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.

Fishing Report Archives

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Summer Time Fishing

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:12-04:00July 2, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

When it comes to fishing here in the summer months, the best plan is to get out early and come in early!

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Staff2026-03-09T07:01:13-04:00June 7, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

Summer time is approaching fast! With May upon us and June right around the corner, it is starting to get hot out on the water.

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The Snook fishing has continued to be really good. The weather keeps adding difficulty as these winds keep on blowing.

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Staff2026-03-09T07:01:14-04:00April 15, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

Fishing this month is looking good! The weather has turned nice and the Snook bite seems to be getting better each day.

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Fishing The 10,000 Islands April

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:15-04:00April 2, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

Spring Fishing here in the 10,000 Islands continues to get better. We are finally catching some bigger fish on the outside Islands.

Fishing The 10,000 Islands March
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Fishing The 10,000 Islands March
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Fishing The 10,000 Islands March

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:15-04:00March 18, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

March brings windy weather and changing conditions, but anglers in the 10,000 Islands are finding success with Seatrout, Redfish, Sheepshead, and more.

Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands
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Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands
Fishing, Fishing Report, Wildlife

Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:16-04:00February 17, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report, Wildlife|

Well, we are having a warming trend that has fired up the Snook fishing. If this continues then the Snook bite should be good this month.

Fishing the 10,000 Islands in December
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Fishing the 10,000 Islands in December
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Fishing the 10,000 Islands in December

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:17-04:00January 4, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

December fishing in the 10,000 islands has been awesome! We started the month with warm temps and calm winds.

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.

Summer Time Fishing

Summer Time Fishing

Summertime Fishing

Summertime Fishing

Springtime Fishing

Springtime Fishing

Fishing Report

Fishing Report

Fishing The 10,000 Islands April

Fishing The 10,000 Islands April

Fishing The 10,000 Islands March

Fishing The 10,000 Islands March

Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands

Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands

Fishing the 10,000 Islands in December

Fishing the 10,000 Islands in December

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