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.

Wildlife Archives

Everglades Wildlife News

Your source for the latest Everglades wildlife news, covering alligators, panthers, birds, and more in this vital ecosystem.

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys
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Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

Fishing, News, Wildlife

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

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A mysterious phenomenon is unfolding in the Florida Keys that could have ripple effects reaching our shores.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Arrives
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Sea Turtle Nesting Season Arrives

News, Wildlife

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Arrives

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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing the reminder that sea turtles are starting to nest on our beaches.

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

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Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands

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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.

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Birding in Big Cypress

Wildlife

Birding in Big Cypress

Staff2024-03-19T11:06:30-04:00February 17, 2024|Wildlife|

In Big Cypress Preserve, birding isn’t just a hobby—it’s a treasure hunt for the most stunning winged beauties!

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They’re Baaaack, The Enchanting Return of Roseate Spoonbills

Wildlife

They’re Baaaack, The Enchanting Return of Roseate Spoonbills

Staff2025-01-28T16:56:28-05:00February 3, 2024|Wildlife|

As the Roseate Spoonbills grace us with their vibrant presence this season, it’s a perfect time to delve deeper into the fascinating world of these favorite birds.

Birdwatching in Paradise
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Birdwatching in Paradise

Parks, Wildlife

Birdwatching in Paradise

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Birdwatching in the Everglades, a beautiful ruby-throated hummingbird is enjoying the warm weather in Everglades City.

Red-Shouldered Hawks Return
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Red-Shouldered Hawks Return

Community, Wildlife

Red-Shouldered Hawks Return

Staff2026-03-15T22:49:02-04:00June 17, 2020|Community, Wildlife|

Red-shouldered hawks, marked by peachy bellies and distinctive calls, return to Everglades City, Chokoloskee, and the 10,000 Islands.

The American White Pelican
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The American White Pelican

Community, Wildlife

The American White Pelican

Staff2026-03-10T18:09:47-04:00January 21, 2020|Community, Wildlife|

Catch the majestic American White Pelicans soaring over Everglades City and Chokoloskee,

Beautiful Everglades Birds
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Beautiful Everglades Birds

Parks, Wildlife

Beautiful Everglades Birds

Staff2024-03-11T17:16:27-04:00October 21, 2019|Parks, Wildlife|

Fall in the Everglades brings back native and migratory birds.

Great Horned Owl Nest Located in Everglades City
Gallery
Great Horned Owl Nest Located in Everglades City

Community, Wildlife

Great Horned Owl Nest Located in Everglades City

Staff2026-03-10T19:27:58-04:00January 7, 2019|Community, Wildlife|

Great Horned Owls have returned to their nest behind the Everglades City fire station.

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.

Everglades Wildlife News

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Arrives

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Arrives

Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands

Winter Fishing In The 10,000 Islands

Birding in Big Cypress

Birding in Big Cypress

They’re Baaaack, The Enchanting Return of Roseate Spoonbills

They’re Baaaack, The Enchanting Return of Roseate Spoonbills

Birdwatching in Paradise

Birdwatching in Paradise

Red-Shouldered Hawks Return

Red-Shouldered Hawks Return

The American White Pelican

The American White Pelican

Beautiful Everglades Birds

Beautiful Everglades Birds

Great Horned Owl Nest Located in Everglades City

Great Horned Owl Nest Located in Everglades City

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