Overview
Everglades National Park covers roughly 1.5 million acres at the southern tip of the Florida Peninsula, making it the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and one of the most ecologically significant wetlands on Earth. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance, it protects a slow-moving mosaic of sawgrass marshes, mangrove estuaries, cypress strands, and coastal prairies.
The park is often described as a 'river of grass' — a phrase coined by author Marjory Stoneman Douglas — because its defining feature is a wide, shallow sheet of freshwater that flows almost imperceptibly southward from Lake Okeechobee toward Florida Bay. This gentle flow underpins the entire ecosystem, making water management one of the central conservation challenges the park faces.
Wildlife is the headline attraction. The park is home to more than 360 bird species, 300 types of fish, dozens of reptile species including both American alligators and the rarer American crocodile, and endangered mammals such as the Florida panther and West Indian manatee. Sightings of alligators are extremely common; other species require patience and timing.
Despite its size, the park is relatively accessible from Miami, making it feasible as a day trip, though overnight visitors gain a much richer experience — particularly at dawn and dusk when wildlife activity peaks.
Before You Go
Everglades National Park is a US federal facility managed by the National Park Service. An entrance fee applies; verify current rates and any fee-free days at the official NPS site (nps.gov/ever). An America the Beautiful annual pass covers admission and may be worthwhile if you plan to visit multiple national parks.
Seasonal considerations
- Dry season (Nov–Apr): Cooler temperatures, dramatically reduced mosquito populations, and concentrated wildlife around remaining water sources. This is peak visitor season; book accommodations in nearby gateway towns well in advance.
- Wet season (May–Oct): Hot, humid, and prone to afternoon thunderstorms and intense mosquito activity. Some trails and facilities may be affected by flooding. The landscape is lush and visually striking, and crowds are thinner.
What to pack
- Insect repellent — DEET-based or picaridin — is essential year-round and especially critical in wet season
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, and UV-protective clothing
- Water: carry more than you think you need; there are limited potable water sources in the backcountry
- Waterproof bags or cases for electronics if kayaking or canoeing
- Closed-toe shoes for hiking; water shoes if wading is planned
The park has three main entrance areas: the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center near Homestead (primary entrance), Shark Valley (north, accessed from the Tamiami Trail/US-41), and the Gulf Coast Visitor Center at Everglades City. Each provides a distinct experience.
Getting There
The primary gateway to Everglades National Park is Miami, approximately 45 miles northeast of the main Ernest F. Coe entrance near Homestead, Florida. Miami International Airport (MIA) is the closest major international airport; Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is another reasonable option.
By car: Driving is the most practical way to reach and explore the park. From Miami, take the Florida Turnpike (SR-821) south to Homestead, then follow SR-9336 west into the park. The Shark Valley entrance is reached via US-41 (Tamiami Trail) west of Miami. The Gulf Coast entrance at Everglades City is accessible via US-41 and then SR-29 south.
Rental car: Renting a vehicle in Miami is strongly recommended. The park's road network, while limited, requires a car to move between trailheads, boardwalks, and visitor centers. There is no meaningful public transit serving the park interior.
Shuttle services: Some tour operators based in Miami offer day-trip transportation packages. Verify availability and pickup points directly with operators before booking.
Getting Around
Within the park, a single paved road — the Main Park Road — runs approximately 38 miles from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center to Flamingo on Florida Bay. Stops along this road include Royal Palm (access to Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail), Pa-hay-okee Overlook, Mahogany Hammock, and Nine Mile Pond. Plan to stop frequently rather than driving through.
Biking is excellent at Shark Valley, where a 15-mile paved loop road is open to cyclists and pedestrians but closed to private vehicles (a tram service is available for those who prefer not to cycle). Bike rentals are available at Shark Valley; verify hours and availability locally.
Kayaking and canoeing are among the most rewarding ways to experience the park, particularly in the mangrove estuaries around Flamingo and the Ten Thousand Islands area near Everglades City. Rentals and guided tours are available at both locations — confirm current providers and rates on the NPS site or locally.
Airboat tours are popular in the broader Everglades region but are generally not permitted within the national park boundaries; they operate on adjacent state and tribal lands. If you take one, choose a licensed, reputable operator.
Walking and hiking options range from short accessible boardwalk loops (Anhinga Trail is one of the best wildlife-viewing spots in North America) to multi-day backcountry routes requiring a permit.
Where to Stay
Lodging within Everglades National Park itself is very limited. The Flamingo area historically had lodge facilities; availability and operational status of any in-park accommodations should be verified directly with the NPS (nps.gov/ever) or the current concessionaire, as this has changed over time.
Camping is the most established way to stay inside the park. Developed campgrounds include Long Pine Key and Flamingo, both of which have tent and RV sites. Flamingo also has some utility hookups. Backcountry camping on chickee platforms (raised wooden platforms over water) and ground sites requires a separate permit. Reservations for developed sites can be made through recreation.gov; verify current availability and fees there.
Gateway town lodging: Most visitors base themselves in Homestead or Florida City, both just outside the main park entrance. These towns have a range of chain motels, independent hotels, and vacation rentals. Everglades City, near the Gulf Coast entrance, has a small selection of inns and rental cottages suited to anglers and paddlers.
