Contrary to what most vacationers believe, Florida’s best camping spots aren’t always beachfront properties with ocean views. Larry and Penny Thompson Park Campground, tucked away in Miami-Dade County, proves this theory with its 240 shaded sites situated beside Zoo Miami‘s exotic menagerie. Campers fall asleep to distant lion roars while stationed under mature mango trees, yet somehow this gem remains off the typical tourist’s radar. What keeps this affordable paradise so mysteriously uncrowded despite its prime location?
A Hidden Oasis Near Zoo Miami
Situated in the heart of Miami-Dade County, the Larry and Penny Thompson Park Campground offers a unique Florida experience where campers can wake up to the distant sounds of exotic animals from neighboring Zoo Miami. This hidden gem, accessible via US-1 or the Florida Turnpike, combines the tranquility of nature with convenient proximity to urban adventures, making it an ideal basecamp for freedom-seeking travelers investigating South Florida.
The campground boasts 240 well-shaded sites beneath a canopy of trees, including fragrant mangos, with full RV hookups providing electricity, water, and Wi-Fi for those wanting to stay connected while escaping the ordinary.
Four modern bathhouses offer crucial amenities like showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the outdoor experience.
What truly sets this campground apart is its freshwater lake complete with a renovated beach and water slide—a rare inland swimming opportunity in a state famous for its coastlines.
After cooling off, visitors can navigate the 3-mile loop trail that winds through the property, perfect for jogging, biking, or spotting local wildlife.
The campground’s most exceptional feature might be its famous neighbor. Zoo Miami houses over 2,000 animals from around the globe, with interactive exhibits that educate and entertain visitors of all ages.
After a day of animal encounters, campers can retreat to their $80-per-night sites, with discounts available for extended stays. Less than a mile away, visitors can experience Zoo World in Panama City Beach with its exotic animals from worldwide and interactive experiences for the whole family. The campground has earned an impressive 4.9 cleanliness rating from guests, ensuring a pristine outdoor experience for all visitors.
History buffs will appreciate that the park honors Larry Thompson, a Miami Herald columnist, and his wife Penny, a pioneering female pilot.
The land itself has stories to tell, having once served as part of the Richmond Naval Air Station before its transformation into public recreation space.
Beyond the immediate attractions, adventurers can uncover nearby treasures like the historic Deering Estate, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, or venture into Miami’s vibrant city scene. For nature enthusiasts seeking more of Florida’s natural wonders, a day trip to Wakulla Springs offers views of the state’s crystal-clear waters and impressive underwater cave network. The park’s tropical ambiance creates a beachy atmosphere that perfectly complements its natural surroundings.
For those seeking true escape, this campground delivers Florida’s natural beauty with a wild twist—all hiding in plain sight.
