Seasonal Closure: Bush Key
Most of Bush Key is now open to the public. To protect nesting frigatebirds, a small area on the north side of Bush Key, all of Long Key, and all vegetation remains closed until further notice.
Official NPS sourceSTATE & NATION TRAVEL
Florida Travel.
National parks, historic sites and practical visitor updates, directly from the National Park Service.
NPS sources checked 10/3/2026, 11:42:43 AM Eastern
Travel Alerts & Closures
CHECK BEFORE DEPARTURECurrent Alerts and Conditions
Be sure to review the Alerts and Conditions below before and during your visit for additional, up-to-date information on closures, cautions, and other current park conditions.
Official NPS sourceORV Permits Sold Online
Starting May 1st, 2026 ORV permits will only be able to be purchased online. Please visit the link to learn more.
Official NPS sourceCurrent Alerts and Conditions
Be sure to review the Alerts and Conditions below before and during your visit for additional, up-to-date information on closures, cautions, and other current park conditions.
Official NPS sourcePark Visitor Center Is Closed
Due to damage from the 2024 Hurricanes. The Park's visitor centers and restrooms are closed due to health and safety issues. The Park has installed portable restrooms located at the front of the park for visitor use.
Official NPS sourceFort Matanzas Only Accessible by Ferry Service
Fort Matanzas may only be accessed by our free ferry service. The boats operate Thursday through Monday; we do not operate the ferry on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. For more information about tickets and times, please visit the "Plan Your Visit" tab.
Official NPS sourceFor entrance fees, we accept digital passes and credit/debit cards
Digital passes or credit/debit cards are the ONLY method of payment at all fee collection areas. Pre-paid digital passes are available online and may be purchased in advance.
Official NPS sourceOperating Hours
The seashore is currently operating on the hours of 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Last entry into the seashore is at 7:00 pm.
Official NPS sourceBeat the Heat
Make sure to take hot weather into consideration. Carry water and use sunscreen to reduce the risk of heat injuries during your visit.
Official NPS sourceRip Currents and Rough Surf
Remember that rough surf is dangerous & rip currents can be deadly. Please use caution when swimming at Canaveral National Seashore.
Official NPS sourceSections of moat wall closed until Winter 2026
Sections of the moat wall that were damaged by Hurricanes Helene and Milton (2024) are undergoing repair and reinforcement. For your safety, please follow posted signage and do not cross any barricades.
Official NPS sourceMigrant Notice
Like elsewhere in the Florida Keys, we have seen an increase in Cuban migrants arriving by boat from Cuba and landing on the islands of Dry Tortugas National Park. You may observe migrant landings at the park and visitor areas may be impacted.
Official NPS sourceOfficial conditions for each destination
Latest NPS News
Browse the archiveNational Park Service Proposes Expanded Off-Road Vehicle Access in Big Cypress National Preserve
The National Park Service is proposing updates to special regulations for Big Cypress National Preserve that would make way for implementation of the 2010 Addition Lands General Management Plan (GMP). The National Park Service will carefully review public comments before making any final decisions.
Official NPS sourceVolunteer Fair at the Waterworks Offers Opportunities at Castillo de San Marcos
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument invites the public to attend a volunteer fair on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Waterworks, 184 San Marco Ave.
Official NPS sourceCanaveral National Seashore Invites Public Feedback on Plans to Strengthen Storm Resilience in Playalinda District
TITUSVILLE, Fla. — In the wake of recent hurricane and king tide event damage, Canaveral National Seashore invites public comment on the National Park Service’s plan to strengthen storm resilience and support visitor access in the Playalinda District.
Official NPS sourceTimucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve Finalizes Plans to Relocate the Fort Caroline Memorial
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve today announced it has finalized plans to relocate the Fort Caroline Memorial Exhibit. The park will create a new outdoor memorial near the park’s visitor center to commemorate the French settlers who tried to establish a colony in Florida in the 1560s. The project will address damage to the memorial from Hurricane Ian and reduce the memorial’s vulnerability to recurring flooding.
