
Best Backpacking Destinations in Miami, United States
1. Everglades National Park
Explore the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States with diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot alligators, crocodiles, manatees, and hundreds of bird species.
- Airboat Tours: Experience thrilling airboat tours through the park's scenic waterways.
- Camping Opportunities: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking an immersive experience.
2. Biscayne National Park
Discover the beauty of marine life and coral reefs with snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Coral Reef Snorkeling: Snorkel among colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life.
- Diving Sites: Dive at underwater shipwrecks and explore sunken treasures.
- Backcountry Camping: Camp on remote islands, accessible only by boat or kayak.
3. Big Cypress National Preserve
Embark on a wilderness adventure through the vast wetlands and hardwood hammocks.
- Wildlife Observation: Enjoy spotting black bears, panthers, and various birds.
- Backpacking Trails: Hike along the nine backcountry trails available for overnight camping.
- Airboat Tours: Experience the unique airboat tours to explore the preserve's vast wetlands.
4. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Dive into crystal-clear waters filled with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Coral Reef Diving: Discover the beauty of underwater coral gardens teeming with marine life.
- Shipwreck Sites: Explore sunken shipwrecks that serve as artificial reefs.
- Backcountry Camping: Camp on remote islands, accessible only by boat or kayak.
5. Jupiter Beach Park
Relax on pristine beaches and explore the Juno Dunes Natural Area.
- Beach Activities: Sunbathe, swim, or surf on the beautiful white-sand beach.
- Juno Dunes Natural Area: Hike through sand dunes and discover native plants and wildlife.
- Camping Grounds: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking a coastal experience.
6. Bahia Honda State Park
Unwind on breathtaking beaches and explore the historic Old Bahia Honda Railroad.
- Beach Activities: Swim, sunbathe, or paddleboard in crystal-clear waters.
- Historic Railroad: Learn about the park's history at the old railroad station and museum.
- Backcountry Camping: Camp on secluded islands, accessible only by boat or kayak.
7. Long Key State Park
Relax on stunning beaches and explore the underwater life at the nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
- Beach Activities: Sunbathe, swim, or kayak in the pristine waters.
- Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving: Snorkel or dive at the nearby coral reefs to discover marine life.
- Camping Grounds: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking a coastal experience.
8. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Explore the only living coral reef in the United States through snorkeling and diving.
- Coral Reef Snorkeling: Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.
- Underwater Trail: Follow the underwater trail to explore shipwrecks and other marine attractions.
- Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to observe dolphins, manatees, and various bird species.
9. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Relax on the picturesque beach or explore the historic fort.
- Beach Activities: Swim, sunbathe, or snorkel in the clear waters.
- Historic Fort: Learn about the park's history at the historic fort and museum.
- Camping Grounds: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking a coastal experience.
10. Crandon Park
Enjoy a day at the beach or explore the beautiful Pearson-Terry Estate.
- Beach Activities: Sunbathe, swim, or fish in the calm waters.
- Pearson-Terry Estate: Visit the historic mansion and learn about its fascinating history.
- Camping Grounds: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking a coastal experience.
11. Oleta River State Park
Explore the largest state park in Miami-Dade County with kayaking, biking, and hiking opportunities.
- Kayaking: Paddle through mangrove tunnels or out to the Biscayne Bay.
- Biking Trails: Cycle along scenic trails with varying levels of difficulty.
- Camping Grounds: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking a wilderness experience.
12. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Relax on the beautiful beach or climb the historic lighthouse.
- Beach Activities: Swim, sunbathe, or fish in the clear waters.
- Historic Lighthouse: Climb the historic lighthouse for stunning views of the park and ocean.
- Camping Grounds: Overnight camping is available for backpackers seeking a coastal experience.
13. Everglades Wayside & Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Explore the unique ecosystems of the Everglades, including the Fakahatchee Strand swamp.
- Wildlife Observation: Spot alligators, bears, and various bird species.
- Hiking Trails: Hike along scenic trails through the diverse ecosystems.
- Airboat Tours: Experience thrilling airboat tours to explore the vast wetlands.
14. Big Cypress National Preserve Backcountry
Embark on a wilderness adventure through the vast wetlands and hardwood hammocks of Big Cypress National Preserve.
- Wildlife Observation: Enjoy spotting black bears, panthers, and various birds.
- Backcountry Trails: Hike along the nine backcountry trails available for overnight camping.
- Airboat Tours: Experience the unique airboat tours to explore the preserve's vast wetlands.
15. Everglades National Park Backcountry
Experience the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States with diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot alligators, crocodiles, manatees, and hundreds of bird species.
- Backcountry Trails: Hike along the numerous backcountry trails available for overnight camping.
- Airboat Tours: Experience thrilling airboat tours to explore the park's scenic waterways.