South Miami camping options span beyond traditional sites with cabins available at several locations. The area's subtropical climate averages 76°F year-round with high humidity, particularly during summer months. Tent and RV campers often contend with afternoon thunderstorms between May and October when rainfall averages 7-9 inches monthly.
What to do
Wildlife viewing near mangroves: At Elliott Key — Biscayne National Park, access to water activities dominates the experience. "When we went, we did a lot of kayaking. We saw a ton of wildlife, beautiful waters, and views. Unfortunately, there's a TON of liter (not the park's fault, just dirty people who don't care about the environment)," notes Elizabeth G. The park requires boat access to reach camping areas.
Pool access for cooling off: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as relief from summer heat. At C.B. Smith Park Campground, "The park is very well maintained. The lake/dock area is beautiful, and there's a massive playground across from the campground in the main park," according to Kelsey P., who stayed for 5 months.
Biking paths for daily exercise: Multiple parks feature paved trails suitable for cyclists. "There is a walking/Biking path around the campground perimeter which is actively used," mentions Laurie H. about Miami Everglades RV Resort. This matches well with campers seeking daily exercise beyond their campsite.
What campers like
Security features: Many campers appreciate the safety measures at local campgrounds. "Lots of trees scattered but ok shade. Gates locked at 8pm," reports Paul about Larry & Penny Thompson Park, highlighting the secure environment many visitors prioritize.
Clean facilities: Topeekeegee Yugnee Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "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," writes Bernadette P. about this dog friendly campground near South Miami.
Budget-friendly options: For cost-conscious travelers, certain parks offer excellent value. "At $17/night for a tent site, we got wifi, access to laundry, great showers, and a perfectly adequate site. We weren't spending much time at the actual campground, so we didn't mind that it wasn't the most scenic place," explains SwitchbackKids about their stay at Larry & Penny Thompson Park.
What you should know
Site layouts and privacy concerns: Many South Miami area campgrounds feature closely spaced sites. At Davie / Fort Lauderdale KOA, one camper notes, "I'll start off by saying it's a typical KOA - tightly crammed and sites very close together." This layout affects privacy levels throughout most pet-friendly campgrounds near South Miami.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience railway disruptions. "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," warns Darren F. about Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, informing light sleepers to prepare accordingly.
Gate closure timing: Multiple campgrounds restrict nighttime access. At C.B. Smith Park, gates close early, while TY Park has specific entry protocols after hours. "Park closes at 8, you can still enter through the exit gate until midnight and then have to call security to get in/out," explains a visitor, highlighting planning needs for evening activities.
Tips for camping with families
Water park accessibility: Families benefit from nearby water recreation options. "This park is city owned and operated Park/Campground. This fact is significant. It is very pretty with lots of mature shade trees," notes Tod H. about Larry & Penny Thompson Park, adding "The pool is clean and guarded by life guards."
Playground proximity: When camping with children, accessible play areas add value. At Southern Comfort RV Resort, "There is a bar/Tiki Hut on premise and a big swimming pool open year round. This is a pet friendly park but with a breed and size restriction, so call ahead if you have Fido with you," advises Thom T.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for local wildlife interactions at tent sites. "Beware of the feral cats and raccoons though. We spent an entire night fending them off with a slingshot and they didn't bother us again," warns Finn H. about his Larry & Penny Thompson Park experience, suggesting proper food storage is essential when camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: RV drivers should note entrance difficulties at some campgrounds. "The entrance is a little hidden and tight but doable. We were towing a 36' travel trailer," reports Mike M. about Southern Comfort RV Resort, highlighting the need for careful route planning.
Hookup availability: Most parks offer full hookups but with varying quality. "Site pretty level good hookups," notes Paul about Larry & Penny Thompson Park, while acknowledging "No WiFi due to construction whilst we were there. Verizon data slow even with booster."
Space limitations for larger rigs: Many RV campers mention tight parking situations. "Very cozy place, planty of shades, little swimming pool and friendly people all around," reports Ioan P., noting Southern Comfort's value at "$18 if you have Passport America membership," but mentioning "No paver here everything is on dirt."
