Pets are not permitted; service animals are allowed

Dry Tortugas National Park Planning Guide & Strategy

Q: Is there WiFi or cell service at Dry Tortugas?

Cell service is extremely limited; there is no public WiFi in the park

Q: Can I drive to Dry Tortugas?

No; the park is an island. Access is by ferry or seaplane from Key West

Q: What should I pack for a Dry Tortugas visit?

Water, sun protection, snacks, snorkeling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, light clothing

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Overview

About This Park

Open year-round. No park entry fee; transportation to Dry Tortugas is your cost. Main Rule: ferry or seaplane in advance, pack water and sun protection; camping permits required for Garden Key.

Why Visit

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote marine sanctuary reachable only by boat or air. It centers on Garden Key, Fort Jefferson, and surrounding reefs, offering focused, controlled access to a fragile island ecosystem. The park demands disciplined planning: there are no roads, minimal services, and strict camping permits. Visitors contribute to preservation by packing out waste, respecting nesting birds, and keeping a safe distance from marine life; its isolation magnifies the importance of preparation and adherence to regulations.

Highlights

Top Things to Do

• Tour Fort Jefferson; • Snorkel around Garden Key reefs; • Observe Loggerhead and Green sea turtle nesting areas (seasonal)

Family Friendly

Plan around transport schedules; no on-site lodging; supervision for children near water; camping may not suit all ages

Accessibility

Facilities limited; main site on Garden Key is reachable by boat/air; no extensive paved trails noted

Photography Tips

Position yourself to respect ferry traffic; avoid blocking movement; use wide-angle reef perspectives

Best Time to Visit

December–April for weather and visibility; plan around ferry/seaplane schedules

Nearby Services

Key West provides gas, food, lodging, and transport options; limited services on Dry Tortugas itself

Tips & Advice

Book ferry/seaplane well in advance
Pack ample water and snacks
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Expect limited on-site amenities
Obtain camping permits in advance

Park Strategy

The 3-Day Plan

Day 1: Garden Key Fort Jefferson and reef snorkeling; Day 2: Bush Key bird activity and Loggerhead Key turtle areas; Day 3: Return to Key West

Traffic Beater

There is no on-site parking; plan to depart from Key West on morning ferries/seaplanes; weather can affect schedules

Where to Sleep

IN-park lodging not available; basecamp in Key West is recommended for comfort; Garden Key camping requires advance permits

The Timing

December–April peaks; May and November shoulder; June–August hottest and most humid

Details

When to Visit

Peak Season

December through April

Shoulder Season

May and November

Winter

Open year-round; winter offers comfortable weather

Road Openings

Not applicable—the park has no roads

Getting There & Around

Nearest Airports

Key West International Airport (EYW) is the closest major airport; ferry or seaplane from Key West to Garden Key

Driving Distances

Not applicable; access by ferry or seaplane from Key West

Park Entrances

Key West ferry dock and Key West Seaplane Base

Shuttle Services

No shuttle system; walkable island area once ashore

Reservations Required

Backcountry camping permits required in advance; no vehicle entry permits due to island setting

Parking

No on-island parking; most visitors arrive by ferry or seaplane and park in Key West beforehand

Where to Stay

In-Park Lodging

No in-park lodging; Key West offers lodging options

Campgrounds

Garden Key permits for primitive campsites; camping available only on Garden Key with advance approval

Gateway Towns

Key West, Florida

Safety Information

Bear Country

Bears not present; marine hazards dominate; stay hydrated and watch for jellyfish and sharks

Weather Safety

Hot, humid, intense sun; afternoon showers possible; remote location limits medical response

Altitude

Near sea level; minimal elevation changes

Leave No Trace

Pack out all trash; remove waste; stay on designated areas; avoid touching coral and wildlife

Permits Needed

Backcountry camping permits required in advance

Wildlife

Wildlife Overview

Marine life including sharks and jellyfish; seabirds; sea turtles; coral reefs

Where to See Wildlife

Reefs around Garden Key for marine life; Bush Key for birdwatching; Loggerhead Key for turtle activity (seasonal)

Wildlife Safety

Maintain distance from wildlife; avoid touching corals or animals; follow dive flags and park regulations

Bear Spray Rentals

Not applicable; bears not present

Weather & What to Bring

Weather Averages

Tropical maritime climate; warm year-round with humidity

Precipitation

Seasonal showers; tropical storm activity possible; rainfall variability

Essential Gear

Water, sunscreen (reef-safe), hat, sturdy footwear, snorkeling gear, snacks

Clothing

Light, breathable clothing; sun protection; quick-dry layers; sandals or reef-safe footwear

Park Regions

Garden Key

Fort Jefferson (massive 19th-century fortress) and reef-entry zones

Bush Key

Seabird nesting habitat; restricted access during nesting season

Loggerhead Key

Turtle nesting areas (seasonal); remote reef viewing

Outer Reefs Zone

Marine life viewing; snorkeling around surrounding reefs

FAQs

Do I need a camping permit for Garden Key?

Yes; camping permits are required in advance and handled through the park/concessioner

Is there WiFi or cell service at Dry Tortugas?

Can I drive to Dry Tortugas?

Are pets allowed?

What should I pack for a Dry Tortugas visit?

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Dry Tortugas National Park