Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park

The park offers a diverse network of trails, including winding paved paths ideal for cycling and leisurely strolls, as well as unpaved hiking and horse trails. A notable feature is the 5k cross-country running trail. Many trails traverse natural South Florida woodland, including rare pine rockland habitats, palmettos, and areas rich with wildflowers, providing a varied experience for hikers and trail runners.

Yes, the park is very accommodating for beginners. It features numerous paved paths that are relatively flat and easy to navigate. For those looking for a gentle introduction to hiking, the unpaved trails through the woodlands offer a mild challenge without significant elevation changes, making them perfect for a leisurely walk amidst nature.

Ample parking is available for day-use visitors. While specific permit requirements for general park access are not typically mentioned for day visitors, there might be fees for certain activities or facilities like the seasonal beach and waterslides. For campers, the campground provides dedicated parking for RVs and tent sites, with associated fees for overnight stays. It's always a good idea to check the official Miami-Dade Parks website for the most current fee and permit information: miamidade.gov/parks/larry-penny.asp.

Pets are welcome in the RV area of the campground. For day visitors, it's generally advisable to check the park's specific pet policies regarding trails and other public areas. While many parks allow leashed dogs on trails, rules can vary. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them.

Beyond hiking and camping, families can enjoy the 22-acre freshwater lake with its seasonal beach and large waterslides, which has an admission fee. The park also offers numerous picnic shelters, some available for rent, complete with barbecue grills, perfect for family gatherings. Its proximity to Zoo Miami also makes it a convenient base for a day of animal adventures.

Visitors should seek out the extensive natural South Florida woodland, which includes vast fields of wildflowers, palmettos, and rock pinelands. The park preserves one of the last remaining wilderness portions in Miami-Dade County and contains the largest example of natural pine rockland outside of Everglades National Park. Remnants of former fruit groves, featuring avocado, mango, and lychee trees, also act as natural buffers within the campground.

The park features an extensive trail network, including a dedicated 5k (approximately 3.1 miles) cross-country running trail. While specific lengths for all individual trails are not detailed, the network offers options for various distances, from shorter paved paths to longer routes through the woodlands. Many trails are designed to allow for loop configurations, providing diverse experiences for hikers and cyclists.

While the park is enjoyable year-round, the cooler, drier months from November to April are generally considered the best time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, offering more comfortable temperatures. During these peak seasons, especially on weekends, the park can be more crowded, particularly the campground and popular activity areas. Visiting on weekdays or earlier in the morning can help avoid larger crowds.

The park itself is primarily a natural recreational area and campground, so it does not host cafes or pubs directly within its boundaries. However, given its location in southwest Miami, there are various dining and accommodation options available in the surrounding neighborhoods. For overnight stays, the park offers a first-class campground with 240 RV sites and tent camping areas, complete with amenities like bathhouses and Wi-Fi.

The park's diverse natural habitats, including pine rocklands and woodlands, support a variety of local wildlife. Visitors often report spotting various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. The natural setting provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, especially during quieter times of the day.

The park's land was once part of the Richmond Naval Station, a blimp base during World War II. It is named after Larry Thompson, a beloved humor columnist for the Miami Herald, and his wife Penny Thompson, a prominent aviator and airshow promoter. Both were passionate advocates for creating parks and green spaces in Miami-Dade County. The campground office features a historical display of their artifacts and books, offering insight into their legacy.