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.

Everglades City Archives

Everglades City

Update From Everglades City Hall
Gallery
Update From Everglades City Hall

City Hall, News

Update From Everglades City Hall

Staff2024-03-25T13:23:55-04:00March 20, 2024|City Hall, News|

City Council met on March 5th at 7 PM with all members present. The ladies from the Florida Stone Crabbers Assn. presented their report of the very successful Everglades Seafood Festival...

EVG School Updates
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EVG School Updates

School

EVG School Updates

Staff2025-01-28T16:59:04-05:00March 20, 2024|School|

The school year is super busy! Check out these updates and upcoming items.

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

Fishing, Fishing Report

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.

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades
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Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Community, Events

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Staff2025-01-28T16:59:06-05:00March 16, 2024|Community, Events|

Rumble In The Glades second annual car and bike show saw even larger crowds this year, making it a successful community event.

BAR B-QUE CHICKEN DINNER
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BAR B-QUE CHICKEN DINNER

BAR B-QUE CHICKEN DINNER

Staff2024-03-14T12:55:18-04:00March 13, 2024|Culture|

We’re fixin’ a mouthwatering meal that combines smoky, tangy, and downright delicious flavors right here at Everglades Community Church!

Prized pink-tagged bass are swimming in these Florida waters!
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Prized pink-tagged bass are swimming in these Florida waters!

Fishing

Prized pink-tagged bass are swimming in these Florida waters!

Staff2025-07-29T15:24:18-04:00March 2, 2024|Fishing|

Everglades City The Florida Fish and Wildlife

Where was the First Bank of Collier County FL?
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Where was the First Bank of Collier County FL?

History

Where was the First Bank of Collier County FL?

Staff2026-03-30T04:10:50-04:00March 2, 2024|History|

The first bank in Collier County was built by Barron Gift Collier, who envisioned an iconic landmark building as the home for the Bank of Everglades.

Judge Rules Against 404 Permitting
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Judge Rules Against 404 Permitting

News

Judge Rules Against 404 Permitting

Staff2025-01-28T16:55:33-05:00March 2, 2024|News|

On February 15th, Judge Randolph Moss, overseeing the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., made a significant ruling regarding Florida’s “404 program,” which aims to protect federal wetlands.

Update from Everglades City Hall
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Update from Everglades City Hall

City Hall

Update from Everglades City Hall

Staff2024-03-25T13:23:57-04:00March 2, 2024|City Hall|

Mayor Grimm nominated and the City Council confirmed the appointment of Diana Potter Valdes to fill the unexpired term of Josh Minton.

EVG District All-Star | February
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EVG District All-Star | February

School

EVG District All-Star | February

Staff2024-03-19T11:48:05-04:00March 2, 2024|School|

We’re thrilled to share that one of our very own EVG School students has been selected as this month’s CCPS District All-Star!

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.

Update From Everglades City Hall

Update From Everglades City Hall

EVG School Updates

EVG School Updates

Fishing The 10,000 Islands March

Fishing The 10,000 Islands March

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

Second Annual Rumble in the Glades

BAR B-QUE CHICKEN DINNER

BAR B-QUE CHICKEN DINNER

Prized pink-tagged bass are swimming in these Florida waters!

Prized pink-tagged bass are swimming in these Florida waters!

Where was the First Bank of Collier County FL?

Where was the First Bank of Collier County FL?

Judge Rules Against 404 Permitting

Judge Rules Against 404 Permitting

Update from Everglades City Hall

Update from Everglades City Hall

EVG District All-Star | February

EVG District All-Star | February

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