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Everglades National Park

Designation: National Park

Location: Florida

Visit Official Park Website

📘 Park Overview

Established in 1947 as the first national park created for its biodiversity, Everglades National Park protects 1.5 million acres of wetland, forest, and marine habitats and the native plants and animals that call it home. With several international designations, the park provides a major source of drinking water for local residents of South Florida and recreational opportunities for all.

🌤 Weather Information

The climate in Florida is known to be mild and sunny.The average annual temperatures for South Florida and the Keys range from 74° to 77°F (23° to 25°C). There are two seasons at the Everglades National Park: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season runs from Mid-May to November and the dry season runs from December to mid-May.

🚗 Directions

Directions to Ernest Coe Visitor Center 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034 Visitors coming from the Miami area and points north should take the Florida Turnpike (Route 821) south until it ends merging with U.S. 1 at Florida City. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Palm Drive (State Road 9336/SW 344th St.) and follow the signs to the park. Visitors driving north from the Florida Keys should turn left on Palm Drive in Florida City and follow the signs to the park.

Images

A sunset creates a silhouette of a cypress tree with needle-like leaves that is shaped like an 'N'.

Cypress Tree Sunrise (2020 Photo Contest)

Credit: NPS Photo by Miguel Salas

Two canoes at Nine Mile Pond during sunset.

A meeting ground of marsh and mangrove environments. You may see alligators, wading birds, turtles, and fish.

Credit: NPS Photo

An American Alligator high walks the Anhinga Trail.

An American Alligator high walks the Anhinga Trail.

Credit: NPS Photo

Two visitors bike along the road in Shark Valley.

Biking is a great way to experience the quiet beauty of the Everglades.

Credit: NPS Photo

An aerial view of the landscape transition from Sawgrass to Florida Bay.

An aerial view of the landscape transition from Sawgrass to Florida Bay.

Credit: NPS Photo

Three tents are put up along the Long Pine Key campsite.

Long Pine Key Campground is open seasonally from November through May. It is located seven miles (11 km) from the main entrance, just off the main road.

Credit: NPS Photo

Activities

Topics

Operating Hours

Sunday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Wednesday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Friday
All Day
Saturday
All Day

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle
Admits the passholder and passengers of a single vehicle or vessel. Good for 7 consecutive days at all park entrances.
$35.00
Entrance - Motorcycle
Good for 7 consecutive days at all park entrances.
$30.00
Entrance - Per Person
Good for 7 consecutive days at all park entrances. Admits one individual hiker, bicyclist, pedestrian, or human-powered paddlecraft, when not arriving in a vehicle or vessel. Individuals 15 years old and younger, are admitted free of charge.
$20.00
Entrance - Education/Academic Groups
All accredited educational and scientific institutions are eligible to receive free entrance to the park. Bringing your classroom to the park can present many unique learning opportunities and novel ways for your students to advance their studies. The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA), Public Law 108-447, provides the National Park Service statutory authority to allow “outings conducted for non-commercial educational purposes by schools or bona fide academic institutions.”
$0.00
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach
A commercial tour is defined as persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced or sold for leisure recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provisions of the service. Entrance fees are charges based on the seating capacity of the vehicle. Commercial entry good for 7 days as long as its the same passenger group.
$300.00
Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus
A commercial tour is defined as persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced or sold for leisure recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provisions of the service. Entrance fees are charges based on the seating capacity of the vehicle. Commercial entry good for 7 days as long as its the same passenger group.
$200.00
Commercial Entrance - Van
A commercial tour is defined as persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced or sold for leisure recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provisions of the service. Entrance fees are charges based on the seating capacity of the vehicle. Commercial entry good for 7 days as long as its the same passenger group.
$125.00

Entrance Passes

Annual Entrance - Park
The Everglades Annual Pass admits the pass holder, passenger on one motorcycle, or passengers of a single vehicle or vessel to Everglades National Park.
$70.00

3-Day Weather Forecast

Wednesday, Feb 4

Sunny

Sunny

High: 57.6°F | Low: 54.9°F

Humidity: 85%

Wind: 10.3 mph

Rain Chance: 0%

UV Index: 0.9

Sunrise: 07:04 AM

Sunset: 06:10 PM

Moon: Waning Gibbous (95%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 52.9°F

