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.

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

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

Does Goodland have beaches?

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 )

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

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.

Long Term Parking in Port of the Islands

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 )

Trip Time to the Ocean From Port of the Islands

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.

What are the best ways to experience the Everglades?

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

Where can I park in Port of the Islands

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.

Where is Chokoloskee located?

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

Where is Goodland located?

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

Where is Ochopee located?

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.

Community Archives

Community News

Welcome to our vibrant news hub, where we bring you the latest updates and community happenings from Everglades City and the enchanting Ten Thousand Islands. Stay connected to the pulse of this unique community, featuring local events, stories, and highlights that make our corner of the world truly special.

Where is the Smallest Post Office In The US?
Gallery
Where is the Smallest Post Office In The US?

Community, History

Where is the Smallest Post Office In The US?

Staff2025-01-28T16:55:11-05:00March 21, 2024|Community, History|

According to Postal Facts, “the smallest Post Office is in Ochopee, FL (34141) and is 61.3 square feet situated on U.S. Route 41, just 3 miles east of the intersection with State Road 29, proudly serving the locals with a unique charm and history.”

Saving Lives in Goodland: The Introduction of Automated External Defibrillator
Gallery
Saving Lives in Goodland: The Introduction of Automated External Defibrillator

Community, News

Saving Lives in Goodland: The Introduction of Automated External Defibrillator

Staff2024-03-20T15:54:09-04:00March 21, 2024|Community, News|

“A big thank you goes out to the Marco Island Fire-Rescue, who came out and gave a demonstration on the importance of and how to use our Automated External Defibrillators,” says Mike Barbush, President of the Goodland Civics Association.

The Tale of Goodland’s Bicycle Path Eggs
Gallery
The Tale of Goodland’s Bicycle Path Eggs

Community

The Tale of Goodland’s Bicycle Path Eggs

Staff2024-03-19T16:00:05-04:00March 16, 2024|Community|

Have you seen the cool Easter eggs hanging in the trees along the bicycle path along Goodland Drive heading into Goodland? If not, go see!

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades
Gallery
Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Community, Events

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Staff2025-01-28T16:59:06-05:00March 16, 2024|Community, Events|

Rumble In The Glades second annual car and bike show saw even larger crowds this year, making it a successful community event.

Everglades City Welcomes Its First Community Garden
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Everglades City Welcomes Its First Community Garden

Community

Everglades City Welcomes Its First Community Garden

Staff2024-03-19T11:31:25-04:00March 2, 2024|Community|

Everglades City, with its breathtaking natural beauty and close-knit community, is embracing sustainability and togetherness with open arms through the launch of its very first community garden.

Celebrating the Miccosukee
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Celebrating the Miccosukee

Community, Events

Celebrating the Miccosukee

Staff2025-01-28T16:56:09-05:00March 2, 2024|Community, Events|

Museum of the Everglades recently collaborated with the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians to create an exhibit sharing and celebrating their history.

What’s The Oldest Building In Everglades City?
Gallery
What’s The Oldest Building In Everglades City?

Community

What’s The Oldest Building In Everglades City?

Staff2024-03-19T11:05:13-04:00February 17, 2024|Community|

I was standing in front of “the friendly little church on the circle in Everglades City” when a man came up to me and asked, “What’s the oldest building here in Everglades City?”

Everglades City Channel Dredging Plans
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Everglades City Channel Dredging Plans

Community, News

Everglades City Channel Dredging Plans

Staff2024-03-19T11:07:05-04:00February 17, 2024|Community, News|

The Army Corps of Engineers gathered with the citizens on February 1st, to provide updates on the ongoing plans to dredge the local channel.

Honey, I Thought You Said This Was Florida
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Honey, I Thought You Said This Was Florida

Community

Honey, I Thought You Said This Was Florida

Staff2025-01-28T16:56:22-05:00February 5, 2024|Community|

It’s that time of year. Floridians boast of wearing shorts, flip flops and enjoying mild temperatures with blue skies. Well, maybe not this year.

A Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Future
Gallery
A Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Future

Community, News

A Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Future

Staff2024-03-28T18:18:27-04:00February 3, 2024|Community, News|

In our beautiful Everglades City, a community-driven effort is reshaping the urban landscape.

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.

Community News

Where is the Smallest Post Office In The US?

Where is the Smallest Post Office In The US?

Saving Lives in Goodland: The Introduction of Automated External Defibrillator

Saving Lives in Goodland: The Introduction of Automated External Defibrillator

The Tale of Goodland’s Bicycle Path Eggs

The Tale of Goodland’s Bicycle Path Eggs

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Everglades City Welcomes Its First Community Garden

Everglades City Welcomes Its First Community Garden

Celebrating the Miccosukee

Celebrating the Miccosukee

What’s The Oldest Building In Everglades City?

What’s The Oldest Building In Everglades City?

Everglades City Channel Dredging Plans

Everglades City Channel Dredging Plans

Honey, I Thought You Said This Was Florida

Honey, I Thought You Said This Was Florida

A Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Future

A Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Future

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