Everglades National Park

The largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, Everglades National Park is a treasure. Recognized as both a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, Florida’s Everglades are home to rare and endangered animals and an abundance of unique fauna, including mangrove forests, hardwood hammocks, and massive open saw grass marshes.

At 1.5 million acres in size, it’s easy to see how one can spend several days in this park – nicknamed “The River of Grass” – and never run out of things to do. Activities available both in and around this enormous park are suitable for a wide variety of ages and range for docile to downright exciting, so both the adventure vacationer and the family with small children can enjoy a trip to the Everglades.

Because of the abundance of water in Everglades National Park, the best way to experience it is in a boat, particularly in the winter when the temperatures aren’t so stifling and the mosquitoes are few. Kayaking and canoeing are quite popular though paddlers should have some experience before they take on the waters of the Everglades National Park. A real test of strength is the 99-mile Wilderness Waterway, which starts at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center and ends at the Flamingo Visitor Center. The trip takes several days and requires careful planning.

Those who aren’t looking for this caliber of adventure, however, can choose a shorter trip. Of course, a visit to the Everglades wouldn’t be complete without a ride on an airboat. A variety of options are available, from small boats that hold just a few passengers to larger vehicles, but all provide an exciting ride and close-up look at the crocs and other animals of the Everglades. (Don’t worry! These boats are totally safe and have been operating for decades.)

The Everglades is also an excellent location for fishing. Avid anglers can hook a variety of species, including snook, tarpon, and redfish. Charter floats are available and hired guides can help visitors determine where the best catch might be during a particular season.

Hikers are in heaven in Everglades National Park. With more than 150 miles of trails from which to choose, hikers can enjoy a variety of adventures in various sections of the park. Ranging from just ¼ mile to several miles in length, the park’s trails provide views of unique plants and trees, allow for excellent bird watching, and take you to pristine lakes and streams and other natural features of the park. Many are bicycle-friendly and handicapped accessible. Those using the trails, however, should always carry extra water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather. 

Lodging in the park is easy to come by, especially for campers. Two drive-in campgrounds can accommodate tents and RVs. Abundant backcountry camping opportunities are available as well, though a permit is required. Most of these are accessible only by boat. 

The onsite Flamingo Lodge and Restaurant is currently closed due to extensive damage in 2005 caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma, but motels are available in neighboring towns.

Visiting Everglades National Park is best accomplished in the winter months, when the average high temperature is in the mid-70s and the low is about 50 degrees. In the summer, both temperature and humidity are high and mosquitoes and other bugs are abundant. Florida is also prone to hurricanes from July through October, so it’s best to avoid visiting at that time as the weather can change quickly and campers could be stranded in dangerous conditions.

Four visitor centers/contact stations are located throughout the park. To reach the Ernest Coe Center or the Flamingo Center from points north, such as Miami, take the Florida Turnpike (Route 821) south until it ends, merging with U.S. 1 at Florida City. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Palm Drive (State Road 9336/SW 344th St.) and follow the signs to the park. (The Flamingo Center is 38 miles inside the park.) Shark Valley Visitor Center is located on Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) 25 miles west of the Florida Turnpike exit for S.W. 8th Street. From the Naples area, take U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail) east to Shark Valley. The Gulf Coast Visitor Center is located 5 miles south of Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) on State Road 29, in Everglades City. From Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley), take exit 80 (State Road 29) south and proceed 20 miles to Everglades City. Once in Everglades City, follow the signs to the park.

Contact:
Everglades National Park
40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034-6733
305-242-7700