Tent campsites near Weston, Florida offer options across both freshwater and marine environments. The region's subtropical climate creates distinct camping seasons with winter (November-April) providing drier, more comfortable conditions and summer bringing heavy rainfall with potential flooding in primitive sites. Most tent camping areas sit at or near sea level, with elevation changes of less than 10 feet throughout accessible campsites.
What to do
Kayaking at secluded locations: Boca Chita Key in Biscayne National Park offers tent campers boat-in access to pristine waters. "This small island in Biscayne National Park offers a distant view of the Miami skyline, gorgeous aqua water for swimming, snorkeling, boating and fishing," notes reviewer Jean C.
Practice backpacking skills: Seven Mile Camp on the Florida Trail provides an ideal training ground for beginner backpackers. One camper explains, "This is a great little place to practice a hike in backpacking camping trip. It can get really hot out there on the hike in and out. There is about NO shade at the camp so plan for that."
Snorkeling opportunities: Elliott Key — Biscayne National Park provides access to marine ecosystems. Camper Elizabeth G. describes the experience: "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)."
What campers like
Astronomical viewing: The dark skies at remote tent sites provide excellent stargazing opportunities. At Seven Mile Camp, campers report exceptional night sky conditions: "Very great star gazing at night. So dark when all your fire is out," according to Nick C.
Urban-adjacent nature: Quiet Waters Park offers tent camping without lengthy travel from metropolitan areas. As Alex P. notes, "Good location in the middle of urban area, cabins to rent. We've used for daycamp without overnight, but you can do that if you want."
Wildlife encounters: Boca Chita Key — Biscayne National Park provides rich biodiversity viewing. "It is home to many animals and plants with over 500 species of fish. Beautiful coral reefs," reports Brenda K.
What you should know
Water requirements: Most primitive tent sites require bringing all drinking water. At Seven Mile Camp, Nick C. advises, "You need to bring all your water for your night and following day."
Weather challenges: South Florida's climate can significantly impact camping conditions. For Florida Trail campsites, Alex M. warns, "Since this is in South Florida, the winter months are the best time to camp. Any other time of the year is pretty hot and full of mosquitos."
Limited availability: Some tent camping areas have very few sites. Sawgrass Recreation Park has extremely limited capacity with one reviewer noting, "Only 2 sites." Another camper explained the seasonal limitations: "The campground is only open during dry season, which is late winter."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for developed facilities: Quiet Waters Park offers family-friendly amenities close to Weston. Stephen M. simply states it's an "Excellent Park" while Michael adds, "It was a great time went fishing had fire s and explored nature the park office has everything."
Consider island camping: Elliott Key provides a unique family experience with boat access required. Leah W. shares, "We stayed at the group campsite and got hit with a ton of storms. Thankfully there was a shelter nearby where we hung out for most of our trip. It had cover and picnic tables so we could escape from the rain."
Check facility status: Campsite availability can change seasonally or due to maintenance. At Quiet Waters Park, recent visitors reported changes in operation with one noting, "Closed till further notice."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Weston lack RV accommodations. Sawgrass Recreation Park offers primitive sites but access can be problematic. One camper warns, "Because of the rain, getting to and from the campsites by car may be challenging, and the area could be muddy."
Consider day use: While overnight RV camping is limited, some parks permit day use. Pavel T. describes Frog Hammock as a "nice tucked away oasis" and "a beautiful campground. Nice place to get away from everything," making it worth visiting even without overnight stays.
Security deposits: Some locations require significant deposits. At Sawgrass Recreation Park, a reviewer mentioned, "A $200 deposit is also pending, subject to a damage inspection of the campsite."
