Cabin camping near South Miami, Florida provides an alternative to tent camping with protection from the area's frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Cabins are situated at several parks within 30-45 minutes of downtown Miami, where the subtropical climate maintains warm temperatures year-round with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 60°F. Most sites experience high humidity levels throughout the year, particularly from June through September during the rainy season.
What to do
Kayaking at mangrove trails: Oleta River State Park offers cabin accommodations with excellent paddling opportunities. "This oasis is so close to major urban centers, but it's true. 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," notes one visitor to Oleta River State Park Campground.
Boat access accommodations: Kings Kamp RV Park provides waterfront cabins with direct boat access. "Kings Kamp is a unique property that will work for all visitors. Personally, I camped in a tent, but they also have RV spots and on-site cabins. It actually has a small marina, so bring the boat or kayak and launch right there," explains a camper at Kings Kamp RV Park.
National park access: Book cabin accommodations as a base for exploring nearby natural areas. One visitor explains, "We stayed 3 nights at John Pennekamp and it was really nice. Our site #27 was perfect for our little RV. The camp was clean and it had plenty to keep us busy. We went to Bahia Honda, Key West, veteran memorial park (great little clear and beautiful beach)."
What campers like
Affordability compared to hotels: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate cabin options as alternatives to Miami hotels. A camper at Larry & Penny Thompson Park mentions, "We camped here for 6 nights as a home base while fishing the area. I would say 17 bucks a night is a little pricey for a tent site but not outrageous. The tent sites were well shaded. Bathrooms were clean and staff was friendly."
Access to swimming facilities: Many cabin sites include swimming amenities. "This place is a city owned and operated Park/Campground. The pool is clean and guarded by life guards. There is a lounge where you have access to WiFi and plugs to charge your phones," notes one guest at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Proximity to attractions: Visitors value cabin locations that balance nature with access to urban amenities. A traveler at Miami Everglades RV Resort shares, "We stayed here for two days on our way North from the Keys. It is a great family style campground close to Miami, Key Biscayne, and the Everglades National Forest. We used this as our landing area to enjoy the local beaches, amenities, and natural sites."
What you should know
Varying levels of maintenance: Property upkeep varies significantly between cabin sites. "Disappointed is the best word to describe this place. The campground has so many great things to offer however the people working here completely ruin the experience. The pictures are very misleading. The site is not being kept up," reports one visitor about Encore Miami Everglades.
Reservation limitations: Some properties enforce strict stay duration rules. A camper explains, "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. They do provide a list of other local campgrounds you can move to, though."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some cabin sites. "This is city owned and operated Park/Campground. Near a major street, so it can get noisy - and on weekends you can hear the music from a local bar," mentions a guest at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
Tips for camping with families
Scout cabin sites beforehand: Some campgrounds offer viewings before booking. One visitor to Southern Comfort RV Resort shares, "Before our stay my husband called to check on availability. We were told that we would be able to view the sites to see which one we would prefer."
Pack entertainment for rainy afternoons: South Florida's frequent summer thunderstorms require indoor activities. "Miami Everglades RV Resort is in the Miami area but it doesn't feel like Miami at all. They have a really nice big pool, shuffleboard, putt putt golf, arcade and walking trail," notes one family.
Check pet policies: Rules vary between cabin accommodations. A camper reports, "This is a pet friendly park but with a breed and size restriction, so call ahead if you have Fido with you."
Tips from RVers
Security considerations: Take standard precautions at cabin sites. A visitor to The Boardwalk RV And Mobile Home Resort advises, "We stayed here about 4 days on our way down to the Keys. This park is mostly quiet but full of sketchy people. We saw our neighbors selling illegal firearms to a young kid in his front yard. Lock your stuff up if you're going to leave anything outside. The lots are huge and clean."
Check cabin furnishing details: Confirm amenities before arrival. "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. Much to our surprise, this site is extremely nice!" shares a first-time visitor.
Avoid peak season for better rates: Winter months bring higher prices and limited availability for cabin stays. A guest mentions, "We had high hopes for this campground, as it is a few miles west of our house, and could be a convenient layover when traveling through town. They were able to accommodate us for the night for the low price of $120, including tax and a $25 amenity fee."
