The landscape of southwest Florida is very diverse. There are tropical islands, known as keys, swampy everglades, where alligators rule, and vibrant modern cities like Naples. Angling, exploring, snorkeling and birding are among the favorite outdoor pastimes of southwest Florida visitors. State and national parks in the area offer a variety of camping opportunities for enthusiasts.
Dry Tortugas National Park lies almost 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The Dry Tortugas are a cluster of seven small islands made up of old coral reefs and sand bars. In the mid-19th century, the United States built Fort Jefferson to protect the valuable shipping channels that lie between the islands and the Florida mainland. The name, Dry Tortugas, comes from the fact that no fresh water was available on the islands. Soldiers stationed at the fort would often resort to eating turtles (tortugas in Spanish) for meat and sustenance. Only eight primitive campsites are available at the national park--on a first-come, first-served basis. An overflow camping area is provided if the regular campsites are occupied. All essentials, including water, must be packed in and out. Composting toilets are available; there is no trash service and no showers.
Dry Tortugas National Park
P.O. Box 6208
Key West, FL 33041
(305) 242-7711
nps.gov
Collier-Seminole State Park is full of tropical vegetation typical of the everglades; the Florida royal palm tree is quite common here. Rent a canoe at the park and explore the backwaters of Blackwater River, where you can catch both freshwater and saltwater fish. The campground offers 120 sites with water and electricity for either tent campers or RVs. Restrooms with showers are available as well as a screened-in activity building. A 6-mile nature trail winds through the vegetation and salt marshes within the park's boundaries. Guided ranger tours are available with reservations. Pets are welcome if they are leashed.
Collier-Seminole State Park
20200 East Tamiami Trail
Naples, FL 34114
(239) 394-3397
floridastateparks.org
Two drive-up campgrounds in Everglades National Park are open year round. Long Pine Key Campground has 108 drive-up sites for tent campers and RV campers. Flamingo Campground offers 234 drive-in sites: 55 sites have a view of the water and there are 64 walk-up sites. Picnic tables and fire grills are provided at both sites. Long Pine has no showers; however, Flamingo does provide cold showers. Water is available. Camping in Everglades National Park is fairly primitive. Bring your own food, bug repellent and essentials.
Everglades National Park
40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034-6733
(305) 242-7700
everglades.national-park.com