Cloud Cover: 0%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Thursday, Feb 5

Patchy rain nearby

Patchy rain nearby

High: 60.3°F | Low: 54.9°F

Humidity: 90%

Wind: 30.4 mph

Rain Chance: 85%

UV Index: 1.4

Sunrise: 07:04 AM

Sunset: 06:11 PM

Moon: Waning Gibbous (89%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 55.5°F

Cloud Cover: 85%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Friday, Feb 6

Sunny

Sunny

High: 56.5°F | Low: 50.7°F

Humidity: 81%

Wind: 20.4 mph

Rain Chance: 0%

UV Index: 1.5

Sunrise: 07:03 AM

Sunset: 06:12 PM

Moon: Waning Gibbous (82%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 50°F

Cloud Cover: 0%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Park Alerts

Adverse Weather Conditions Danger
Multiple weather advisories have been issued for waters in Everglades National Park. A strong cold front combined with cold water is creating hazardous marine conditions. Boaters should avoid being on the water. Wind speeds of up to 45 knots are expected.
Click the 'View all alerts' button below for additional park updates Park Closure
Be sure to review the ALERT page before and during your visit for additional, up-to-date information on closures, cautions, and other current park conditions.

More Info

Gulf Coast Visitor Center - under construction Information
The new Marjory Stoneman Douglas Visitor Center and surrounding site are under construction until Fall 2025. Park Rangers can be found in the Everglades Adventures Visitor Center located at 611 Collier Ave in Everglades City. (786) 758-0635
Gulf Coast canoe/kayak launch Information
Alternate launch sites for backcountry access include the Rod & Gun Club, Outdoor Resorts of Chokoloskee, and Chokoloskee Island Park and Marina. Fees at these sites vary. For more information on tours and local conditions, call (786) 758-0635.
Scheduled power outage - Flamingo District Information
On Monday, August 4, the power in Flamingo will be off for scheduled maintenance. The Guy Bradley Visitor Center will be open from 9 am to 5 pm. The Marina Store, Lodge, and Restaurant will close in the morning and reopen when power is restored.
Gulf Coast Visitor Center - under construction Information
The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Visitor Center is closed due to construction and anticipated to open winter 2026. The adjacent Gulf Coast kayak launch is open for use. Park Rangers can be found onsite or by calling (786) 758-0635
Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail closed for construction until January 2026 Park Closure
The Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk trail, tower and parking lot will be closed for a replacement project until January 2026. This is to replace aging boardwalk and tower. The road remains open as a turnaround.
Paurotis Pond is closed for wading bird nesting season until Summer 2025 Park Closure
Paurotis Pond, including the boat launch, the pond, and the area beyond the parking area adjacent to the pond, is closed until further notice to limit human disturbance to nesting wading birds like Great Egrets. The parking lot remains open for viewing.
Closure of West Side of Palm Key Information
An area within 150 feet of the western shoreline of Palm Key has been closed effective immediately. The closure is to protect the nesting area of the Roseate Spoonbill and prevent nesting disturbance from boating activity.

More Info

Roadwork may cause delays on US 41/Tamiami Trail Caution
Current roadwork is ongoing along the park's northern boundary on US Highway 41/Tamiami Trail to raise the road for Everglades Restoration benefits. Drivers may experience up to 15-minute delays and should watch for personnel, equipment and slow downs.
For entrance fees, we accept digital passes and credit/debit cards Information
Digital passes or credit/debit cards are the ONLY method of payment at all fee collection areas. Pre-paid digital passes are available online and may be purchased in advance.

