
National Park · Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park
Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.
Things to do
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Boating
- Boat Tour
- Camping
- Fishing
- Guided Tours
- Hands-On
- Volunteer Vacation
- Paddling
- Junior Ranger Program
- SCUBA Diving
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
Weather & when to go
The climate in the Dry Tortugas is subtropical, which basically means that it has warm and tropical weather in the range of 60°F to 90°F. The two main seasons are the winter stormy season from December through March which is windier and sees rougher seas, and the summertime tropical storm season from June through November where there is a higher chance of isolated storms. During the summers it is hot and humid. During the winter the temperature is milder and drier.
Entrance fees
Entrance - Per Person
The entrance fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15.00 per person and is good for 7 consecutive days. Any person 15 years old and under is exempt from paying an entrance fees (including international visitors). Ferry tickets include the cost of entrance to the park, but NOT camping fees. Seaplane will charge the entrance fee upon arrival. Plan to bring cash for each person aged 16-years of age and older. Private boaters may purchase a digital pass in advance or pay cash/check at Garden Key main dock.
$15.00
Operating hours
Dry Tortugas
The Dry Tortugas is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. This includes holidays.
Campgrounds
Garden Key Campground
FAQ
- How much does it cost to visit Dry Tortugas National Park?
- Entrance to Dry Tortugas National Park costs $15.00 (Entrance - Per Person). The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entry at every NPS site.
- What are the hours at Dry Tortugas National Park?
- The Dry Tortugas is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. This includes holidays.
- Do I need a reservation for Dry Tortugas National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Dry Tortugas National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Dry Tortugas National Park.

Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park
Why the dry season beats the wet season for wildlife, mosquitoes, and paddling — month by month.

Least Visited National Parks: 10 Quiet Escapes
The ten emptiest US national parks, why each one stays quiet, and what it actually takes to get to them.

Dry Tortugas National Park: How to Visit
How to visit Dry Tortugas National Park off Key West — the ferry, the seaplane, camping at Fort Jefferson, snorkeling, and what to plan ahead.

National Parks Near Tampa, Florida
The closest national parks to Tampa, with drive times, best seasons, and what to do at each.

National Parks Near Orlando, Florida
The closest national parks to Orlando, from the Everglades to Biscayne and Dry Tortugas, with drive times and trip tips.

Best National Parks in February: Where to Go
February is peak season for warm winter escapes and snowy adventures. See the best parks, from the Everglades to Death Valley.
