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.

Chokoloskee News

News
Spotlight: Everglades Society for Historic Preservation: 20 Years Guarding Old Florida History
Since 2004, the Everglades Society for Historic Preservation (ESHP) has been on a mission to protect, preserve, and celebrate the city’s rich past.

February 20, 2025News
Fishing,Fishing Report
February Fishing
Fishing for all the winter species has continued to be good. Our biggest challenge has been these extreme low blowout tides.

February 18, 2025Fishing, Fishing Report
Community,News
Holy Family Church Outreach Program
Volunteers from SVDP San Marco Conference will have office hours to help those that need financial assistance on the 4th Wednesday of the month.

February 16, 2025Community, News
History
Naples Municipal Airport
The airport has a rich history dating back to World War II when it was established by the United States Army Air Forces at the height of WWII as Naples Army Airfield.

February 14, 2025History
Parks,Wildlife
Fakahatchee Hilton & Gators
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is one of the most popular parks in southwest Florida.

February 13, 2025Parks, Wildlife
News,Parks
Wilderness Stewardship Plan Update
Everglades National Park has released an update on its Wilderness Stewardship Plan, which aims to guide the preservation, management, and use of the park’s wilderness lands.

February 12, 2025News, Parks
Events,News
White Pelican Event
On January 11, the Everglades Society for Historic Preservation, Inc., in conjunction with the Ted Smallwood’s Store, Inc., hosted the White Pelican Festival.

February 11, 2025Events, News
News
Blending Tradition with Technology: AI Enhances Valentine’s Day Romance
With artificial intelligence (AI) permeating every aspect of our lives, even love letters are receiving a high-tech upgrade.

February 11, 2025News

More Chokoloskee News

Local Events

Rep. Díaz-Balart’s in EC Office
Published On: August 12, 2024|Categories: ECity|
City Council Meeting
Published On: November 21, 2023|Categories: ECity|
Food Pantry
Published On: February 13, 2024|Categories: ECity|
Ladies’ Coffee at HavAnnA Cafe
Published On: February 3, 2026|Categories: Clubs|
Food Pantry
Published On: February 13, 2024|Categories: ECity|
Ladies’ Coffee at Island Cafe
Published On: February 3, 2026|Categories: Clubs|
Third Thursday Talk at the Museum of the Everglades
Published On: January 1, 2026|Categories: Culture|
Code Enforcement & Planning & Zoning Meetings
Published On: August 12, 2024|Categories: ECity|

See The Full Calendar

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.

Chokoloskee News

Local Events

Local Events

Area News

Area News

Park News

Park News

Birds on Beach. Photo courtesy of FWC.

Fishing Report

Fishing Report

Red Snapper Photo Courtesy of FWC

City Hall News

City Hall News

Michael McComas Everglades City Council

School News

School News

(King) Chandler O’Connell & (Queen) Kaylee Henry

Local History

Local History

Alligator Alley

Wildlife

Wildlife

Great Horned Owl Momma Everglades City

Recipes

Recipes

Southern-Style Tomato Sandwich Recipe on Visit Everglades City

FAQ’s