The Everglades National Park is a magnificent natural wonder that spans over 1.5 million acres of wetlands in southern Florida. With its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife, it is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. If you are planning a trip to the Everglades, you might be wondering about the best places to stay. In this post, we will explore some of the top accommodation options in and around the park, ranging from luxurious resorts to cozy campgrounds.
What is the best city to stay in when visiting the Everglades?
Everglades City, located on the western border of Everglades National Park, is considered the best city to stay in when visiting the park. The city offers easy access to the park and is home to several hotels that cater to visitors. Staying in Everglades City allows you to conveniently reach various airboat providers, which offer thrilling tours through the park’s unique ecosystem.
If you prefer to stay in a larger city, Miami is another option. Although it is further away from the park, Miami offers a range of accommodations and amenities. From Miami, you can take day trips to Everglades National Park and explore the park’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Alternatively, Homestead and Florida City are also suitable options for lodging near the Everglades. These cities are located in close proximity to the park’s main entrance, making it easy to access the park’s attractions. Additionally, the Upper Keys, including Key Largo and Islamorada, offer a scenic location to stay while still being within driving distance of the Everglades.
Where do people stay at Everglades National Park?
There is no overnight accommodations available in Everglades National Park other than camping facilities. The park offers several campgrounds where visitors can stay and immerse themselves in the beauty of the wilderness. Long Pine Key Campground is a popular choice, offering tent and RV camping sites as well as amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Flamingo Campground, located at the southern end of the park, is another option with similar facilities.
If camping is not your preferred option, there are several communities that border the park where lodging can be found. Homestead is a convenient choice, located just outside the park’s main entrance. This city offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to upscale hotels. Florida City, located a short drive from the park, also provides a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Miami is another popular choice for lodging near Everglades National Park. With its vibrant atmosphere, numerous attractions, and diverse range of accommodations, it offers something for everyone. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and budget-friendly options. Additionally, the cities of Everglades City and Chokoloskee are located near the western entrance of the park and provide lodging options for those looking to explore the western side of Everglades National Park.
Where is the best place to go in the Everglades?
If you want to experience the best of the Everglades, there are a few different options to consider. One popular choice is to enter through Shark Valley in Miami. This entrance offers a unique opportunity to explore the heart of the Everglades. You can take a tram tour or rent a bike and ride along the paved path that leads you deep into the park. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and turtles. The observation tower at Shark Valley provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, allowing you to truly appreciate the vastness and beauty of the Everglades.
Another option is to enter through the Main Entrance of the Park in Homestead. This entrance is located on the eastern edge of the Everglades and is a great starting point for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems. You can take a guided tour or venture out on your own along the many hiking trails that wind through the park. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as the Everglades is home to a wide range of species, including the endangered Florida panther and the elusive ghost orchid. The Main Entrance also offers camping facilities, allowing you to spend the night and fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Everglades.
If you’re looking to explore the Gulf Coast side of the Everglades, then a visit to Everglades City is a must. This small town is known as the gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and waterways that provide a unique and stunning backdrop for exploration. Take a boat trip from Everglades City and navigate through the mangroves, keeping an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. You can also try your hand at fishing or simply relax and soak in the beauty of this natural wonder.
Overall, the best place to go in the Everglades depends on what you’re looking for. Whether you choose to enter through Shark Valley, the Main Entrance in Homestead, or explore the Gulf Coast side in Everglades City, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience in one of the most unique and breathtaking natural environments in the world.
Are the Everglades worth a visit?
Yes, the Everglades are definitely worth a visit! This unique and diverse ecosystem offers a range of activities and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re interested in wildlife spotting, outdoor adventures, or simply immersing yourself in the beauty of nature, the Everglades have something for everyone.
One of the highlights of visiting the Everglades is the opportunity to see its incredible wildlife up close. From alligators and turtles to a wide variety of bird species, the park is a haven for animal lovers. You can take a guided tour or go on a self-guided adventure to spot these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Everglades offer a range of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and airboat tours. Exploring the trails and waterways of the park allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the unique beauty of this wetland ecosystem. Additionally, the Everglades provide ample opportunities for camping, fishing, and picnicking, making it a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
While we don’t think you should plan a vacation solely around a visit to the Everglades, we definitely think it’s worth adding to any Florida itinerary. The activities here are so unique and adventurous that they add a special touch to your overall experience of the state. So whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a break from the bustling cities and theme parks, a visit to the Everglades is sure to be a memorable and worthwhile experience.
Where are you staying in Everglades National Park?
There is no overnight accommodations available in Everglades National Park other than camping facilities. The park offers several campgrounds where visitors can pitch their tents or park their RVs. Long Pine Key Campground, located about seven miles from the park entrance, has 108 drive-up campsites and is open year-round. Flamingo Campground, located at the southern end of the park near Florida Bay, offers 234 campsites with access to amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a camp store. These campgrounds provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the park’s natural beauty and wildlife.
If you prefer more comfortable lodging options, there are several communities that border Everglades National Park where you can find accommodations. Homestead is the closest city to the park and offers a range of hotels and motels. Florida City, located just north of Homestead, also has a variety of lodging options available. If you’re looking for a larger city experience, Miami is about an hour’s drive from the park and offers a wide range of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Everglades City and Chokoloskee, located on the western edge of the park, are smaller communities that offer lodging options as well.
Whether you choose to camp in the park or stay in a nearby community, there are plenty of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Exploring Everglades National Park and its surrounding areas will surely provide an unforgettable nature experience.
