Backcountry
Campsite Map
You'll Need a Permit
Backcountry permits are required for all overnight camping, except in auto campgrounds or when sleeping aboard boats. They may be obtained in person up to 24 hours before the day your trip begins. Please display your permit on your tent. Upon completion of your trip, please turn your permit in to a Ranger Station or Visitor Center. Indicate comments or complaints on the back of the permit, and report any violations to a park ranger.
Insect conditions are so severe during summer months that backcountry use is minimal and permit writing desks may not be staffed. Permits are still required - follow self-registration instruction at the Flamingo or Gulf Coast Visitor Centers, or the Key Largo Ranger Station (usually May to November).
Winter backcountry users originating from the Florida Keys will be able to obtain permits over the phone from Flamingo, no more than 24 hours prior to the start of their trip, for the following locations only: North Nest Key, Little Rabbit Key, Carl Ross Key, and the Cape Sable Beaches.
Beginning November 1, 1997, a fee will be charged for backcountry permits:
- $10 for 1-6 people
- $20 for 7-12 people
- $30 for 13 or more people
Winter Permit Station Hours
(usually December through April)
Gulf Coast Visitor Center
(Everglades City)
7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily
941-695-3311
Flamingo Visitor Center
(including all Florida Bay sites)
7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
941-695-2945
Main Entrance Station
Backcountry permits are written from the Main Entrance Station only
for two land sites in the Long Pine Key area, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00
p.m. daily.
Campsite Types
