounds experience water system problems. At Southern Comfort RV Resort, they offer basic amenities but sometimes struggle with maintenance. "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," reports rob K.
Tips for camping with families
Tent sites with shade: For family tent camping near South Miami, choose sites with tree cover. "The tent area is off to one side and well shaded by mature trees. It's an area rather than sites. You pick your spot, put up a tent and place a large numbered sign by your area and you've got your spot," explains Tod H. about Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Wildlife education: Prepare kids for wildlife encounters. "There are gators everywhere, as you can see in the pictures, video. Also, this is a habitat for the Florida Panther. So bring a friend! and make your presence known, you don't want to startle any of these big beasts," warns dan N. about camping at Long Pine Key.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer swimming facilities during the hot months. "Myself, my husband, and our 2 year old son recently started camping as a family. We originally chose Miami Everglades RV Resort as a site to test our new equipment. It is close to home, so we figured if something went wrong, we'd just pack up and come home," shares Aly E.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose RV sites carefully at Topeekeegee Yugnee Park. "The sites were level concrete pads. We were pleasantly surprised by this park. Bathrooms air conditioned and clean as were the showers," says Bernadette P.
Noise considerations: Some of the best places to camp near South Miami have train tracks or highways nearby. "Great park friendly staff. Great amenities. There are not many downsides two that I want to discuss. 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," notes Darren F.
Utility reliability: Water and electric service can be inconsistent at some parks. "On several occasions our water went out (in the middle of a shower and another time during dinner prep, and yet again while doing laundry!) Cable also went out several times. WiFi very expensive and even the guest hotspot at the club house was spotty at best," warns Nancy about Encore Miami Everglades.