More Info

Click on "view all alerts" below for important details on accessing the park Park Closure
Construction on Tamiami Trail may cause minor delays. If you have a scheduled tour, please plan accordingly. View all alerts for more updates on current conditions in the park.
Click on "view all alerts" below for important details on accessing the park Park Closure
Construction on Tamiami Trail may cause minor delays. If you have a scheduled tour, please plan accordingly. View all alerts for more updates on current conditions in the park.
Roadwork may cause delays on US 41/Tamiami Trail Caution
Current roadwork is ongoing along the park's northern boundary on US Highway 41/Tamiami Trail to raise the road for Everglades Restoration benefits. Drivers may experience up to 15-minute delays and should watch for personnel, equipment and slow downs.
Royal Palm area closure - Update Information
The Royal Palm area including the Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail will remain closed until at least Wednesday (9/28) for painting and other facilities updates. Recent heavy rain has delayed work and the area will reopen as soon as possible.
Portions of the Flamingo walk-in campground are under water.
Due to sustained heavy rains, portions of the Flamingo walk-in campground are under water. This will require some of the campsites to remain closed until water subsides.
Royal Palm Precautionary Boil Water Notice Caution
Due to a recent loss in water pressure, Royal Palm is under a precautionary boil water notice. It is advised that you bring plenty of water with you. The gift shop and vending machines at Royal Palm have bottled water for sale as well.
Gulf Coast canoe/kayak launch Information
Alternate launch sites for backcountry access include the Rod & Gun Club, Outdoor Resorts of Chokoloskee, and Chokoloskee Island Park and Marina. Fees at these sites vary. For more information on tours and local conditions, call (786) 758-0635.

More Info

Park Open During the Holidays Information
The park is open everyday, including Christmas and New Year's days. The week between Christmas and New Year is one of the busiest weeks in the park.
For entrance fees, we accept digital passes and credit/debit cards Information
Digital passes or credit/debit cards are the ONLY method of payment at all fee collection areas. Pre-paid digital passes are available online and may be purchased in advance.

More Info

Shark Valley Precautionary Boil Water Notice Information
Due to a recent loss in water pressure, Shark Valley is under a precautionary boil water notice. It is advised that you bring plenty of water with you, especially if you plan to bike the loop. The Tram Tours have bottled water for sale as well
Fish cleaning station at Flamingo is temporarily closed Information
The fish cleaning station at the Flamingo marina is closed from Dec. 1 for a few weeks, while we await a new part for the grinder.
Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail closed for replacement project until Fall 2025 Park Closure
The Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk trail, tower and parking lot will be closed for a replacement project until the fall. This is to replace aging infrastructure. The road remains open as a turnaround.
Prescribed Fire Operations - Temporary Area Restrictions Information
Temporary area restrictions are in place beginning January 29 for the Flamingo Campground (B & C Loops only), and the Coastal Prairie Trail for prescribed fire operations. Smoke may be present in the area. Area will reopen when managers deem it safe for reentry.

Park Events

(Everglades Institute) Everglades Experience: Guided Tour of Royal Palm, Nike Missile Site, and Pa-hay-okee

On this naturalist-led tour, guests travel through Everglades National Park in the Institute vehicle, beginning at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead, FL. The route includes stops at key locations like Royal Palm, the historic Nike Missile Site, and the scenic Pa-hay-okee Overlook. At each site, visitors enjoy a leisurely walk with interpretive talks, giving them the chance to spot Everglades wildlife like alligators and birds, while discovering the park’s unique natural treasures.

Location: Guests will meet their naturalist at the flagpole of the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center

Date: Sep 17, 2025 12:00am to Sep 17, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

(Everglades Institute) Everglades Immersion: Cypress Dome Wet Walk

Join a guided wet walk through sawgrass prairies and cypress domes on this two-hour adventure. You'll travel with your naturalist in the Institute vehicle to the walk site, where you’ll be immersed in the unique world of cypress domes and alligators, learning about the role of elevation and water flow in shaping this ecosystem. Search for fish, air plants, and other hidden wildlife in the cypress forest. Get ready to have fun and embrace the thrill of getting wet!

Location: Guests will meet their naturalist at the flagpole of the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center.

Date: Sep 17, 2025 12:00am to Sep 17, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Florida Bay Boat Tour (Flamingo)

Take one of our daily boat tours from the Flamingo Marina! You have the choice to explore the magnificent Everglades backcountry or the beautiful Florida Bay! Venture on the water as your naturalist highlights unique plant and animal life found here and outlines the rich history of Flamingo at Everglades National Park.

