DRY TORTUGAS
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 64,701 ACRES

EST. 01 04 1935

FLORIDA

Planning a Trip to
Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a spectacular marine park located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. It consists of seven small islands and the surrounding waters, and is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful coral reefs in the world. The park is renowned for its rich history, with the iconic Fort Jefferson, built in 1847, standing as an impressive symbol of the area's past. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and over 200 species of birds. Visitors can explore the area by snorkeling, kayaking, and camping, and can even take a ferry to the remote islands for a truly unique experience.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park depends largely on the season. During the spring, the weather is usually mild and the waters are calm, making it a great time to explore the park by boat. In the summer, the temperatures are warm and the park is at its busiest, with plenty of opportunities for water activities. Fall is a great time for bird watching, with the park’s plentiful avian population in full force. Winter is the best time to take in the park’s serene beauty and amazing views, as the crowds are fewer and the temperatures are cooler. No matter what season you visit, you’re sure to have a great time at Dry Tortugas National Park.

The best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park depends on what activities you plan to do. For snorkeling and swimming, April to October is the best time to visit as the water is warmer and the visibility is clearer. If you're looking for a peaceful beach day, the summer months are the best time to go. For bird watching, you can visit anytime, as the park is home to a variety of species. Fishing is best during the winter months when the water is cooler and calmer. For camping, spring and fall are the best times, as the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded.

OVERVIEW

Dry Tortugas National Park is a unique and breathtaking destination located 70 miles west of Key West. It is known for its rich history, abundant wildlife, and crystal-clear waters. The park is home to seven small islands, the Dry Tortugas, and the iconic Fort Jefferson. Visitors can explore the islands and take in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico from atop the fort’s walls. The best things about Dry Tortugas National Park are its diverse wildlife, amazing snorkeling and diving opportunities, and its untouched natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway or a chance to explore history, Dry Tortugas National Park promises an unforgettable experience.

WEATHER

Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, as well as its warm and humid weather. The average temperature year-round is in the mid-80s, with an average high of 86°F and an average low of 76°F. During the summer months, temperatures can peak at 90°F or higher. The park receives an average of 66 inches of rain per year, with most of it falling during the summer months. The humidity is typically high, and the ocean breezes provide relief from the heat.

The Dry Tortugas National Park is home to a unique and diverse ecology. The park is comprised of seven islands and the surrounding waters, and includes numerous coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove habitats. The islands provide a haven for a variety of species of birds, turtles, and fish, including the endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtle. The park is also home to a variety of species of coral, such as staghorn, elkhorn, and finger coral, as well as a variety of sponges and other invertebrates. Additionally, the park is home to a variety of sea mammals, including the West Indian Manatee and the Bottlenose Dolphin. The park is a key piece of the fragile marine ecosystem of the Florida Keys and provides a safe haven for a wide variety of species.

GEAR

1. Swimwear: Choose comfortable swimwear that will protect you from the sun and any potential hazards.
2. Snorkel gear: Bring a snorkel mask, snorkel and fins to explore the underwater world of the Dry Tortugas National Park.
3. Scuba gear: Bring your scuba gear if you plan on taking a dive in the park's clear waters.
4. Sunscreen: Make sure to use a strong SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
5. Water shoes: Wear water shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks and other underwater hazards.
6. Underwater camera: Capture the beauty of the underwater world with an underwater camera.
7. Dry bag: Bring a dry bag to keep your belongings safe from the water.
8. Hat: Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off your face.
9. Towel: Bring a towel for drying off after a swim or a dive.
10. Waterproof watch: Wear a waterproof watch to keep track of time while you explore the underwater world.

At Dry Tortugas National Park, camping is a great way to explore the park and its natural beauty. Here is a list of the top 10 gear you should bring when camping at the park:
1. Tent: Make sure to bring a tent that is appropriate for the climate and environment.
2. Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag that is warm enough for the climate and comfortable enough to sleep in.
3. Camping Stove: A camping stove is essential for cooking while camping.
4. Flashlight: A flashlight will come in handy when exploring the park at night.
5. Water: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated while camping.
6. First Aid Kit: You never know what might happen while camping, so a first aid kit is essential.
7. Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun's rays with a good sunscreen.
8. Insect Repellant: Keep the bugs away with a good insect repellant.
9. Binoculars: Binoculars are great for spotting wildlife and far away views.
10. Cooler: A cooler will help keep your food and drinks cold during your camping trip.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Dry Tortugas National Park is a unique and fascinating park located in the Florida Keys. The park was established in 1992 and encompasses seven small islands and nearly 100,000 acres of crystal clear waters. The park is best known for its historic Fort Jefferson, which was built in the 1830s to protect the United States from foreign ships. The Dry Tortugas are also a popular destination for snorkeling and bird watching, as they are home to hundreds of species of birds and sea life. The Dry Tortugas are also home to several shipwrecks, making them a popular destination for scuba divers and history buffs.

