Miami, Florida, with its sunny climate and diverse attractions, serves as an ideal starting point for an unforgettable camper van adventure.
Whether you’re a local looking for a staycation or a traveler seeking a unique experience, this guide will introduce you to companies that offer Miami campervan rentals, must-see destinations, and top camping spots to enhance your road trip.
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Must-See Destinations Near Miami
If you love National Parks, white sand beaches, or an ocean drive along the Atlantic Coast, your Miami RV Rental will get you there. Here are some of our favorite places to visit near Miami, but this is truly just the beginning.
Everglades National Park
A mere drive from the bustling cityscape of Miami lies the enchanting Everglades National Park. This sprawling natural haven boasts a distinct ecosystem with marshes, sawgrass prairies, and mangrove forests.
One of the most captivating aspects of the Everglades is its vibrant wildlife. As you explore the park’s trails and waterways, keep your eyes peeled for alligators, wading birds, and even the elusive Florida panther.
For a unique adventure, hop on an airboat tour to glide through the marshes and catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Nature enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to embark on guided nature walks to learn about the park’s intricate ecosystem, and birdwatching enthusiasts can spot a multitude of avian species.
Key Biscayne
A short drive from Miami’s urban core, Key Biscayne offers a serene escape with its pristine beaches and tranquil ambiance. The iconic Cape Florida Lighthouse stands tall against the backdrop of turquoise waters, inviting visitors to explore its history and climb to the top for panoramic views.
Beachgoers can bask in the sun, swim in the gentle waves, or engage in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Crandon Park, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, features a nature center, picnic spots, and a reef perfect for snorkeling.
The Florida Keys
Embarking on the picturesque Overseas Highway is like stepping into a postcard-worthy journey. This iconic drive leads you through a series of islands that form the Florida Keys. Each key offers its own charm, from the artsy and laid-back Key West to the diving and snorkeling haven of Key Largo.
Immerse yourself in the unique culture of each town, with its colorful architecture, seafood delights, and inviting beaches.
Dive enthusiasts will revel in the opportunity to explore the underwater wonderland of the Keys’ coral reefs, teeming with vibrant marine life.
Big Cypress National Preserve
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, the Big Cypress National Preserve beckons. Encompassing swamps, cypress forests, and prairies, this preserve is a testament to the untamed beauty of South Florida.
The Loop Road offers a scenic drive through this diverse landscape, where you might encounter alligators lounging by the water’s edge or the rare Florida panther stealthily making its way through the wilderness.
Adventurous souls can set up camp and explore the hiking trails, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem.
Biscayne National Park
Dive into the azure waters of Biscayne National Park to uncover an underwater paradise that rivals the beauty of its terrestrial counterparts. Snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts will be entranced by the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and other marine life.
The Maritime Heritage Trail provides a glimpse into the park’s history with its shipwrecks and underwater artifacts. Kayakers can paddle through the mangrove channels, immersing themselves in the delicate ecosystems that thrive along the coastline.
Miami Camper Van Rental Companies
Whether you’re looking to support a local company, prefer the security of a well-renowned global or nationwide business, or want to support other like-minded individuals by renting peer-to-peer, you’ll be able to find the perfect RV rental in Miami.
Some even offer one-way RV rentals to or from Fort Lauderdale, so you could experience even more of the State with half the driving by opting for a one-way trip with a flight back to your starting point.
Vanhoo Campervans
Vanhoo Campervans offers a personalized and unique campervan experience. Their RV rentals in Miami are thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind, creating a cozy home on wheels for travelers.
With a focus on providing a local experience, Vanhoo Campervans allows you to explore Miami and its surroundings in a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing campervan.
Ondevan Campervan
Ondevan Campervan offers versatile and compact campervans for travelers seeking adventure. Their campervans are designed to provide convenience and mobility, making them ideal for exploring Miami and beyond.
With options for different group sizes, Ondevan Campervan aims to provide an accessible and enjoyable campervan rental experience for those looking to experience the freedom of the open road.
Escape Campervans
Escape Campervans is North America’s largest campervan rental network and provides a vibrant and artistic approach to campervan travel. Their campervans are adorned with unique designs that stand out on the road.
Offering both style and functionality, Escape Campervans allows you to explore Miami and its nearby destinations with ease. With a range of amenities and a focus on creativity, their campervans provide a memorable way to experience the region’s beauty.
Indie Campers
Indie Campers is a Global campervan rental company that offers a variety of campervans and RV rentals, providing travelers with a range of options to suit their preferences. With a commitment to quality and comfort, Indie Campers aims to make campervan travel accessible to everyone.
Their campervans come equipped with essential amenities, allowing you to embark on a road trip adventure in and around Miami while enjoying the comforts of home.
