Visited National Parks Map

Dry Tortugas National Park sits almost 70 miles west of Key West, protecting about 100 square miles of mostly open water, seven small islands, coral reefs, shipwrecks, bird habitat, and Fort Jefferson. The fort, located on Garden Key, is one of the largest 19th-century masonry forts in the Americas and gives the park a rare combination of military history, remote island scenery, snorkeling, and night-sky viewing.

Most visitors arrive by the Yankee Freedom ferry or seaplane; private boats are possible but require careful planning. A day trip usually includes the Fort Jefferson tour, beach time, moat-wall views, swimming, and snorkeling around Garden Key. Campers get the best sunsets and stars, but must bring nearly everything and prepare for limited services. The park is ideal for history buffs, snorkelers, birders, photographers, couples, and families comfortable with a long boat day.

NPS lists a $15 per-person entrance fee for visitors 16 and older, good for seven days. Ferry tickets include park entrance but not camping; private boaters and private seaplane visitors should buy a digital pass in advance, and camping is paid through Recreation.gov Scan & Pay. There is no cell service or Wi-Fi, so download passes and the Recreation.gov app before leaving Key West.

Winter and spring often bring more comfortable weather; summer and hurricane season require extra attention to marine forecasts. Seasickness medication, sun protection, water, food, and reef-safe behavior matter. Pair a visit with Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor, the Florida Keys, or a South Florida national parks trip including Everglades and Biscayne.

Visitor Tip: Book ferry or seaplane seats before arranging the rest of your Key West itinerary. If camping, confirm transport, download payment tools, and pack as if no store exists, because none does.

• NPS verified distance from Key West, access only by boat or seaplane, Fort Jefferson significance, activities, entrance fee, ferry inclusion, camping fees, and lack of connectivity.
• Independent sources were used for South Florida itinerary context and historical/geographic background.