Photo: NPS Photo / Brett Seymour
Dry Tortugas National Park
Florida
Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.
Entrance fee
$15 per vehicle (7 days)
Campgrounds
See official site
Dogs allowed?
Varies, see below
Are dogs allowed at Dry Tortugas?
Pet rules at Dry Tortugas vary by area. Read the official pet policy on nps.gov before your visit. In most national parks, pets are limited to developed areas and must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Can you camp at Dry Tortugas?
Camping options vary; check the park's official site for current campground availability and backcountry permits.
Entrance fees
Entrance - Per Person: $15.00
The entrance fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15.00 per person and is good for 7 consecutive days. Any person 15 years old and under is exempt from paying an entrance fees (including international visitors). Ferry tickets include the cost of entrance to the park, but NOT camping fees. Seaplane will charge the entrance fee upon arrival. Plan to bring cash for each person aged 16-years of age and older. Private boaters may purchase a digital pass in advance or pay cash/check at Garden Key main dock.
Visiting several parks this year? The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entrance fees at all national parks.
Things to do
Weather
The climate in the Dry Tortugas is subtropical, which basically means that it has warm and tropical weather in the range of 60°F to 90°F. The two main seasons are the winter stormy season from December through March which is windier and sees rougher seas, and the summertime tropical storm season from June through November where there is a higher chance of isolated storms. During the summers it is hot and humid. During the winter the temperature is milder and drier.
FAQ: Dry Tortugas
›Are dogs allowed at Dry Tortugas?
Pets are generally allowed only in limited areas of Dry Tortugas. Check the official pet policy for exact rules.
›Can you camp at Dry Tortugas?
Camping options vary; check the park's official site for current campground availability and backcountry permits.
›How much does it cost to enter Dry Tortugas?
Entrance - Per Person: $15.00. The entrance fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15.00 per person and is good for 7 consecutive days. Any person 15 years old and under is exempt from paying an entrance fees (including international visitors). Ferry tickets include the cost of entrance to the park, but NOT camping fees. Seaplane will charge the entrance fee upon arrival. Plan to bring cash for each person aged 16-years of age and older. Private boaters may purchase a digital pass in advance or pay cash/check at Garden Key main dock.
›What states is Dry Tortugas National Park in?
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in Florida.