Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park

12451 SW 184th St, Miami, FL 33177
270 acres | 109 hectares

Interactive Park Map

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Playground
Field
Parking

About the Location

A Natural Oasis in Urban Miami

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park is a 270-acre natural oasis located in Southwest Miami-Dade County, Florida. The park is situated adjacent to Zoo Miami, offering visitors a unique blend of woodland scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Named after Larry Thompson, a popular Miami Herald columnist, and his wife Penny, a leader in women's aviation, the park stands as a testament to their advocacy for creating more green spaces in Miami-Dade County.

A small group of rheas strolls through the zoo's landscape
A small group of rheas strolls through the zoo's landscape
Photo: Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma (Photos Vrac) (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Lush Landscape

The park's landscape features vast fields of wildflowers, palmettos, and rock pinelands, complemented by a natural buffer of indigenous avocado, mango, and lychee trees.

At the heart of the park lies a 22-acre freshwater lake with a seasonal beach, providing a refreshing spot for visitors to swim and relax.

Looking north across the lakes towards the zoo's Oasis Pavilions
Looking north across the lakes towards the zoo's Oasis Pavilions
Photo: Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma (Photos Vrac) (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Recreational Trails

The park boasts an extensive network of trails suitable for hiking, jogging, biking, and horseback riding, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of South Florida's woodlands.

Campground Facilities

The campground within the park is a major attraction, offering 240 separate campsites for recreational vehicles, each equipped with electrical, sewer, and water hook-ups. For those preferring a more rustic experience, individual tent camping areas are also available.

The campground is supported by four large bathhouse facilities, ensuring comfortable stays for all visitors.

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park serves as a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike, providing a serene escape within the urban landscape of Miami.

All Features & Facilities

Nature & Wildlife

CampingHiking TrailWalking Trail

Water Features & Activities

FishingLakeSwimming Pool

Visitor Services

Parking LotPlaygroundRestroomsWiFi

Food & Gathering

Picnic AreaShelter

Photo Gallery (click to enlarge)

Looking north across the lakes towards the zoo's Oasis Pavilions
Looking north across the lakes towards the zoo's Oasis Pavilions
Photo: Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma (Photos Vrac) (CC BY-SA 2.0)
A small group of rheas strolls through the zoo's landscape
A small group of rheas strolls through the zoo's landscape
Photo: Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma (Photos Vrac) (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Park Size

270 acres | 109 hectares

Opening Hours

Hours not available

Weather