The Dry Tortugas National Park is home to some legendary stories of the sea. One of the most popular is the story of the treasure of the Dry Tortugas. According to legend, a Spanish galleon laden with treasure was sunk in the waters off the Dry Tortugas and has yet to be recovered. This has been a source of fascination for adventurers and treasure hunters ever since. Another famous story of the Dry Tortugas is that of the mysterious ghost ship, the USS Radford, which is said to have been spotted off the coast of the Dry Tortugas but has never been seen again. These legendary stories have made the Dry Tortugas a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the mysteries of the sea.

RECOMMENDED

1. Take a ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park to experience the remote setting of this unique park.
2. Go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the reefs and wrecks in the park's clear waters.
3. Visit Fort Jefferson, the massive 19th-century fort located in the park, to learn its history and explore its grounds.
4. Participate in a ranger-led program to gain a deeper understanding of the park's wildlife and history.
5. Go bird-watching to observe the many species of birds that call the park home.
6. Enjoy a picnic on one of the beaches in the park for a relaxing lunch.
7. Go fishing in the waters surrounding the park to catch a variety of fish.
8. Explore the park's many trails and see the various wildlife and plants that inhabit the area.
9. Take a sunset cruise around the park to witness the picturesque views of the sunset.
10. Camp overnight in the park to experience the beauty of the night sky.

1. Sunscreen: The sun can be quite intense in the Dry Tortugas National Park, so make sure you have plenty of sunscreen.

2. Hat: Protect your head and face from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat.

3. Sunglasses: Keep the sun out of your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses.

4. Waterproof clothing: Stay dry and comfortable in the water with a waterproof jacket and pants.

5. Water shoes: Invest in a pair of water shoes for walking through the shallow waters of the Dry Tortugas.

6. Camera: Capture the beauty of the park with a quality camera and plenty of memory cards.

7. Snacks: Bring along snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.

8. Binoculars: Get a closer look at the wildlife with a pair of binoculars.

9. Flashlight: Be prepared for any nighttime adventures with a quality flashlight.

10. Bug spray: Keep the bugs away with an effective bug spray.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

1. Explore Fort Jefferson: This 19th-century fort is the centerpiece of Dry Tortugas National Park and is a must-see for any visitor.
2. Take a boat tour: Book a boat tour to explore the islands and get close to the wildlife.
3. Go snorkeling: The clear waters of the Tortugas are perfect for snorkeling, with plenty of colorful fish and coral.
4. Go camping: Spend the night in the park and set up camp on one of the islands.
5. Watch the sunset: Catch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
6. Birdwatch: There are over 200 species of birds that call the Dry Tortugas their home.
7. Go kayaking: Hop in a kayak and explore the shallow waters around the islands.
8. Visit the lighthouse: Climb the steps to the top of the lighthouse for an incredible view of the Tortugas.
9. Take a ferry: Hop on the Yankee Freedom III ferry for a scenic ride to the islands.
10. Go fishing: Cast a line and see what you can catch!

Dry Tortugas National Park is home to some of the best campgrounds in the U.S. Here are the top 10 campsites to check out on your next visit:

1. Garden Key Campground,

2. Loggerhead Key Campground,

3. Long Key Campground,

4. Fort Jefferson Campground,

5. Bush Key Campground,

6. Hospital Key Campground,

7. East Key Campground,

8. Bird Key Campground,

9. Middle Key Campground

10. North Key Campground.

Each of these campsites offer stunning views of the park and are perfect for camping and exploring.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Dry Tortugas National Park is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Every year, over 60,000 people visit the park to explore the unique history and natural beauty of the area. The park is busiest during the summer months, with nearly 30,000 visitors in June, July and August. The park is also popular in the spring and fall, with over 20,000 visitors in April, May, September and October. During the winter months, the park is less busy, with an average of 10,000 visitors in November, December and January. No matter when you visit, you can expect to find a unique experience in Dry Tortugas National Park.