- DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK, FLORIDA -
Looking for the ultimate Labor Day weekend oasis? Head to Dry Tortugas National Park,
where you’ll experience authentic fun in the Florida sun. Comprised of 7 islands and
surrounded by protected coral reefs, Dry Tortugas is the perfect place to pitch your tent
if you’re looking for paradise. Go snorkeling or kayaking, or simply stroll the shorelines
and beachcomb. You’ll wish your days here weren’t numbered.
Overnight camping is permitted in the Garden Key campground. Garden Key requires a
self-service fee of $3 per person to enter the grounds. The sites are all primitive by na-
ture, so make sure you bring plenty of food and drinking water. Picnic tables and grills,
however, are provided for convenience.
Showers and restroom facilities are available on the grounds, and Dry Tortugas even
offers a large group site for parties of 10-40 people. If you’re going to be camping out
with a large group, you can reserve this specific site in advance for that purpose.
Because Dry Tortugas is an island, you’ll need to plan out your mode of transportation ahead of
time. Private vessels are the only way to the park other than the commercial ferry, but passengers
are limited. It is best to book your trip here a few months in advance. Contact the park directly for
reservations, or visit www.nps.gov/drto/planyourvisit/camping for more information.
“Comprised of 7 islands and surrounded by protected
coral reefs, Dry Tortugas is the perfect place to pitch your
tent if you’re looking for paradise”
16 | Summer 2018 | Adventure Outdoors