Everglades

About Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a vast and uniquely subtropical wilderness located in southern Florida. Often described as a “river of grass”, the park protects an enormous wetland ecosystem made up of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, hardwood hammocks, coastal estuaries, and slow-moving waterways.

Rather than dramatic peaks or sweeping overlooks, the Everglades is defined by its subtle beauty. Wildlife sightings such as alligators, birds, turtles, and manatees are often the highlight, along with quiet boardwalks, scenic drives, and waterways that feel completely wild.

The park is immense and spread out, with several distinct areas that offer many different experiences.

What Makes Everglades National Park Worth Visiting?

Anhinga in Shark Valley

If you enjoy wildlife, wetlands, and unique ecosystems then this park is perfect for you!

Everglades is particularly worth visiting if:

You enjoy wildlife viewing and birdwatching
You want to experience a landscape unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
You’re interested in ecosystems and conservation
You enjoy boardwalks, paddling, or scenic drives rather than long hikes

The Everglades may not appeal to travelers seeking traditional hiking or dramatic vistas, but it offers one of the most biologically rich and important landscapes in North America.

How Long Should I Spend in Everglades National Park?

Because of its size and layout, the Everglades can be best seen with careful planning and more time. I would recommend one day to see a few highlights of the park, but to really explore the park, I recommend 2 full days.

When Should I Visit Everglades National Park?

The best season to visit is the dry season (December-April), due to the cooler temperatures, fewer mosquitos, and better wildlife viewing. I also recommend getting an early start to your day for cooler temperatures and better chances to see wildlife.

What Are the Highlights of Everglades National Park?

Alligator in Shark Valley

Shark Valley: A 15-mile paved loop for biking, with plenty of alligators to see
Anhinga Trail: One of the best wildlife-viewing trails in the park
Flamingo: Coastal mangroves, kayaking, and boat tours
Ten Thousand Islands: Mangrove estuaries and marine wildlife
Scenic Drives: Easy access to vast wetland views
Airboat Tours: Offered outside the park, one of the best ways to see the park

Getting to Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park has multiple entrances, each offering different experiences.

Main Entrances:

Shark Valley Entrance: Closest to Miami
Homestead / Royal Palm Entrance: Access to Anhinga Trail
Gulf Coast Entrance (Everglades City): Access to Ten Thousand Islands

Nearest Airports

Miami International Airport (MIA)
Fort-Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

Park Fees and Passes

Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 annual pass for all national parks

Where to Stay Near Everglades National Park

In the Park

There are two options for camping in the park.

Flamingo Campground: Located in the southernmost point in the park
Long Pine Campground: Open seasonally November-May, near the Homestead entrance

There are also a few options for lodging.

Flamingo Lodge: A new lodge offering accommodations, located in the southernmost point in the park
Houseboats: Available to rent on Whitewater Bay, located in the marina at Flamingo
Glamping: Rent safari-style tents with fans and electricity, with views of Florida Bay