Florida National Parks Map
Florida National Parks Map 2024
Florida has three national parks:
- Everglades National Park
- Biscayne National Park
- Dry Tortugas National Park
1. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is located in southern Florida and is the largest tropical wilderness of any kind in the United States. Established in 1947, it protects a unique ecosystem that includes freshwater marshes, mangrove forests, pine rocklands, and estuarine habitats. The park is renowned for its biodiversity, including rare and endangered species such as the American crocodile, West Indian manatee, and Florida panther.
Things to Do:
- Wildlife Viewing: Everglades National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, American crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, and numerous bird species. Visitors can observe wildlife from various vantage points, including boardwalks, observation towers, and boat tours.
- Airboat Tours: Experience the unique ecosystem of the Everglades by taking an airboat tour. These guided tours provide an exhilarating ride through the park’s shallow waters, offering opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close.
- Hiking and Biking: The park features a network of hiking trails and biking paths that allow visitors to explore different habitats, including freshwater marshes and hardwood hammocks. Popular trails include the Anhinga Trail, Gumbo Limbo Trail, and Shark Valley Trail.
- Boating and Kayaking: Explore the park’s waterways by boat or kayak, which provide access to mangrove forests, coastal prairies, and backcountry camping sites. Visitors can rent kayaks or join guided tours to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
- Ranger Programs: Participate in ranger-led programs and guided walks to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history. Programs cover topics such as wildlife, ecology, and conservation efforts in the Everglades.
- Camping: Everglades National Park offers opportunities for both frontcountry and backcountry camping. Frontcountry campgrounds provide basic amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables, while backcountry camping allows visitors to immerse themselves in the wilderness of the park.
- Fishing: Fishing is permitted in designated areas of the park, providing opportunities to catch freshwater and saltwater species such as largemouth bass, snook, and redfish. A Florida fishing license is required for recreational fishing in the park.
Weather:
Everglades National Park experiences a subtropical climate with two distinct seasons: the wet season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April).
- Wet Season: The wet season in the Everglades is characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures typically range from the 80s to 90s Fahrenheit (27-37°C), with humidity levels often exceeding 70%. Visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers and the possibility of flooding in certain areas.
- Dry Season: The dry season brings milder temperatures and lower humidity levels, making it a popular time to visit the park. Temperatures range from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-30°C), with cooler evenings. This season offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and outdoor activities.
2. Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is located in southern Florida, encompassing a diverse marine ecosystem within Biscayne Bay and the surrounding waters. Established in 1968, the park protects coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and a variety of marine life, making it an important habitat for biodiversity and conservation.
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling and Diving: Biscayne National Park is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and underwater marine life in designated snorkeling and diving areas.
- Boating and Kayaking: The park offers opportunities for boating and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse marine habitats, including mangrove forests, shallow flats, and secluded islands. Boat tours, rentals, and guided kayak tours are available within the park.
- Wildlife Viewing: Biscayne National Park is home to a variety of marine and bird species. Visitors can observe manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous bird species while exploring the park’s waters and islands.
- Fishing: Fishing is permitted in designated areas of Biscayne National Park. Anglers can fish from shore or boat for a variety of species, including snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish. A Florida fishing license is required for recreational fishing in the park.
- Guided Tours and Programs: Ranger-led programs, guided tours, and educational activities are available at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. These programs cover topics such as marine ecology, conservation, and the cultural history of the park.
Weather:
Biscayne National Park experiences a subtropical climate with two main seasons: the wet season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April).
- Wet Season: The wet season in Biscayne National Park is characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures typically range from the 80s to 90s Fahrenheit (27-37°C), with humidity levels often exceeding 70%. Visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers and the possibility of lightning storms.
- Dry Season: The dry season brings milder temperatures and lower humidity levels, making it a popular time to visit the park. Temperatures range from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-30°C), with cooler evenings. This season offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and outdoor activities.
3. Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico. The park is comprised of a group of seven small islands, including Garden Key, where the historic Fort Jefferson is located. Established in 1992, Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and historic fort.
Things to Do:
- Explore Fort Jefferson: The centerpiece of Dry Tortugas National Park is Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress. Visitors can explore the fort’s architecture, history, and exhibits, as well as participate in ranger-led tours to learn about its role in American history.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The park’s clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life in designated snorkeling and diving areas around the islands. Snorkeling gear is available for rent at the park.
- Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: Dry Tortugas National Park is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The islands provide important nesting and feeding grounds for a variety of bird species, including seabirds, shorebirds, and migratory birds. Visitors can observe birds and other wildlife while exploring the islands and surrounding waters.
- Camping: Camping is available on Garden Key, the main island within Dry Tortugas National Park. The campground offers tent camping sites with basic amenities, including picnic tables, grills, and restroom facilities. Camping permits are required and can be obtained through the park’s reservation system.
- Boating and Kayaking: Visitors can explore the park’s islands and waters by boat or kayak. Boating and kayaking provide access to mangrove forests, shallow flats, and scenic coastal landscapes within the park. Private boats and kayaks are welcome in the park, and guided kayak tours are available.
Weather:
Dry Tortugas National Park experiences a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The weather is generally mild in the winter months (December to February), with average temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). Summers (June to September) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C).
Florida National Parks Map
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