Dry Tortugas National Park Guide

QUICK GLANCE

Location: Island 70 miles off the coast of Florida in the Gulf of America

Time needed (minimum noted): 1 day

When to Visit: December-May

Activities: Camping, birdwatching, historic architecture, Snorkeling, stargazing, swimming

Advanced Reservations Required: Yes

Lodging Style: Camping, budget, mid-range, and luxury

Where to Stay: In the Park (Camping), Key West

Fixed Costs: Transportation to Park and Park Entrance Fee

Transportation: Sea plane or ferry to Park; rideshare or walking in Key West

Road Trip Option: Yes

Accessible Activities: Limited

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INTRODUCTION

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the more remote Parks in the United States (US) National Park system.  The Park offers historic architecture, snorkeling, beach camping, and a relatively untouched marine ecosystem. This guide explains why you should visit Dry Tortugas, how to get there, what to see and do, and how best to plan your time in this extraordinary destination nearly 70 miles offshore of Key West, Florida

WHY GO

A visit to Dry Tortuga is a combination of living history and serene natural beauty.  This National Park centers on Fort Jefferson, located on Garden Key, which is a large 19th century coastal fort comprised of over 16 million bricks. The Fort is one of the largest masonry structures in the US. The remote location of the Park means turquois blue Caribbean waters and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.  The Park also offers viewing of endangered sooty terns, and is the only location in the continental US where the birds’ nest. The Park’s unique blend of historical significance, remote location, birdwatching, and marine activities make this an exciting Park to visit.  The remote location of the Park makes planning ahead critical.

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LOCATION

Dry Tortugas National Park is located nearly 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West, Florida, in the Gulf of America, and comprised of seven small islands stretched across ~100 square miles.  There are no roads or bridges connecting the Park to the mainland.  The only way to access the Park is by seaplane or boat.  The only public access to the Park is at Garden Key (where Fort Jefferson is located).  The most common departure is from the Key West Ferry Terminal with Yankee Freedom, the company that currently holds the contract to provide ferry service to the Park.

TIME NEEDED

You needed a minimum of one day to visit Dry Tortugas.  Whether you arrive via seaplane or ferry you will have a few hours to explore the Fort, snorkel, and swim.  You will not be able to take in sunset or sunrise on a one-day trip due to Ferry arrival and departure times.

WHEN TO VISIT

The best time to visit is December through May.  The park is open every day of the year.  Hurricane season runs June-November.  Bird migration primarily runs March through May, but sooty tern nesting begins as early as mid-January.

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BEST THINGS TO DO & MUST SEE

Historic Fort Jefferson

One of the most striking features of the park, this 19th-century coastal fortress offers self-guided and ranger talks on military history.  Walk the walls of the Fort for 360 degree views.

 

Snorkeling & Diving

Crystal Caribbean waters around the Fort teem with tropical fish, coral, and even shipwreck sites.

 

Beaches & Swimming

Gentle sandy beaches invite swimming in warm Gulf waters just offshore.

 

Camping / Primitive Island Experience

Garden Key’s campground is one of the few in the U.S. National Park System where you can sleep under the stars with no facilities except what you bring.

 

Birdwatching & Wildlife

Hundreds of bird species use the park during migration, and seabirds nest on the islands seasonally.

ACCESSIBLE ACTIVITIES

Fort Jefferson: Some lower-level areas are accessible, though uneven ground around historic structures will likely challenge mobility needs or those using wheelchairs

Ferry Access: The Yankee Freedom ferry is ADA compliant and the crew can offer assistance for mobility needs.


Water Activities: Snorkeling and swimming are low-impact, but accessing the water will require assistance.

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LODGING STYLE AND WHERE TO STAY

Camping

Garden Key Campground offers primitive camping (bring ALL supplies, no fresh water).  Reservation are required

 

Budget to Luxury lodging options are available in Key West.

 

Key West, Florida is the closest major city to Dry Tortugas and is an ideal place to stay due to early morning ferry or flight departures for day trips.

TRANSPORTATION

If you are flying directly into Key West, then I recommend using uber and walking. Parking is very limited in central/downtown Key West.

 

Rental Car: Recommended to reach Key West from mainland Florida or airport.
Ferry: Yankee Freedom departs daily from Key West.
Seaplane: Shorter trip to reach the Park offering more time in the Park, but very expensive.

Private Boat: If you have a private boat, you can bring it into park waters.

 

See the Dry Tortugas National Park website for additional details on entering the Park with your own boat and ferry/seaplane transportation options.

ROAD TRIP OPTION

Dry Tortugas can be part of a Florida Keys road trip—drive the Overseas Highway through the Keys, spend several days exploring Key West, then take the ferry to Dry Tortugas. Add nearby Everglades and Biscayne National Parks for a broader Florida adventure.

TIPS

Book Early: Ferry, seaplane, and camping space fill months in advance.  In addition to booking months in advance, opt for the first seaplane or ferry out. Weather can change quickly and opting for the journey out early in the morning may be the difference between being able to visit and not.

 

Bring Supplies: There are NO restaurants, supplies, or fresh water on Garden Key—pack everything you need.

 

Snorkel Gear: The Ferry may rent/provide snorkel gear; check ahead.

 

Shade & Sun Protection: There is limited shade on Garden Key—bring hats and sunscreen. We were there in May and the heat and humidity were sweltering. There is also very little breeze inside the Fort where the very limited shade exists.

 

Check Weather: The Gulf can be rough; strong winds and seas affect schedules.  We initially tried to visit Dry Tortugas in January and weather thwarted our plans.  Out of all the Parks to have to go back to, Key West made for a pretty nice host city.

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GO FURTHER

If you want an immersive experience at the Fort and enjoy camping, then plan to spend the night.  For this will need two days and one night.  Overnight camping on Garden Key lets you experience night skies, paddling, solitude, and early-morning marine life.