Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands. In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be: On a leash no longer than 6 feet Under control at all times Kept out of wildlife areas and water These rules are in place to protect: Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals) Fragile ecosystems Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here) If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Fakahatchee Strand State Park

137 Coastline Drive

Copeland

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We encourage visitors to contact businesses directly for current hours, availability, and services.

Fakahatchee Strand State Park

137 Coastline Drive | Copeland | Florida

Website

(239) 695-4593

Fakahatchee Strand State Park, the largest state park in Florida, is a remarkable and ecologically diverse natural preserve located in southwestern Florida, USA. Known as the “Amazon of North America,” this park is renowned for its extensive swamplands, cypress domes, and unique flora and fauna. If you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or birdwatcher, Fakahatchee Strand State Park offers an unforgettable experience.

Here’s what you need to know:

Overview

Fakahatchee Strand State Park covers around 80,000 acres and is one of the largest and least disturbed swamplands in Florida. It is recognized as an International Biosphere Reserve and offers a glimpse into the pristine beauty of Florida’s natural ecosystems. The park is especially famous for its abundant orchids and its role as a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife.

Things to Do

Orchid Viewing: Fakahatchee Strand is renowned for its impressive collection of native orchid species. The park hosts guided orchid tours during the blooming season (usually from December to April), allowing visitors to witness these stunning flowers in their natural habitat.

Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, otters, panthers, bobcats, and various bird species. The elusive Florida panther can occasionally be spotted within the park’s boundaries.

Botanical Diversity: Apart from orchids, the park features a wide array of plant species adapted to the unique wetland environment. Stroll through the cypress domes and wet prairies to appreciate the rich botanical diversity.

Birdwatching: Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunities for birdwatching. Fakahatchee is a prime location to spot various birds, including wading birds, woodpeckers, raptors, and migratory species.

Hiking: The park offers several hiking trails that allow you to explore its diverse landscapes. The “Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk” is a popular trail that winds through a cypress swamp and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Jones Grade Lakes and Trail takes you through the strand swamp and Janes Memorial Scenic Drive (Loop Road) leads to the Main entrance of the Fakahatchee Preserve

Boating: East River canoe launch is tucked away down an unmarked dirt drive off U.S. 41, 5 miles west of State Road 29, on the south side of the road.

Photography: With its unique landscapes, vibrant flora, and wildlife, Fakahatchee Strand State Park is a photographer’s paradise. Capture the essence of the swamplands, the intricate details of orchids, and the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Tips for Visitors

Weather: The dry season (December to April) is the best time to visit when temperatures are milder and mosquito activity is reduced.

Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour, especially during the orchid blooming season, to gain insights from knowledgeable naturalists.

Footwear: Wear sturdy and waterproof footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be active, so bring effective insect repellent and protective clothing.

Respect Nature: Follow park regulations and guidelines to protect the delicate ecosystems and wildlife.

Fakahatchee Strand State Park offers a rare opportunity to explore a pristine and unique wilderness. Whether you’re interested in orchids, wildlife, or simply want to experience the beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes, the park provides an immersive and unforgettable experience for all types of visitors.

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands.

In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be:

On a leash no longer than 6 feet
Under control at all times
Kept out of wildlife areas and water

These rules are in place to protect:

Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals)
Fragile ecosystems
Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here)

If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Yes. They’re close enough that many visitors do both in one day. It’s an easy way to experience two very different sides of the Ten Thousand Islands area.
Helpful pages: Goodland | Everglades City

No. Goodland is a working waterfront village, not a beach town. Visitors looking for sandy beaches usually head to Marco Island or other nearby areas.

Helpful page: Goodland

Can I fly my drone in Everglades National Park?

No, drones and other unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park, or any other National Park Service site. This includes model airplanes, quadcopters, etc. (nps.gov)

Keywadin Island is only accessible by boat. People reach it from several nearby launches, including Marco Island, Everglades City, and Port of the Islands, depending on where they’re coming from and the conditions. While the island is undeveloped, there are trash cans placed in popular areas, and on busy days boat-based vendors often come by selling items like ice cream, drinks, and simple food. Visitors should still plan ahead by bringing water, sun protection, and anything they’ll need for the day, and always pack out personal trash and respect the natural setting.

Where can I park my car if I’m leaving in a boat for an extended trip?

Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Can I reserve the Mcleod Park for an event?

To Reserve the City Park for an Event contact the City Clerk at (239) 695-4558 or email: Dsmallwood@cityofeverglades.org (CityofEverglades.org)

How long does it take to get out to the ocean from Port of the Islands

It usually takes around 45 minutes to cruise from the Port of the Islands to the ocean. The journey includes navigating through a long, no-wake zone canal, providing a delightful and unhurried ride. Bring a cover for sun protection during this slow and scenic route. About half an hour in, you’ll arrive at the expansive and naturally beautiful mangroves before reaching the open waters of the ocean.

The Everglades isn’t something you just drive through and check off a list. The best way to experience it is to slow down. Walk a boardwalk trail, spend time on the water, or explore with someone who knows the area. A mix of trails, scenic drives, and guided tours gives you a much better feel for this place than any single stop.
Helpful pages:

Things To Do | Parks | Boat Tours

In Port of the Islands, where can I park if I’m going out on the water?

You can park in the parking lot by Port of the Islands Marina. Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Chokoloskee is a small island community just across the bridge from Everglades City. It sits right on the edge of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, surrounded by water, mangroves, and backcountry routes.

Helpful Pages: Chokoloskee

Goodland is a small waterfront fishing village located between Marco Island and Everglades City. It sits on the edge of the Ten Thousand Islands and is surrounded by water, mangroves, and working docks.
Helpful page: Goodland

Ochopee is a small rural community along Tamiami Trail (US-41), east of Everglades City, right in the heart of the Everglades. It’s not a town in the traditional sense — more a stretch of road where long-time families still live and work.

Helpful page: Ochopee

Where can I hunt in Everglades National Forrest?

Hunting is permitted exclusively in Big Cypress Preserve. Visit our hunting page for more details.

Fakahatchee Strand State Park

Build Your Own Everglades Experience

Fakahatchee Strand State Park

Overview

Things to Do

Tips for Visitors

FAQ’s

Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

Can I visit Goodland and Everglades City in the same day?

Does Goodland have beaches?

Drones in the Park?

How to get to Keywadin Island, and what should I bring?

Long Term Parking in Port of the Islands

Reserve Mcleod Park?

Trip Time to the Ocean From Port of the Islands

What are the best ways to experience the Everglades?

Where can I park in Port of the Islands

Where is Chokoloskee located?

Where is Goodland located?

Where is Ochopee located?

Which Park to Hunt