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Atlas & Gazetteer - Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park - Florida

Interior View of Dry Tortugas NP Go to Park Details
Fort Jefferson was built 1846-66 to help protect the Florida Straits. It is the largest all-masonry fortification in the Western world. The bird refuge and marine life here are notable features. Fort Jefferson National Monument was proclaimed January 4, 1935 and renamed Dry Tortugas National Park October 26, 1992.

Aerial View of Dry Tortugas NP Park Details

Location Information
Operating Hours/Seasons
Reservations/Permits/Fees
Facilities and Opportunities
(including trails, camping, concessions)



Location Information

Location:
Key West, Florida

Address/Telephone:
Site Supervisor Dry Tortugas National Park
PO Box 6208
Key West, FL 33041
305-242-7700

Directions/Transportation:
Boat or seaplane provide the only access to the Park. Several boat and air taxi services offer trips to the Dry Tortugas from Key West and the Lower Keys, as well as from the Naple and Fort Myers areas of Southwest Florida. Specific information about these services may be obtained from the chambers of commerce at 3330 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33052, phone 305-743-5417;Old Mallory Square, Key West, FL 33040, phone 305-294-2587; and 1700 N. Tamiami Trail, Naples, FL 33940, phone 813-262-6141. The closest airport is Key West International.

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Operating Hours/Seasons

Day use only on all keys except Garden Key. Bush Key is closed to visitors from April to September to protect nesting Sooty and Noddy Terns.

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Reservations/Permits/Fees

No entrance fee. A Florida salt water fishing license is required. Personal watercraft, i.e. jet skis, are not permitted.

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Facilities and Opportunities

Almost 70 miles (112.9 km) west of Key West lies a cluster of seven coral reefs called the Dry Tortugas. These reefs along with surrounding shoals and waters make up Dry Tortugas. Known for its famous bird and marine life, and its legends of pirates and sunken gold. Dry Tortugas National Park includes the largest of the 19th century American coastal forts. The park is isolated, visitors must provide everything they will need including food and water.

Programs/Activities:
Visitor Center, interpretive exhibits, a picnic area, self-guiding tours, Ranger-led activities, bird and wildlife watching, picnicking, salt water sport fishing, snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving. Lodging and Camping Stations:

Camping:
Camping is permitted on Garden Kay only in a small number of primitive camp sites that are available on a first-come, first served basis. Groups of 10 or more must obtain a special permit in advance. Other overnight accommodations are available in Key West, 70 miles (112.9km). Supplies are available in Key West.

Accessibility:
Restrooms, picnic area and the first tier of Fort Jefferson are accessible.

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