Glamping experiences near West Palm Beach, Florida blend outdoor adventure with comfort in south Florida's subtropical climate. The region sits at a low elevation with an average of 62 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush surroundings with wetland ecosystems. Many glamping locations maintain operation year-round due to the mild winter temperatures, though summer humidity levels typically exceed 80% from June through September.
What to do
Fishing access: Phipps Park Campground offers direct water access with designated fishing areas. The park features a fishing pier and boat launch areas built along innovative stormwater catchment ponds. According to one visitor at Phipps Park Campground, "We were able to be right on the water, very nice. Most sites nice with good space. Had both concrete pads and gravel sites."
Safari wildlife viewing: Located adjacent to a drive-through animal safari, visitors can observe over 1,000 animals from a unique perspective. "This campground sits just outside of the only drive through animal safari with over 1,000 different types of animals, is great for families to enjoy," notes a reviewer at West Palm Beach-Lion Country Safari KOA.
Water sports: Multiple locations offer direct water access for kayaking and paddle boarding. "Great biking, easy access to boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Close to beaches and shopping so there's something for everybody to do," writes a camper about their experience at Phipps Park.
What campers like
Unique wildlife sounds: The proximity to exotic animals creates an unusual camping soundtrack. A visitor at Lion Country Safari KOA shared, "Very nice KOA, clean well presented, friendly staff. The lions waking you up in the morning is really pretty cool."
Nature immersion: Many sites feature waterside locations with abundant birdlife. "Adorable, enchanting island camping amongst water lilies, turtles, white ibis', blue heron and friendly folks," describes one camper about their stay at Phipps Park Campground.
Convenient locations: Several glamping sites offer proximity to urban amenities while maintaining natural settings. A reviewer at Paradise Island RV Resort noted, "Campground in the city, great guest services, friendly staff. Near grocery store, and everything! Full hookup sites, spots are big and concrete roads."
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Summer months bring increased mosquito populations at some locations. One camper at Lion Country Safari KOA reported, "When we were pulling in we noticed a train of 7-8 RV's and trailers leaving. Didn't think much of it. That's when we noticed that it was literally swarming with mosquitos."
Platform tent conditions: Some locations offer permanent platform tents with varying levels of maintenance. A reviewer at Quiet Waters Park shared, "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."
Noise factors: Proximity to highways or wildlife can impact sleep quality. "The campground is pretty tight & the sites aren't very attractive but being next to the safari is awesome! You can hear the lions loud & clear!" noted a visitor about Lion Country Safari KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Safari discounts: Special pricing available for campers visiting adjacent attractions. "Discount tickets to Lion Country Safari which is next to campground," mentioned a reviewer at Lion Country Safari KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning time for optimal animal activity. One camper noted, "The rabbits were having fun playing in the primitive camping area every evening and early morning hours," regarding their stay at Lion Country Safari KOA.
Security considerations: Some locations implement nighttime security measures. "The campground is gated during evening hours with the gate closing at 10:00 pm, so you will need to get a gate key card with a $20.00 deposit which will be refunded when you turn the key back at the end of your stay," explained a visitor at Barlows Fish and RV Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Various campgrounds offer different pad types with implications for setup. "Sites were decent sized. Some were gravel, most weren't," shared a reviewer about Lion Country Safari KOA.
Hookup availability: Full hookup access varies by location and site type. A camper at Palm Beach County Park South Bay RV Campground reported, "Great place to stay. Would stay here again. Full hookups. Spots are spacious!!!"
Dump station accessibility: Some locations have challenging dump station positioning. "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," warned an RVer about Paradise Island RV Resort.