Book accommodation well ahead for the November–April peak season, particularly around holiday weekends.
Things to See & Do
Wildlife Viewing
The Anhinga Trail at Royal Palm (less than a mile, flat boardwalk) consistently delivers close encounters with anhingas, herons, egrets, and alligators — it is arguably the best short wildlife walk in Florida. The nearby Gumbo Limbo Trail offers a contrasting forest hammock environment. Pa-hay-okee Overlook provides sweeping views over open sawgrass prairie.
Birdwatching
The park is a globally significant birding destination. Species encountered vary by season: wading birds concentrate dramatically around drying pools during the dry season; migratory raptors and songbirds pass through in fall and spring; the threatened snail kite can sometimes be spotted. Eco Pond near Flamingo is a reliable spot for shorebirds and waders.
Paddling
The Wilderness Waterway is a 99-mile canoe and kayak route between Flamingo and Everglades City, typically completed over 7–10 days with backcountry camping. Shorter day paddles in Nine Mile Pond, West Lake, and the Hell's Bay canoe trail offer solitude and immersion in mangrove tunnels. Backcountry permits are required for overnight trips; obtain them from visitor centers.
Tram Tour at Shark Valley
A guided tram tour operates on the 15-mile loop at Shark Valley, with narration and stops for wildlife viewing. The observation tower at the halfway point offers a panoramic view over the sawgrass plain. This is one of the most accessible ways to see the Everglades interior without hiking. Verify schedules and booking at the official NPS or concessionaire site.
Stargazing
Far from Miami's light pollution, Flamingo on Florida Bay can offer remarkably dark skies on clear nights. The park is not formally designated as a dark-sky site, but it remains one of South Florida's better locations for amateur stargazing.
Fishing
Saltwater and freshwater fishing are permitted in designated areas with a valid Florida fishing license. Florida Bay and the backcountry around Flamingo are known for bonefish, tarpon, and snook. Confirm current regulations and any seasonal closures with park rangers.
Food & Drink
Dining options inside the park are very limited and subject to change based on concessionaire contracts. The Flamingo Marina area has historically offered some food service, but visitors should not rely on this and should confirm current availability before visiting. Pack your own meals and snacks for any full-day outing in the park interior.
Homestead and Florida City have a genuine dining scene proportionate to their size — expect American diners, Cuban and Latin American restaurants (reflecting the demographics of South Miami-Dade County), seafood spots, and fast food chains. Everglades City has a handful of restaurants, many specializing in local seafood including stone crab claws (seasonal, roughly October–May) and Everglades catfish.
Drinking water: potable water is available at visitor centers and developed campgrounds but not reliably elsewhere in the park. Always carry at least two liters per person on any hike or paddle, more in warm weather.
Practical Information
Emergency and medical: Cell phone coverage is unreliable across much of the park interior. Inform someone of your itinerary before heading into the backcountry. The nearest hospitals are in Homestead and the greater Miami area. Park rangers can coordinate emergency response; visitor centers are your best point of contact.
Connectivity: Do not expect reliable cellular data service away from visitor centers and entrance areas. Download offline maps (e.g., via the NPS app or maps.me) and any permits or reservation confirmations before you arrive.
Mosquitoes and wildlife: Mosquito populations can be severe, especially in summer — repellent is not optional. Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Alligators are wild animals and, while generally not aggressive toward people who keep their distance, feeding them is illegal and dangerous. Never approach or handle any wildlife.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash. Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings at developed campgrounds. Collecting plants, animals, rocks, or other natural materials is prohibited.
Permits: Backcountry overnight camping requires a permit, obtainable at visitor centers. A fee applies; verify current rates locally. Permits are limited and can fill quickly during peak season.
Accessibility: The Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail, Pa-hay-okee Overlook, and the Royal Palm area are paved and largely accessible to visitors with mobility limitations. Contact the park directly for current accessibility information on specific facilities.
Safety
The Everglades presents genuine wilderness hazards that visitors should take seriously.
Lightning: The Florida peninsula has one of the highest lightning strike rates in North America. Afternoon thunderstorms build rapidly, especially in summer. If you hear thunder, move indoors or to a hard-topped vehicle immediately. Avoid open areas, tall trees, and bodies of water during storms.
Alligators and crocodiles: Both species are present and wild. Keep a minimum of 15 feet of distance, never feed them, and keep children and pets close. Incidents are rare when visitors behave responsibly.
Heat and dehydration: Even in winter, temperatures combined with sun and humidity can cause heat exhaustion. Drink water consistently, rest in shade, and do not underestimate exertion during paddling or hiking.
Getting lost: The park's interior — especially the backcountry waterways — can be disorienting. Carry a compass and physical map in addition to any GPS device. Waterway markers exist but can be difficult to follow in poor visibility.
Venomous species: Several species of venomous snakes are present, including the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake and cottonmouth. Watch where you step, particularly near water and in dense vegetation. The Florida cottonmouth is semi-aquatic and can be encountered during paddling.
