Markham Park

The air hums with the rustle of palm fronds and the occasional call of a heron as you turn off FL-84 onto the sprawling grounds of Markham Park in Sunrise, Florida. Morning light filters through scattered oak and pine, dappling the paved paths and open fields where families gather and solo visitors find quiet pockets beneath the shade. The scent of fresh-cut grass mingles with the faint smoke of nearby barbecue pits, as the low murmur of distant voices and the soft thwack of disc golf chains punctuate the calm. It’s a place where the city’s edge feels miles away, even though the urban sprawl encircles this green haven.

Exploring the park reveals a patchwork of activities woven into its 600+ acres. An 18-hole disc golf course snakes through clusters of trees, challenging both novices and seasoned players. Mountain biking trails carve through wooded areas, offering a mix of smooth stretches and technical turns. Several ponds and lakes dot the landscape, their banks prime for quiet fishing sessions where bass and bluegill lurk beneath lily pads. For those who prefer wheeled speed, the paved multi-use trail loops connect to tennis and volleyball courts, while a dedicated dog park lets four-legged visitors romp freely. Off to one side, the shooting range operates with regulated hours, drawing marksmen who appreciate its controlled environment. Meanwhile, remote-controlled airplane enthusiasts take to the skies from a designated field, their planes darting and looping overhead.

Campers find their own rhythm here, often arriving in RVs or vans that tuck into well-maintained sites framed by native trees and shaded by canopies. Utility hookups provide steady water and electricity, though locating sewer connections can require a bit of patience—rangers are quick to assist when called. The quiet nights are a draw, broken only by the gentle suiting of night creatures and the occasional distant bark from the dog park. Picnic shelters pepper the grounds, some reserved for corporate events, while scattered barbecue grills invite spontaneous cookouts. The bathrooms and showers reflect county park upkeep—clean, functional, and close enough to feel like home. Cell service is spotty in some corners, nudging visitors to unplug, though WiFi isn’t offered onsite.

Regulars at Markham Park know to bring their own supplies before setting up camp, as shopping options sit several miles away. They’ve learned to pick sites tucked away from the shooting range,