Dry Tortugas
Overview
Dry Tortugas National Park sits 70 miles west of Key West, a cluster of seven small islands in the Gulf of Mexico dominated by Fort Jefferson — a massive hexagonal Civil War-era fortress that is the largest masonry structure in the Americas. The fort's 16 million bricks rise from Garden Key surrounded by shallow turquoise water, coral reefs, and white sand beaches that feel more Caribbean than continental United States. Getting here is half the adventure: visitors arrive by ferry (2.5 hours from Key West), seaplane (40 minutes), or private boat. The rewards are extraordinary. The waters around the fort host some of the healthiest coral reefs remaining in the Florida Keys, with snorkeling directly off the beach revealing brain corals, sea fans, parrotfish, barracuda, and nurse sharks in crystal-clear water. Inside the fort, visitors explore the officers' quarters, powder magazines, and the cell where Dr. Samuel Mudd was imprisoned for treating John Wilkes Booth's broken leg. Camping on Garden Key, limited to a handful of primitive sites within the fort walls, is one of the most unique camping experiences in the national park system. You fall asleep to the sound of waves, wake to spectacular sunrises, and have the fort and snorkeling to yourself before the ferry arrives midmorning. The isolation and dark skies make for exceptional stargazing.
Things to Do
- Explore Fort Jefferson's Civil War-era fortress
- Snorkel the coral reefs off Garden Key beach
- Camp inside the fort walls under the stars
- Arrive by seaplane for aerial views of the islands
- Photograph the fort at sunrise before the ferry arrives
- Birdwatch during spring migration (April-May)
- Swim in the crystal-clear moat around the fort
Garden Key Campground
Sites available
Bird Key Wreck
ShipwreckThe Bird Key Wreck, also known as the Brick Wreck.
Campground Restroom
RestroomFour composting toilets in the campground area.
Dock House and Information
DockThe dockhouse on Garden Key
Dr. Mudd's Cell
Dr. MuddDr. Mudd's Cell above the sallyport.
Dry Tortugas Research Natural Area (RNA)
ResearchThe RNA is a 46 square-mile no-take ecological preserve that provides a sanctuary for species affected by fishing and lo...
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for these animals during your visit:
Pro Tips
- 💡 Book the Yankee Freedom ferry or Key West Seaplane months in advance — they fill up fast, especially in winter
- 💡 Bring all your own food, water, and supplies for camping; there is nothing available on the island
- 💡 Snorkel gear is included with the ferry ticket, but bring your own mask if you want a good fit
- 💡 April and May bring massive bird migrations with thousands of sooty terns nesting — birders consider this peak season
- 💡 Campers get the island to themselves from 5 PM to 10 AM — the ferry day-trippers leave in the afternoon
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Tropical climate with warm, humid conditions year-round. Winter highs around 75°F, summer around 90°F. Hurricane season (June-November) can disrupt ferry service. Calmest seas are in winter and spring.