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?

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

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

Pets are not permitted; service animals are allowed

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

Explore a wreck-turned-reef in 4-6 feet of water—propeller and bricks now home to lobster and coral.

Dock House—Fort Jefferson's sole checkpoint. Weather, tides, fees, information, boat permits, accessible changing rooms (24/7).

Stone prison cell on Fort Jefferson's second tier where Lincoln conspirator Dr. Mudd served his sentence.

46-square-mile no-take coral preserve. Ferry-only from Key West; pristine reefs and tropical fish.

Colossal brick fort from Civil War era. Explore prison cells and ramparts where history was made.

The shadowed Civil War prison cell where Dr. Mudd was confined. Dante's grim inscription marks the doorway entrance.

Shallow reef with tropical fish, corals, and lobsters. Protected ecosystem—observe carefully, don't touch.

Historic lighthouse crowns this island; shipwrecks and coral reefs thrive below. Day use only.

Snorkel submerged 1800s Navy pier pilings encrusted with coral and patrolled by grouper and tarpon.

An 80-foot iron lighthouse crowning Fort Jefferson, built 1876 and restored 2022—a maritime beacon unique among national parks.

Lagoon water launch for kayaks and dinghies. Direct access to Little Africa's snorkeling reefs.

261-foot iron wreck at 22ft depth—preserved by corrosion resistance. Thriving with coral and reef fish after 119 years.

Daily ferry to Dry Tortugas (10am-3pm) with onboard snorkel gear rental and dock picnic facilities.