Natural Attraction
HM-69 Sentry Dog Kennels
At HM-69, you'll see the remains of a Cold War-era security structure—a small concrete building and enclosure that housed the Nike base's sentry dogs. Each base maintained about four specially trained dogs, each bonded to a single military police handler, tasked with patrolling the inner and outer fence lines every night without fail. The dogs were trained to attack anyone except their handler, and soldiers would take shelter if one escaped its leash. This small, preserved structure embodies the intense perimeter security of the nuclear age.
More details
- Attraction Type
- Cold War Historical Structure
- How To Get There
- Located within Everglades National Park at coordinates 25.3692°N, 80.6857°W (Flamingo area). Access via $35 vehicle entrance fee. Follow park roads to Historic Nike Missile Site. Paved access; wheelchair accessible.
Location
More at Everglades National Park
Joe River Chickee
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Mahogany Hammock
Largest mahogany tree in America. Tropical boardwalk, wheelchair accessible.
Mormon Key
Sandy beach at river mouth with Gulf views and excellent fishing. Tides drive the landscape—camp high, secure vessels.
North Nest Key
High-traffic island campsite with thin beach, vault toilet, dock. Powerboat only. Mandatory dive flag for snorkeling.
Mrazek Pond
Winter magnet for Roseate Spoonbills and Wood Storks. Most of the year: dabbling ducks and herons.
Old Ingraham Highway
Historic 10-mile gravel trail with Taylor Slough vistas and tree islands. Seasonal flooding; dry season recommended.
Recommended gear for Everglades National Park
Sources
- National Park Service
- YourNPGuide Editorial
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Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.