Outdoorsy
Outdoorsy connects travelers with a wide selection of campervans and RVs for rent by individual owners. This peer-to-peer platform offers diverse options, allowing you to find a campervan that suits your preferences and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a compact campervan or a larger RV, Outdoorsy provides a marketplace for Miami campervan rentals tailored to your needs. Some rental options are even pet-friendly RVs!
Places to Camp in and Around Miami, FL
Where should you stay now that you’ve reserved your Miami campervan rental? Here’s a list of our top picks for RV campgrounds and RV parks in and around Miami.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Nestled along the Loxahatchee River, Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers a serene camping experience surrounded by lush landscapes and waterways. With various camping options, including tent, RV, and equestrian sites, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and canoeing. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide wildlife observation and exploration opportunities, making it an ideal escape into nature’s beauty.
Larry and Penny Thompson Park
Larry and Penny Thompson Park, operated by Miami-Dade County Parks, offers an urban camping oasis in Miami. This family-friendly park features RV and tent camping sites with access to restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. With a freshwater lake for swimming and water activities, the park balances natural surroundings and convenient amenities.
Everglades National Park Campgrounds
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Everglades at the campgrounds within Everglades National Park. Experience the unique wilderness of this World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve by camping amid diverse ecosystems. With various campgrounds catering to different amenities, visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and stargazing in this iconic national park.
Curry Hammock State Park
Curry Hammock State Park is located in the Florida Keys and offers a coastal camping experience surrounded by turquoise waters and swaying palms. The park provides tent and RV camping sites, a pristine beach, and kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching opportunities. Experience the laid-back atmosphere of the Keys while enjoying the natural beauty of this unique park.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Dive into an underwater paradise at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States. With water-accessible campsites, visitors can camp steps away from vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours allow you to explore the breathtaking underwater world of this coastal gem.
Oleta River State Park
As Florida’s largest urban park, Oleta River State Park offers a nature retreat near Miami’s urban landscape, surrounded by lush forests and the tranquil Oleta River. The park has limited camping options, which only consist of tent sites and cabin rentals. It might be worth booking a cabin for a night to have the opportunity to paddle along mangrove trails, bike through scenic paths, or enjoy the sandy beach for a relaxing experience close to the city.
Miami Everglades RV Resort
If you’ve decided on a luxury RV rental, the Miami Everglades RV Resort might be just the place to stay. Nestled in the heart of the Everglades yet close to Miami, it offers easy access to nature and urban attractions. Modern comforts meet camping with full hookup RV sites catering to various vehicles, ensuring a comfortable stay. The resort is designed for families, featuring a playground and game room, catering to both younger campers and parents.
Boondocking and Stealth Camping
You can use an app like iOverlander to find places to stealth camp in downtown Miami or near Miami Beach. There are also boondocking opportunities outside the city.
Always obey local laws and regulations regarding overnight parking, leave no trace, and be mindful of your neighbors.
Tips for Monitoring Weather Conditions
We’ve all heard about hurricanes from the Atlantic Ocean and other inclement weather that can hit Florida unexpectedly. When traveling in an RV in Miami, you should use extra precautions to monitor the weather to ensure your safety during your adventure.
Download weather apps for your smartphone that provide real-time updates on local weather conditions. Popular apps include The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and NOAA Weather.
Tune into local news channels or radio stations for weather updates specific to the Miami area.
Websites like Weather.com and NOAA.gov offer detailed forecasts, radar images, and severe weather alerts.
Wildlife and Bug Awareness
The diverse wildlife in Florida is very different than wildlife in other States throughout the US. Here are a few things to be aware of while traveling in an RV rental.
- Alligators: Especially prevalent in the Everglades, alligators are a significant wildlife presence. Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
- Mosquitoes: Florida’s humid climate means mosquitoes are common, particularly in wetland areas. Pack insect repellent and consider using screens on windows and doors of your campervan.
- Snakes: While encounters are rare, it’s good to be cautious and avoid disturbing snakes if you come across them.
- Spiders: Some areas might have venomous spiders. Be mindful when reaching into dark or hidden spaces.
- Raccoons and Birds: These critters might be attracted to your campsite for food. Secure your food and trash properly to avoid unwanted visitors.
- Sea Life: When camping near the ocean, be aware of jellyfish, stingrays, and other sea life. Educate yourself on local marine dangers.
Where Will You Take Your Miami Campervan Rental?
As you plan your campervan adventure in and around Miami, consider the camper van rental companies, must-see destinations, and camping spots mentioned above.
From bustling city life to the serene natural wonders, this region offers a diverse range of experiences that can be best enjoyed with the freedom and flexibility of a campervan journey.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, Find Your Outside™, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
