The best camping near Dry Tortugas National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Dry Tortugas National Park adventure.

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100% (13 reviews)

It’s not the Caribbean Tortuga with all the pirates, but it’s easy to imagine them hiding out here.  

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The best camping near Dry Tortugas National Park guide

Overview

About

The remote location of these seven islands is the perfect place to stash your plunder and lay low.

It’s a two hour and fifteen minute ferry ride from Key West to Fort Jefferson, or forty minutes by seaplane. The fort is located on Garden Key, the second largest island in the chain. It’s full of sandy beaches perfect for frolicking. There’s also top notch snorkeling among the coral reefs. While you're there, keep your eyes peeled for marine life like the resident sea turtles.

The largest island is Loggerhead Key, home to the Dry Tortugas Lighthouse. This lighthouse, along with the Garden Key lighthouse, were the only two in the Gulf that stayed on for the entire Civil War.

Bush Key used to be called Hog Island because of the pigs that were raised there. It’s now a large nesting site for migratory birds. Bush Key is closed from April to September to protect the nesting sooty terns and brown noddies.

The rest of the islets are tiny and come and go with the hurricanes that sometimes hit the area. Some of them aren’t much more than a strip of sand.

Oh, and we should warn you: don’t plan on uploading any Instagrams photos while visiting this park; cell service is practically nil. Of course, that just gives you more time to soak up the sun, sights, and history at this tropical outpost on the edge of America.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book well in advance to secure your spot at this sought-after destination.
  • Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
  • Be flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding availability.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park is from November to April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. Summer months can be extremely hot and are also the peak of hurricane season, which can lead to unpredictable weather and potential park closures.

Know before you go

  • Access to the park is limited to boat or seaplane, so plan your transportation in advance.
  • Be prepared for the sun and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and protective clothing.
  • Check the National Park Service website for the latest alerts and conditions before your trip.
  • Remember that amenities are limited; pack out all trash and leave no trace.
  • Respect wildlife and coral reefs by observing from a distance and not disturbing the natural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping on Dry Tortugas National Park costs $15 per site per night. This fee is in addition to the entrance fee for the park, which is $10 per person and valid for seven days. Keep in mind that camping is only available at the Garden Key campground, and you'll need to arrange transportation to the park, as it is accessible only by boat or seaplane. For more information on camping in Dry Tortugas, visit Hipcamp.

There is no specific limit on the number of nights you can camp at Dry Tortugas National Park. However, camping is limited to Garden Key, and there are only 10 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The park encourages campers to limit their stay to no more than three nights due to the limited capacity. Keep in mind that the camping experience at Dry Tortugas is primitive, with no fresh water, food, or fuel supplies available on the island. Campers must bring all necessary supplies with them.

Camping at Dry Tortugas can be a unique and unforgettable experience. The remote national park is located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, and offers pristine, clear waters for snorkeling and diving, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the historic Fort Jefferson. Camping on Dry Tortugas is limited to the Garden Key campground, which is a small, primitive campsite with only 10 spots available. Reservations are required, and you must bring your own camping gear, food, and water, as there are no facilities or concessions on the island. If you enjoy remote, off-the-grid experiences and are prepared for the challenges of primitive camping, then Dry Tortugas can be a rewarding destination. Keep in mind that the only way to reach the island is by ferry or seaplane, so plan your trip accordingly. For more information on camping at Dry Tortugas, visit Hipcamp.

The best time of year to camp at the Dry Tortugas is between November and April. During these months, the weather is cooler, drier, and more comfortable for camping, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. Additionally, you'll experience fewer bugs and less humidity. Keep in mind that the Dry Tortugas can be windy during this time, so be prepared for cooler nights and breezy conditions. For more information on camping in the Dry Tortugas, visit Hipcamp.

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