Visited National Parks Map

Everglades National Park protects 1.5 million acres of South Florida wetland, forest, and marine habitat and was established in 1947 as the first national park created for biodiversity. It is not one single swamp stop: visitors choose among the Homestead/Florida City entrance, Royal Palm and Anhinga Trail, Flamingo and Florida Bay, Shark Valley, and the Gulf Coast area. Wildlife watching, paddling, biking, ranger programs, birding, and boat tours are the main reasons to visit.

First-timers should not miss the Anhinga Trail for close alligator and wading-bird viewing, Shark Valley for biking or tram tours, and Flamingo for canoeing, kayaking, crocodile and manatee habitat, and Florida Bay scenery. The park is best for families, birders, paddlers, photographers, naturalists, and travelers combining Miami or the Keys with national parks. A half day can cover one district; two days are better for Shark Valley plus the Homestead-to-Flamingo corridor.

Everglades is open 24 hours daily, though visitor-center and concession hours vary. NPS lists a $35 private-vehicle pass, $30 motorcycle pass, and $20 per-person pass, and the park is cashless. Non-U.S. residents age 16 and older may owe an additional fee unless admitted with an eligible annual or America the Beautiful pass, so international visitors should verify current rules.

The dry season, roughly winter into spring, is generally best for wildlife viewing and lower mosquito pressure. Wet season from May through November brings heat, storms, mosquitoes, and changing safety considerations, but also lush landscapes. Nearby pairings include Biscayne National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, Dry Tortugas via Key West, and Miami.

Visitor Tip: Pick your entrance based on what you want to do; Shark Valley, Royal Palm, Flamingo, and Gulf Coast are not interchangeable quick stops. Bring mosquito protection and check seasonal safety guidance before visiting in summer.

• NPS verified acreage, biodiversity designation, major habitats, visitor activities, wet-season guidance, safety concerns, entrance fees, and cashless policy.
• Independent sources were used for route-planning context across South Florida parks.