The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is open from 8 AM to 5 PM from mid-December to mid-April, and from 9 AM to 5 PM the rest of the year. The Gulf Coast Visitor Center operates from 8 AM to 5 PM from mid-November to mid-April, and from 9 AM to 5 PM otherwise. The Shark Valley Visitor Center is open from 9 AM to 5 PM year-round. The Flamingo Visitor Center is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM from mid-November to mid-April and intermittently during the wet season.
Everglades National Park entrance fees are $20-$35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, $20 per individual for a 7-day pass, and $70 for an annual pass. Children under 15 enter free. Annual passes and Interagency Passes are also available.
From Miami, take the Florida Turnpike south to U.S. 1 at Florida City, then turn right onto Palm Drive, immersing yourself in a vast, pristine wilderness.
Free parking at Ernest F Coe Visitor Center for cars, RVs, and motorcycles. No overnight parking at the visitor center, but available at campgrounds like Flamingo and Long Pine Key. Entrance fee required for park access.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Everglades National Park, a vast and labyrinthine tapestry of wetlands, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies, beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its primordial beauty. Here, the lines between land and water blur, creating a unique ecosystem teeming with life. The Anhinga Trail, a serene boardwalk, winds through lush vegetation, offering effortless access to a diverse array of wildlife, including anhingas, ospreys, and alligators, their ancient eyes watching from the shadows.
At Shark Valley, a 15-mile loop road invites exploration on foot, by bike, or via a guided tram tour, each mode revealing the park’s rich wildlife concentrations. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center serves as a gateway, providing insightful exhibits and maps that guide visitors through the park’s extensive hiking trails and birdwatching hotspots.
As the seasons change, the Everglades transforms: the dry season’s clear skies give way to the vibrant greens of the wet season, when the park comes alive with the sounds of waterfowl and the rustle of leaves. During April, the Everglades Dark Sky Celebration unfolds, a month-long tribute to the night sky, astronomy, and celestial wonders.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, boating and paddling offer a tranquil way to explore the park’s navigable waters, where tarpon and largemouth bass swim beneath the surface. Nearby, the charming town of Everglades City awaits, its boardwalks and local eateries a perfect complement to the natural splendor of the park.
Everglades National Park Adventures provides exclusive boat tours through the Ten Thousand Islands, led by trained guides who share the area’s natural, cultural, and historical significance. With park rangers often joining these tours, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for this fragile yet resilient ecosystem.
- Area (mi²)
- 2357
- Annual visitors
- 810 189
- Established year
- 1934
Top 3 Facts about Everglades National Park
This vast ecosystem is the largest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere and features a slow-moving river that is 97 kilometers wide and over 160 kilometers long, flowing across a limestone shelf. The highest elevation in this region is only 7.6 meters above sea level.
In this lush wetland, American alligators and American crocodiles coexist with West Indian manatees and Florida panthers. Roseate spoonbills, white ibises, and wood storks wade through waters teeming with fish. River otters play in the shadows, while white-tailed deer graze at dawn and dusk. Mangroves and sawgrass marshes provide a vibrant backdrop for this diverse ecosystem, home to over 40 mammal species and hundreds of bird varieties. The air is filled with the calls of snail kites and the gentle glide of bottlenose dolphins. This is a realm where nature’s splendor is on full display.
In this vast, nearly flat expanse, sawgrass prairies stretch over nine feet tall, painting the landscape in a sea of green. The water, a crystal-clear reflection of the sky, flows gently through the marshes, creating a serene and untouched wilderness. Here, the largest continuous mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere thrives, a testament to nature’s intricate balance.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during the dry season (November to March) to avoid heat and rain. Arrive early, fill up on gas, and pack snacks and water. Explore various trails and rest at scenic stops like Pa-hay-okee Overlook. Limited food options available.
Pack Appropriately
Pack breathable clothing, ample sunscreen, and insect repellent. Bring a first aid kit, map, and extra water. Adjust gear based on trip length and weather. Include sturdy footwear and a lightweight tent for longer stays.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding them, and stay on designated trails to protect fragile habitats and respect the natural behaviors of the animals. Bring insect repellent and stay hydrated, especially in summer. Respect rookeries and nesting grounds.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and trail conditions. Exercise caution near water, ledges, and wildlife. Follow signs and park rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 305-242-7700.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (70s-80s°F) and fewer mosquitoes, making it ideal for exploring. Join National Park Week in April for ranger-led activities, wet walks, and wildlife observation. Perfect time for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse in this unique ecosystem.
Summer brings sweltering heat (90s°F) and intense humidity, but also unique experiences. Join the Everglades Experience guided tour in June, exploring Royal Palm and the Nike Missile Site. Airboat rides and kayak tours offer thrilling encounters with wildlife amidst lush, serene landscapes. Though challenging, summer’s wet season reveals the ecosystem’s full vigor.
Visit in fall, from September to November, for optimal animal spotting as water levels recede. Comfortable temperatures range from 70s to 80s°F, but be prepared for increasing humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Fewer crowds make it ideal for immersive experiences.
Winter, from December to April, offers mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and low humidity, making it ideal for spotting alligators, birds, and other wildlife amidst comfortable weather conditions.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Everglades National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Everglades National Park is Miami, Florida, which is about 50 miles away. Other nearby cities include Homestead and Hialeah, but Miami is the largest and most convenient for access.
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The Anhinga Trail is one of the best trails for kids, as it is a short 0.8-mile loop on a paved path with a boardwalk over the water, offering great wildlife viewing of animals like alligators, turtles, and various bird species. It starts at the Royal Palm Information Station and Bookstore and is easy and stroller-friendly.
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You can bring your dog to certain areas, such as campgrounds, paved roads, parking lots, picnic areas, and private boats, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dogs are not allowed on trails or in backcountry campsites. Keep them away from water to avoid alligators and heat exhaustion.
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You can park an RV, camper, or motorhome, but it must be 35 feet or less in length. There are two campgrounds: Flamingo Campground, which is open year-round, and Long Pine Key Campground, which is open from November to May. Both have sites for RVs, including some with full hookups.
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Start at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center at 8 am to get an overview and plan your day. Visit the Anhinga Trail for a chance to see alligators and birds, and head to Shark Valley for a 2-hour tram tour or an airboat ride. If time allows, drive to the Flamingo area, which is about an hour away, and explore the short hikes and viewpoints along the way.
