Dodo Miami

For Floridians seeking a fantastic escape into nature without ever truly leaving the vibrant energy of Miami-Dade County, Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground stands out as a premier destination. This isn't just any park; it's a first-class camping area thoughtfully designed to offer a wide array of recreational opportunities amidst 270 acres of natural South Florida woodland. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast, a family looking for a memorable tent camping experience, or simply a local looking to enjoy a day of outdoor fun, Larry and Penny Thompson provides an unparalleled blend of convenience, amenities, and natural beauty right here in our own backyard.

This article is crafted specifically for us, the locals of Florida, to explore what makes Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground such a beloved and versatile spot. We’ll delve into its prime location, the extensive services and facilities it offers, its distinctive features and highlights, and why it consistently draws rave reviews from those who experience its unique charm. Prepare to discover your next favorite local getaway for relaxation, adventure, and making lasting memories under the South Florida sun.

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground is strategically located at 8600 SW 137th Ave, Miami, FL 33176, USA. This places it in a highly convenient and accessible part of Miami-Dade County, right next to the world-famous Zoo Miami. For Floridians across the state, particularly those in the South Florida region, reaching the park is straightforward, with clear signage and easy access from major highways. Its proximity to a major metropolitan area means that while you're immersed in a natural setting, you're never far from essential services, shopping, or other attractions.

The park's location offers an incredible advantage: the unique blend of wilderness and urban convenience. The 270 acres of natural woodland, including remnants of old fruit groves with avocado, mango, and lychee trees, provide a genuine sense of escape. Yet, being adjacent to Zoo Miami means families can easily combine a camping trip with a visit to one of Florida's premier zoological parks. The park land itself was acquired from a federal government land transfer, ensuring its preservation as one of the last remaining portions of wilderness in Miami-Dade County. This accessibility, coupled with the feeling of being miles away from the urban sprawl once inside, makes Larry and Penny Thompson an ideal and convenient choice for Floridians looking for both nature immersion and practical access to modern amenities.

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services and facilities designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable camping experience for all guests.

• Extensive Campsites: The campground boasts 240 separate campsites, primarily for recreational vehicles (RVs). Each RV site is equipped with full hook-ups, including electrical, sewer, and water connections, catering to modern RV needs. There is also a designated separate tent camping area for traditional campers.
• Modern Bathhouse Facilities: Campers have access to four large bathhouse facilities, which are noted for being clean. These facilities include restrooms and showers with hot water, providing essential comforts away from home.
• Laundry Facilities: For extended stays, the campground conveniently offers on-site laundry facilities, allowing campers to refresh their clothing without leaving the park.
• Freshwater Lake with Beach Access: A large freshwater lake is a central feature of the park, offering its own seasonal beach. This provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water-based recreation.
• Waterslide: Adding to the fun, the park features a waterslide, which operates seasonally and provides a thrilling activity for families and children (access requires a fee).
• Campground Pool: A dedicated swimming pool is available exclusively for registered campground guests, offering a refreshing way to cool off during warmer months (open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
• Picnic Shelters: Nine large picnic shelters are available for rent, suitable for groups of up to 100 people. These shelters include a 6-foot-long barbecue grill, 7 long picnic tables, and running water for cleaning purposes. Note: these shelters do not have electricity.
• Bike and Hiking Trails: The park features extensive bike trails and hiking paths, allowing guests to explore the natural South Florida woodland, observe wildflowers, palmettos, and pine rocklands.
• Facility Rentals: Beyond picnic shelters, other park facilities may be available for rent, providing options for larger events or gatherings.
• Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Rates: The campground offers flexible pricing options, including daily, weekly, and monthly rates for RV and tent sites, accommodating various lengths of stay.

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground is rich with features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional destination for Floridians seeking diverse outdoor recreation.

• Adjacent to Zoo Miami: A major highlight is its direct adjacency to Zoo Miami. This allows for seamless combination trips, where families can enjoy the natural tranquility of the campground and then easily transition to an exciting day at the world-renowned zoo, making it a perfect family adventure hub.
• Natural South Florida Woodland: The park encompasses 270 acres of natural woodland, representing one of the last preserved wilderness portions in Miami-Dade County. This includes significant plant diversity like wildflowers, palmettos, and rock pinelands, offering a genuine ecological experience.
• Unique Fruit Grove Remnants: Within the campground, visitors can see remnants of old fruit groves that once belonged to the University of Miami, featuring avocado, mango, and lychee trees. These act as natural buffers and add a unique historical and botanical touch.
• Freshwater Lake Activities: The large freshwater lake with its own seasonal beach and waterslide is a huge draw, offering swimming, sunbathing, and aquatic fun right within the park. The dedicated campground pool further enhances water recreation options for registered guests.
• Extensive Trail System: The presence of well-maintained bike trails and hiking paths provides ample opportunities for active recreation. Guests can explore the diverse habitats, enjoy birdwatching, or simply take a leisurely stroll.
• Cleanliness and Spacious Sites: Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of the campground, including laundry facilities and bathrooms. The campsites themselves are described as "large enough to not be disturbed by your neighbors," ensuring a peaceful and private experience.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a wide range of activities like swimming, biking, hiking, and proximity to the zoo, the campground is exceptionally well-suited for families with children of all ages, providing "plenty of room to play."
• Harmonious Blend of Recreation and Nature: The park's design truly harmonizes the recreational experience with Miami-Dade County’s finest natural assets, allowing visitors to enjoy modern conveniences while deeply connecting with the environment.
• Flexible Stay Options: The availability of daily, weekly, and monthly rates caters to various travel plans, from quick weekend getaways to extended snowbird stays, making it versatile for Florida locals.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 8600 SW 137th Ave, Miami, FL 33176, USA

Phone: (305) 255-4767 (Main Park Office)

Campground Office Phone: (305) 255-1966

It is highly recommended for all potential visitors to contact the campground office directly for the most current information regarding campsite availability, specific rates, seasonal operating hours for the beach or waterslide, and any park rules or regulations. Reservations, especially during peak season (November to April), are strongly encouraged due to the campground's popularity. You can also find more information on the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department website.

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground is an ideal destination for Floridians, perfectly encapsulating the diverse outdoor opportunities our state offers. For us, who live in a bustling state but cherish our natural spaces, this park provides a unique and accessible oasis. Its prime location, right next to Zoo Miami, means families don't have to choose between a wild animal adventure and a relaxing camping trip; they can seamlessly enjoy both, making it an incredibly convenient and appealing option for local outings and staycations.

The sheer breadth of services—from full RV hookups and clean bathhouses to laundry facilities and a refreshing campground pool—ensures a comfortable stay for all types of campers. The natural setting, with its expansive woodlands, remnant fruit groves, and unique South Florida flora, offers a genuine connection to our state's distinctive environment. We can enjoy biking, hiking, or simply relaxing by the large freshwater lake, complete with its own beach and waterslide for family fun. The positive reviews consistently highlight the park's cleanliness and spacious sites, reinforcing its reputation as a well-maintained and enjoyable place. Larry and Penny Thompson isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a comprehensive outdoor retreat where Floridians can unwind, explore, and create cherished memories right here in the vibrant heart of Miami-Dade County.

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8600 NW 72nd St, Miami, FL 33166, USA