Backcountry tours depart at odd hours 9 am to 3 pm.

Florida Bay tours depart at even hours from 10 am to 4 pm.

Park Rangers are present on the 12 pm Florida Bay tour; all tours feature a naturalist.

Location: Meet in the Flamingo Marina.

Date: Nov 1, 2025 12:00am to Nov 1, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Backcountry Boat Tour (Flamingo)

Take one of our daily boat tours from the Flamingo Marina! You have the choice to explore the magnificent Everglades backcountry or the beautiful Florida Bay! Venture on the water as your naturalist highlights unique plant and animal life found here and outlines the rich history of Flamingo at Everglades National Park.

Backcountry tours depart at odd hours 9 am to 3 pm.

Florida Bay tours depart at even hours from 10 am to 4 pm.

Park Rangers are present on the 12 pm Florida Bay tour; all tours feature a naturalist.

Location: Meet in the Flamingo Marina.

Date: Nov 1, 2025 12:00am to Nov 1, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

(Royal Palm) - Nike Missile Site Tour

Everglades National Park houses one of the best preserved relics of the Cold War in Florida, a historic Nike Hercules missile site called "Alpha Battery" or "HM69". 

Step into the Cold War for a tour of the historic Nike Missile Site, HM69. See an actual missile and many of the original support buildings. Guided tours begin at the Daniel Beard Center and are conducted most afternoons between December and March. Accessible, 0.7 miles walking, 1.5 hours total duration.

Location: Nike Missile Site Launch Area. Tour begins at the Daniel Beard Center on Research Road. Request directions at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center.

Date: Nov 15, 2025 12:00am to Nov 15, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Birding Bonanza (Flamingo)

Grab your binoculars and discover the incredible birds of Flamingo. From wading shorebirds to colorful songbirds, learn to identify and appreciate the park’s feathered residents. Beginner birders welcome! Cameras, binoculars, and insect protection are encouraged.

Location: Meet at the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo.

Date: Nov 22, 2025 12:00am to Nov 22, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Ranger's Choice! (in Flamingo)

Every day brings a new adventure with Ranger’s Choice. Join us for an engaging program where our rangers share their favorite stories, wildlife, or hidden gems of the Everglades. Ask a park ranger about today’s topics.

Location: Meet at the Guy Bradley Visitor Center.

Date: Nov 22, 2025 12:00am to Nov 22, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Paddling in Paradise (Flamingo)

On this three-hour program on Florida Bay, you will be guided by park rangers through the mangrove estuaries and marine ecosystem. You will get opportunities to experience the Everglades wilderness and its diverse habitats, animals, and human history.

This trip can be extremely strenuous! Therefore, all participants are required to be at least 16 years old. Please consider your abilities and only sign up if you are physically fit and have prior kayaking experience.

Location: The Flamingo Marina (Florida Bay side) is located about 1 hour from the park entrance in Homestead.

Date: Nov 22, 2025 12:00am to Nov 22, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Journey Through Nine Mile Pond (Flamingo)

On this 3 hour program at Nine Mile Pond, you will be guided by park rangers through the sawgrass and mangroves. You will get opportunities to experience the Everglades wilderness and its diverse habitats, animals, human history, and the vital water of the “river of grass”.

This trip can be very strenuous! For this reason, all paddlers must be at least 12 years old. Please consider your abilities and only sign up if you are physically fit and have prior canoeing experience.

Location: Nine Mile Pond is located about 45 minutes from the Homestead entrance of the park. There are no restrooms or water available here.

Date: Nov 25, 2025 12:00am to Nov 25, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Evening Program (in Flamingo)

Experience the Everglades after dark with stories, wildlife, and natural history to discover a new side of Flamingo. Insect protection is strongly encouraged. Ask a park ranger for more details.

Date: Dec 2, 2025 12:00am to Dec 2, 2025 12:00am

Paid Event

Visitor Center & Contacts

📍 Physical Address:
40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034

🏤 Mailing Address:
40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034-6733

📞 Voice Phone: 3052427700

📞 Fax Phone: 3052427728

✉️ Email: ever_information@nps.gov

Park Location

👏 Fun Fact
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