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 Fishing Report

by Capt. Mike Merritt | Guide

Winter Bite Continues
Gallery
Winter Bite Continues

Fishing, Fishing Report

Winter Bite Continues

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:05-04:00February 5, 2025|Fishing, Fishing Report|

As fronts continue to move down upon us, we keep on catching fish! Sheepshead seems to be abundant and everyone is catching good size fish inshore.

Cold Bounty
Gallery
Cold Bounty

Fishing, Fishing Report

Cold Bounty

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:06-04:00January 26, 2025|Fishing, Fishing Report|

Many people dread the fronts that come through this time of year, and honestly, I am one of them.

Winter Bite
Gallery
Winter Bite

Fishing, Fishing Report

Winter Bite

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:07-04:00December 27, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

What we can definitely count on is the winter species that migrate in like the Sheepshead, Black Drum, even Mackerel, Trout, and Bluefish.

Building Success for the Next Generation
Gallery
Building Success for the Next Generation

Community

Building Success for the Next Generation

Staff2025-11-21T15:50:46-05:00December 18, 2024|Community|

Mentoring young people to achieve success in their chosen paths has always been a passion of mine.

Chilly Nights and Hot Bites
Gallery
Chilly Nights and Hot Bites

Fishing, Fishing Report

Chilly Nights and Hot Bites

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:07-04:00December 11, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

As cool weather approaches I am reminded of camping out in the Islands over the years.

Local, 1st Place at RedSnook Tournament
Gallery
Local, 1st Place at RedSnook Tournament

Fishing, News

Local, 1st Place at RedSnook Tournament

Staff2025-11-21T15:50:47-05:00November 27, 2024|Fishing, News|

I had the pleasure of fishing alongside young local angler Chase Stokes and my client John Johnson in the 30th Annual RedSnook Charity Tournament.

Fishing the Everglades this Winter
Gallery
Fishing the Everglades this Winter

Fishing, Fishing Report

Fishing the Everglades this Winter

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:08-04:00November 26, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

The last of the fall fishing is proving to be a little tough as we have had some really strong NE winds to deal with.

October Redfish Success
Gallery
October Redfish Success

Fishing, Fishing Report

October Redfish Success

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:09-04:00October 15, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

At the time of writing this months report we have had some really good Redfish action!

Prime Snook Fishing
Gallery
Prime Snook Fishing

Fishing, Fishing Report

Prime Snook Fishing

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:10-04:00September 14, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

September has historically been my favorite month for catching big Snook.

Summer Bite
Gallery
Summer Bite

Fishing, Fishing Report

Summer Bite

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:11-04:00August 22, 2024|Fishing, Fishing Report|

The rains are at peak, the heat is turned up high, and the bugs are out in full force. Sound like summer?

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 Fishing Report

Winter Bite Continues

Winter Bite Continues

Cold Bounty

Cold Bounty

Winter Bite

Winter Bite

Building Success for the Next Generation

Building Success for the Next Generation

Chilly Nights and Hot Bites

Chilly Nights and Hot Bites

Local, 1st Place at RedSnook Tournament

Local, 1st Place at RedSnook Tournament

Fishing the Everglades this Winter

Fishing the Everglades this Winter

October Redfish Success

October Redfish Success

Prime Snook Fishing

Prime Snook Fishing

Summer Bite

Summer Bite

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