List of National Parks in Florida

Florida has 3 national parks: Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park

In this article I will write about these parks (infomation, things to do, weather). I also add Florida National Parks Map at the end of the article.

List of National Parks in Florida

1. Everglades National Park

Location: Everglades National Park is located in southern Florida, encompassing portions of Monroe, Miami-Dade, and Collier counties. The park is situated just west of Miami and extends southward to the Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Things to Do:

1. Wildlife Viewing: Everglades National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife. Visitors can observe alligators, birds, turtles, and other wildlife species in their natural habitats. Popular wildlife viewing spots include Anhinga Trail, Shark Valley, and Eco Pond.
2. Boating and Kayaking: Explore the park’s waterways by taking a boat tour or renting a kayak. Visitors can paddle through mangrove forests, coastal marshes, and freshwater rivers while observing wildlife along the way. Rentals and guided tours are available at various locations within the park.
3. Trails and Hiking: The park offers numerous trails for hiking and walking, ranging from short boardwalks to longer wilderness trails. Popular hiking destinations include Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail, and the Pinelands Trail.
4. Ranger-Led Programs: Join ranger-led programs and guided walks to learn more about the park’s ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Programs cover a wide range of topics and are available at different locations throughout the park.
5. Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive along the park’s main roads, including the Main Park Road and the Tamiami Trail (Highway 41). These routes offer opportunities to see wildlife, scenic views, and unique ecosystems such as sawgrass prairies and cypress swamps.

Weather: Everglades National Park experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. Visitors should be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms, especially during the wet season (June to October).

2. Biscayne National Park

Location: Biscayne National Park is located in southern Florida, approximately 20 miles south of downtown Miami. The park encompasses a diverse marine ecosystem within Biscayne Bay and the surrounding waters.

Things to Do:

1. Snorkeling and Diving: Biscayne National Park is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater marine life in designated snorkeling and diving areas.
2. Boating and Kayaking: The park offers opportunities for boating and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse marine habitats, including mangrove forests, shallow flats, and secluded islands. Boat tours, rentals, and guided kayak tours are available within the park.
3. Wildlife Viewing: Biscayne National Park is home to a variety of marine and bird species. Visitors can observe manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous bird species while exploring the park’s waters and islands.
4. Fishing: Fishing is permitted in designated areas of Biscayne National Park. Anglers can fish from shore or boat for a variety of species, including snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish. A Florida fishing license is required for recreational fishing in the park.
5. Guided Tours and Programs: Ranger-led programs, guided tours, and educational activities are available at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. These programs cover topics such as marine ecology, conservation, and the cultural history of the park.

Weather: Biscayne National Park experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The weather is generally mild in the winter months (December to February), with average temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). Summers (June to September) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C) and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. It’s advisable to check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities in Biscayne National Park and to take necessary precautions for sun protection and hydration while exploring the park’s marine and coastal environments.

3. Dry Tortugas National Park

Location: Dry Tortugas National Park is located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The park encompasses a group of seven small islands, including Garden Key, where the historic Fort Jefferson is located.

Things to Do:

1. Explore Fort Jefferson: The centerpiece of Dry Tortugas National Park is Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress. Visitors can explore the fort’s architecture, history, and exhibits, as well as participate in ranger-led tours to learn about its role in American history.
2. Snorkeling and Diving: The park’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life in designated snorkeling and diving areas around the islands. The park is home to diverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove habitats.
3. Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: Dry Tortugas National Park is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The islands provide important nesting and feeding grounds for a variety of bird species, including seabirds, shorebirds, and migratory birds. Visitors can observe birds and other wildlife while exploring the islands and surrounding waters.
4. Camping: Camping is available on Garden Key, the main island within Dry Tortugas National Park. The campground offers tent camping sites with basic amenities, including picnic tables, grills, and restroom facilities. Camping permits are required and can be obtained through the park’s reservation system.
5. Boating and Kayaking: Visitors can explore the park’s islands and waters by boat or kayak. Boating and kayaking provide opportunities to explore secluded beaches, mangrove islands, and scenic coastal landscapes within the park.

Weather: Dry Tortugas National Park experiences a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures and moderate humidity throughout the year. The weather is generally mild in the winter months (December to February), with average temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). Summers (June to September) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C).

Visitors should be prepared for sun exposure and high temperatures, especially during the summer months. It’s advisable to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of water when exploring Dry Tortugas National Park. Additionally, visitors should monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for occasional thunderstorms, especially during the summer rainy season.

Florida National Parks Map

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