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.

Vote Nov 5th on Fishing & Hunting in Florida

Vote Nov 5th on Fishing & Hunting in Florida
Gallery
Vote Nov 5th on Fishing & Hunting in Florida

Fishing, News, Wildlife

Vote Nov 5th on Fishing & Hunting in Florida

Amendment 2 on the upcoming ballot aims to protect the right to fish and hunt in Florida.

Staff2025-01-28T16:43:34-05:00July 30, 2024|Fishing, News, Wildlife|

US Bicycle Route System Surpasses 20,000 Miles
Gallery
US Bicycle Route System Surpasses 20,000 Miles

Community

US Bicycle Route System Surpasses 20,000 Miles

The US Bicycle Route System has bypassed the 20,000 mile benchmark with three completely new routes and two major extensions!

Staff2025-01-28T16:43:41-05:00July 29, 2024|Community|

Cheesy Seasoned Shrimp & Grits
Gallery
Cheesy Seasoned Shrimp & Grits

Recipes

Cheesy Seasoned Shrimp & Grits

Separately cook the Shrimp, Bacon and Grits then combine on individual plates or in a serving dish.

Staff2025-09-04T20:04:09-04:00July 28, 2024|Recipes|

Snook Bonanza
Gallery
Snook Bonanza

Fishing, Fishing Report

Snook Bonanza

Summer is in full swing! With the heat and the hot water temps, it is that time of year when an afternoon rain is welcome!

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:11-04:00July 27, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

Marjory Stoneman Douglas
Gallery
Marjory Stoneman Douglas

History

Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Marjory Stoneman Douglas (April 7, 1890 – May 14, 1998) was an American journalist, author, women’s suffrage advocate, and conservationist best known for her unwavering defense of the Everglades against efforts to drain it and reclaim land for development.

Staff2025-01-28T16:44:20-05:00July 26, 2024|History|

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Letter to the Board
Gallery
Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Letter to the Board

Community

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Letter to the Board

I hit the lottery on memorable events somewhere because I can’t go one week without an oddball occurrence, mishap, run-in, fight, folly, or near miss.

Staff2025-01-28T16:44:26-05:00July 25, 2024|Community|

July Bank of Everglades Update
Gallery
July Bank of Everglades Update

Community

July Bank of Everglades Update

This summer we are looking forward to our Bank of Everglades Building project moving forward.

Staff2024-07-19T11:28:59-04:00July 24, 2024|Community|

Calling All Python Hunters
Gallery
Calling All Python Hunters

Community

Calling All Python Hunters

Python Hunters, Museum of the Everglades wants to tell your story!

Staff2025-01-28T16:44:34-05:00July 23, 2024|Community|

EVG District All-Star | June
Gallery
EVG District All-Star | June

School

EVG District All-Star | June

Sophomore Josey Ryder is a talented catcher on the Lady Gators softball team at Everglades City School.

Staff2024-07-19T11:27:35-04:00July 22, 2024|School|

Should We Fear Artificial Intelligence?
Gallery
Should We Fear Artificial Intelligence?

News

Should We Fear Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a part of our daily lives, even if we do not always realize it.

Staff2025-07-29T15:07:57-04:00July 21, 2024|News|

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.

Vote Nov 5th on Fishing & Hunting in Florida

Vote Nov 5th on Fishing & Hunting in Florida

US Bicycle Route System Surpasses 20,000 Miles

US Bicycle Route System Surpasses 20,000 Miles

Cheesy Seasoned Shrimp & Grits

Cheesy Seasoned Shrimp & Grits

Snook Bonanza

Snook Bonanza

Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Letter to the Board

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Letter to the Board

July Bank of Everglades Update

July Bank of Everglades Update

Calling All Python Hunters

Calling All Python Hunters

EVG District All-Star | June

EVG District All-Star | June

Should We Fear Artificial Intelligence?

Should We Fear Artificial Intelligence?

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