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.

Historic Boat Lift

Historic Boat Lift
Gallery
Historic Boat Lift

Community, History

Historic Boat Lift

Varick Niles recently donated a framed collage of photos of the dedication of the Historic Boat Lift to the Everglades Society for Historic Preservation who sponsored the event on the grounds of the Rod & Gun Club on April 13, 2007.

Staff2024-04-01T13:51:37-04:00April 12, 2024|Community, History|

Easy Read! “The Story of Everglades City; A History for Younger Readers”
Gallery
Easy Read! “The Story of Everglades City; A History for Younger Readers”

History

Easy Read! “The Story of Everglades City; A History for Younger Readers”

Want your children to learn the history of our historic Everglades City? We have the perfect book for you,

Staff2024-04-01T13:34:39-04:00April 11, 2024|History|

Time To Plant Those Slips
Gallery
Time To Plant Those Slips

Community

Time To Plant Those Slips

As the warm embrace of spring settles in, it’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the rewarding world of sweet potato cultivation.

Staff2024-04-09T10:53:54-04:00April 10, 2024|Community|

A Dangerous Trend in Media
Gallery
A Dangerous Trend in Media

News

A Dangerous Trend in Media

In an age where information spreads like wildfire, the role of the media as a gatekeeper of truth and accuracy is more critical than ever.

Staff2024-04-01T13:49:14-04:00April 10, 2024|News|

Everglades City Community Garden March Update
Gallery
Everglades City Community Garden March Update

Community

Everglades City Community Garden March Update

The Everglades City Community Garden is thriving with the help of community residents.

Staff2024-04-01T13:47:39-04:00April 9, 2024|Community|

Keeping it Clean
Gallery
Keeping it Clean

Community

Keeping it Clean

This is a new endeavor by the Missions Committee of Everglades Community Church to supplement our Food Distribution Program by providing additional personal care items and cleaning supplies.

Staff2024-04-01T13:45:34-04:00April 8, 2024|Community|

Discover Port of the Islands Park
Gallery
Discover Port of the Islands Park

Parks

Discover Port of the Islands Park

I lived in Port of the Islands for many years, and I’ve often seen people hanging out in this spot by the bridge.

Staff2024-04-01T13:44:29-04:00April 7, 2024|Parks|

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

Fishing, News, Wildlife

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

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

Staff2026-04-27T04:09:16-04:00April 6, 2024|Fishing, News, Wildlife|

Shrimp Ala King
Gallery
Shrimp Ala King

Recipes

Shrimp Ala King

Enjoy these Crispy Parmesan Potatoes, you can serve them as is or with some sour cream! Cook time: 45 minutes

Staff2025-09-04T20:04:12-04:00April 5, 2024|Recipes|

Ends of the Earth Cycling Bike Ride
Gallery
Ends of the Earth Cycling Bike Ride

Community, News

Ends of the Earth Cycling Bike Ride

On March 9 Holy Family Catholic Church in Everglades City once again hosted the Ends of the Earth Cyclists for their 13th Annual Key West Bike Ride.

Staff2025-01-28T16:58:56-05:00April 5, 2024|Community, 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.

Historic Boat Lift

Historic Boat Lift

Easy Read! “The Story of Everglades City; A History for Younger Readers”

Easy Read! “The Story of Everglades City; A History for Younger Readers”

Time To Plant Those Slips

Time To Plant Those Slips

A Dangerous Trend in Media

A Dangerous Trend in Media

Everglades City Community Garden March Update

Everglades City Community Garden March Update

Keeping it Clean

Keeping it Clean

Discover Port of the Islands Park

Discover Port of the Islands Park

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

Bizarre Fish Behavior in the Florida Keys

Shrimp Ala King

Shrimp Ala King

Ends of the Earth Cycling Bike Ride

Ends of the Earth Cycling Bike Ride

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