Just 70 miles off the coast of Key West lies a special group of islands protected by Dry Tortugas National Park.
Daily ferry and seaplane services provide transportation to Garden Key, the most popular island. It’s known for Fort Jefferson, an unfinished Civil War-era fort and prison.
Surrounding Garden Key are seven other islands, including Loggerhead Key and its lighthouse. There’s also Bush Key, a crucial bird sanctuary.
While it is difficult to get to, visiting Dry Tortugas is an adventure you won’t soon forget.
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Dry Tortugas National Park Overview
Entrance Fee: $15 per person (valid for 7 days). Ferry tickets include this charge.
Established: January 4, 1935 (as Fort Jefferson National Monument)
Location: Florida
Nearby Communities: Key West
Park Size: 64,701.22 acres (261.84 km²)
Reservations: While reservations are not required to enter the park, they are required for certain activities, such as camping.
Visitor Centers: A small visitor center is located inside Fort Jefferson on Garden Key. Park rangers are also present at the Eco-Discovery Center in Key West.
Unique Things to Do at Dry Tortugas National Park
Camping on Garden Key is one of the best ways to experience Dry Tortugas National Park.
Kayaking to Loggerhead Key is an excellent activity if you have the time. There’s a picturesque lighthouse on the island, visible from Garden Key.
Tours of Fort Jefferson are included with your ferry ticket. Explore the grounds with a knowledgeable guide to learn about the history, including the stories of Dr. Samuel Mudd, the fort’s most famous prisoner.
Visit in the summer months to have the best water temperatures and visibility for snorkeling.
Plan Your Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park
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How to Get to Dry Tortugas National Park
The closest airports to Dry Tortugas National Park are Key West International Airport (EYW), Miami International Airport (MIA), and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
Key West and Miami are the closest cities to Dry Tortugas National Park.
Once you arrive in the Florida Keys, there are only two ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park: via seaplane or via ferry.
Key West Seaplane is the authorized concessionaire to fly visitors to Garden Key.
Ferry services are provided by Yankee Freedom.
You can also dock a personal boat (permits required) or hire other charters and tours.
Where to Stay Near Dry Tortugas National Park
Camping in the Park: Garden Key
Camping Near the Park: Sun Outdoors Sugarloaf Key, Sun Outdoors Marathon
Lodging Near the Park: Truman Hotel, Blue Marlin Motel, The Laureate, The Capitana, Opal Key Resort, Douglas House, Margaritaville Beach House, Seashell Motel & Hostel
There are no lodges within Dry Tortugas National Park.
Best Time to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
Spring: Visit in spring for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. Early spring is best to beat the spring break crowds.
Summer: The hottest time of year, this is also the best time for snorkeling and other water activities. This is by far the most popular time to visit. Don’t forget that hurricane season begins in June.
Fall: This is another great time to visit for milder temperatures. Like in summer, hurricane season should be a consideration.
Winter: Winter is the best time of year to avoid crowds. There is also a smaller chance of rain and storms. However, it is the windiest time of year, which is bad for snorkeling and can lead to ferry cancelations.
Dry Tortugas National Park Map
Dry Tortugas National Park Weather
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Is Dry Tortugas National Park Dog Friendly?
You may bring pets to Dry Tortugas National Park. However, there are some restricted areas.
Pets are allowed on Garden Key only. They are not allowed inside Fort Jefferson.
When visiting with your pet, they are required to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Owners must promptly dispose of all pet waste. Pets may not be left unattended at any time.
All trash must be removed from Dry Tortugas by the visitors, including all pet waste.
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