Camping spots near Sunrise, Florida cluster primarily within urban parks rather than wilderness settings. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity from May through September, while winter months bring more comfortable temperatures averaging in the 70s. During hurricane season, campground availability often fluctuates as sites may temporarily close for storm preparation or cleanup.
What to do
Observe wildlife at Markham Park: This 669-acre park includes dedicated wildlife viewing areas where campers regularly spot turtles and various bird species. One visitor noted, "If you've got a jet ski you can easily get on and off right there. There are gators in the water which is much deeper than one would think" at Markham Park Campground.
Visit the observatory: Saturday evenings offer unique stargazing opportunities at Markham Park's observatory facility. A camper mentioned the park "has a nice observatory on saturday nights to visit," making it an educational evening activity not commonly found at other camping areas.
Water activities at multiple parks: Several campgrounds feature lakes for boating, fishing, and swimming. At C.B. Smith Park Campground, "The lake/dock area is beautiful, and there's a massive playground across from the campground in the main park," according to one visitor who stayed for five months.
What campers like
Mature tree canopy: The rare natural shade at Easterlin Park Campground provides relief from Florida sun. A camper described it as "a true escape from the hustle and bustle of South Florida life" and "calm and serene park with plenty of activities to enjoy with friends and family."
Private sites despite urban setting: Despite their location in developed areas, some campgrounds offer surprisingly secluded sites. At Topeekeegee Yugnee Park Campground, one camper praised "The sites were level concrete pads, bathrooms air conditioned and clean as were the showers. Park is beautiful."
Local recreational facilities: Many campers appreciate the variety of built amenities. One noted that TY Park "has easy access to I-95 and is mostly good for locals to bring children for a day of fun in the sun!" while another mentioned, "Great Park with big lake. Had good power, good water pressure and cable but didn't use it."
What you should know
Security measures vary: Most county parks implement security gates with access codes. At TY Park, "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. Other downside is park closes at 8, you can still enter through the exit gate until midnight."
Site limitations: Space constraints affect most campgrounds. At Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA, a camper noted "Down side/ 1: all the sites are so close together 2: the WI-FI is the worst of any KOA I have been to 3: other than the pool no other activities or areas for activities."
Camping experience varies by season: Winter brings increased demand and higher prices, while summer offers more availability but challenging weather. One camper at Sawgrass Recreation Park advised "Because of the rain, getting to and from the campsites by car may be challenging, and the area could be muddy."
Tips for camping with families
Find parks with dedicated kid amenities: Select locations with water features and playgrounds. At C.B. Smith Park, a visitor reported "there's a massive playground across from the campground in the main park. My grandson loved looking at and feeding the ducks and turtles."
Consider parks with educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programs or wildlife viewing. At Markham Park, "The section is designated 'primitive' but it does have full single person male & female restrooms, as well as electricity and water. It has plenty of picnic tables, a path to the lake, and woods to explore via trails."
Plan for noise factors: Highway and railway noise can disrupt sleep for light sleepers, especially children. One camper at Paradise Island RV Resort noted "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Look for pull-through sites when possible. One RVer reported "the roads getting in the RV park are good but watch out for branches with big units outside the park to the north" at TY Park.
Check hookup positions: Some sites have awkwardly positioned utilities. At Yacht Haven Park, one camper had difficulty because "they had given us a pull in site for a bus, and we were unable to hook up to sewer, and had to run our electric cable and water hose under the camper."
Verify big rig accessibility: Many parks claim to accommodate large RVs but have challenging access. A visitor noted Markham Park requires you "Bring your A GAME as this campground road is very tight with lots of turns."
