Dry Tortugas National Park Guide
Situated nearly 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Florida, and standing as one of the most remote National Parks in America, lies a watery wonderland marking the end of the Florida Reef: Dry Tortugas National Park. This remote wilderness protects a section of one of the most fragile and undisturbed reefs on Earth, as well as providing a glimpse into the deep history of these desolate islands. For a more in-depth look into this isolated National Park be sure to check out our 5 Facts on Dry Tortugas National Park.
Park Information
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Monroe County, FL (68 miles west of Key West)
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65,000 acre
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59,000
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$15
Map of Dry Tortugas National Park (courtesy of USGS.gov)
The highly remote islands of Dry Tortugas National Park make it a more difficult location to get to compared to many other National Parks. The 7 separate islands all hold their own unique qualities, and could each warrant their own dedicated trip for exploration. So, how many days should you spend in Dry Tortugas National Park? Well, it all depends on how much you want to see of this incredible aquatic wonderland!
How Many Days Do I Need In Dry Tortugas National Park
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Explore the incredible Fort Jefferson
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1 Day Itinerary plus: Kayak to Loggerhead Key and explore Bush Key
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2 Day Itinerary plus: Explore Long Key and Hospital Key
Far and away, most visitors to Dry Tortugas National Park spend a single day exploring this isolated location. This is due to the vast majority of visitors traveling to the park via the Yankee Freedom Ferry or by sea plane. Any other travel to and from Dry Tortugas National Park requires private watercraft.
Dry Tortugas National Park has a tropical savanna climate. This gives the park a relatively consistent temperature year round. Additionally, the park is one of the driest locations in Florida, but the location of Dry Tortugas National Park does leave it exposed to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season spanning April to October. The park is open 24 hours a day, so while you are always able to access this wonderful wilderness, the weather can often dictate if you can even make it these remote islands.
When To Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
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Warm temperatures (65-75 F), moderate chance of rain
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Warmer weather (75-90F) with minimal rain, but increased hurricane risk
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Warmer weather (75-90F) with increased chance of rain, and the highest hurricane risk
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Warm weather (70-85F) with very little rain and virtually no hurricane risk
As Dry Tortugas National Park lies in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, so there is no place that is “close” to the park when it comes to lodging. The islands of Dry Tortugas National Park offer no lodging, but camping is available on Garden Key (beware: camping is first come, first serve and there are only 8 “official” campsites). Any other lodging, eating, and other forms of creature comforts can be found in Key West, Florida…a mere 70 miles away!
Where To Stay At Dry Tortugas National Park
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Key West, FL represents the nearest town to the park and lies 70 miles east
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Nothing can be found to the West
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Nothing can be found to the North
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Nothing can be found to the South
While getting to Dry Tortugas National Park is anything but easy, the journey through the Florida Keys to this magnificent location only adds to the unrivaled beauty of the park. For those willing to make the trek, be sure to explore the beautiful aquatic world surrounding the islands, and leave this wonderland knowing you visited one of the most remote National Parks in America: Dry Tortugas National Park!
