Everglades National Park Guide
Just a short drive south of Miami, Florida lies one of the most fragile and protected landscapes on Earth: Everglades National Park. This sprawling wilderness comprised of hardwood hammocks, expansive wetlands, and of course the iconic American Alligator makes Everglades National Park a must-see destination for any intrepid traveler. For a more detailed list of trails of the park, be sure to check out our Trail Guide, as well as the Top 5 Trails of Everglades National Park
Park Information
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Dade, Monroe, and Collier County, FL
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1.5 milion acres
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1.2 million
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$30
Map of Everglades National Park (courtesy of USGS.gov)
The seemingly endless landscape of Everglades National Park makes it the perfect place for short and long stays, alike. So, how many days should you spend in Everglades National Park? Well, it all depends on how much you want to see of this incredible landscape!
How Many Days Do I Need In Everglades National Park
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Drive Main Park Road to Flamingo, hike the Anhinga Trail, take the Shark Valley Tram to the Observation Tower
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1 Day Itinerary plus: Kayak the Buttonwood Canal, hike the Pa-Hay-Okee trail, hike the Pinelands Trail
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2 Day Itinerary plus: Visit Everglades City and the Gulf Coast Visitors Center, bike the Shark Valley Bike Trail
While much of Everglades National Park can be visited in 1 day, if your travel plans allow it, a 2-3 day trip to this breathtaking park will give you ample time to fully explore the multiple regions within the park. For those looking to explore the Ten Thousand Islands, it is best to dedicate 3-5 days to fully navigate the waterway.
Everglades National Park has two distinct seasons throughout the year: The Wet Season (May-October) and the Dry Season (November-April). The Dry Season offers pleasant temperatures, far less bugs, but typically larger crowds. The Wet Season tends to be very hot and humid with Florida’s mosquito’s in full effect, but offers far less crowds. The park is open 24 hours a day, so while you are always able to access this wonderful wilderness, the weather can often dictate what you can see at Everglades National Park.
When To Visit Everglades National Park
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High temperatures (80-100+ F), lower crowds, increased mosquito’s, higher probability of rain
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Excellent weather (50-70F) with minimal rainstorms, heavy crowds, fewer bugs
As Everglades National Park lies just south of Miami, there are a nearly endless amount of lodging options just east of the park. While no lodging exists within the park, there are 2 campgrounds within the park near the Flamingo region which offer primitive camping sites and RV hookups!
Where To Stay At Everglades National Park
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The town of Homestead, FL sits just east of the park and has multiple places to stay and eat!
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The seasonal town of Everglades City, FL is home to the Gulf Coast Visitors Center and the starting point to the Ten Thousand Islands!
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Sweetwater, FL or Homestead, FL offer incredible convenience for those looking to explore the Shark Valley region of the park
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Camping in Flamingo, FL puts you within the park at it’s southern boundary, offering incredible convenience and stunning night skies
While every aspect of Everglades National Park should be experienced, check out a few of the must-see sights within the park. Make sure to spend some time hiking the trails, viewing the stars, and taking in the sprawling wetlands of Everglades National Park!