Official NPS sourceCastillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas National Monuments Welcome New Superintendent
The National Park Service has selected Angelita Alvino as the new superintendent of Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas National Monuments. Alvino has served as superintendent of the national parks of St. Croix for nearly five years and brings more than 25 years of NPS experience. She started her official role as superintendent on Aug. 23.
Official NPS sourceTimucuan Invites Feedback on Plans to Reduce Flood Risks for Kingsley Plantation Seawall and Shoreline Project
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve seeks public comment on its evaluation of potential flood impacts related to proposed shoreline and seawall repairs at Kingsley Plantation. The project aims to provide future storm resiliency by extending the seawall to the extent of the cultural landscape.
Official NPS sourceNational Park Service Expands Personal Watercraft Access at Gulf Islands National Seashore
The National Park Service today announced a final rule that expands recreational opportunities for personal watercraft (jet-ski) users at Gulf Islands National Seashore by reducing flat-wake zones in Mississippi and Florida.
Official NPS sourceEverglades National Park Reopens Shark Valley District After Wildfire Closure
Everglades National Park lifted the emergency closure for the Shark Valley District at 1 p.m. on Aug. 24. All public and administrative use of the area may resume after the closure from wildfires in the area.
Official NPS sourceU.S. Wildland Fire Service Firefighters are Working to Contain the Chipmunk and Vulture Fires in Everglades National Park
U.S. Wildland Fire Service firefighters are responding to several fires in Everglades National Park, including the Chipmunk and Vulture fires. The Chipmunk Fire was first reported Aug. 21 and is located about two miles southwest of Shark Valley. The lightning-caused fire is estimated to be approximately 9,232 acres and is 30% contained.
Official NPS sourceCanaveral National Seashore Repairs Historic Properties Through Disaster Supplemental Grant Program
TITUSVILLE, Fla. — Thanks to funding from the fiscal year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program, Canaveral National Seashore recently completed a major historic preservation project to repair damage caused by Hurricane Milton at three historic properties: Eldora House, Seminole Rest Main House and Seminole Rest Caretaker’s House.
Official NPS sourceU.S. Wildland Fire Service Wildland Firefighters are Working to Contain Bluegill Fire in Everglades National Park
Wildland firefighters from U.S. Wildland Fire Service with assistance from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and Florida Forest Service are responding to the Bluegill Fire, which was reported on Aug. 2 at approximately 11:30 a.m.
Official NPS sourceCastillo Seawall Project Begins in July
On July 27, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument will begin mobilizing for construction to replace, raise and rehabilitate the park’s failing seawalls and protect the historic fort and the broader St. Augustine community. Visitor access to the historic fort will be maintained throughout this project, which is expected to take approximately 18 months. Some areas on the fort grounds will be closed to ensure public safety during construction.
Official NPS sourceCastillo Visitor Parking Lot will Close to Vehicles on July 4 for Florida Freedom Tour
On July 4, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the city of St. Augustine will close vehicle access to the main visitor parking for the Florida Freedom Tour and Independence Day events.
Official NPS sourceBoca Chita Key Lighthouse Reopens at Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park today announced the reopening of the historic Boca Chita Key Lighthouse to public visitation following more than two years of closure for major repairs and restoration work.
Official NPS sourceU.S. Wildland Fire Service Responds to the Coptic Fire in Everglades National Park
On June 17, a wildfire started by lighting in the northeastern area of Everglades National Park. Named the Coptic Fire, it is now 4,793 acres in size with 40% containment. The fire is located approximately five miles south of U.S. Highway 41 and 3.2 miles west of the L-31N Canal and is burning primarily in prairie habitat.
Official NPS sourceEverglades National Park Joins Florida Python Challenge™ to Combat Invasive Burmese Pythons
Everglades National Park announced today its continued support and collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, the South Florida Water Management District and other partners for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge™. The annual python removal competition is a public initiative dedicated to raising awareness about invasive species and providing opportunities for the public to get involved in protecting the Everglades ecosystem by removing invasive Burmese pythons.
Official NPS sourceCanaveral National Seashore Opens Reservations for 2026 Turtle Watch Programs Sponsored by Friends of Canaveral
Canaveral National Seashore will open reservations on May 15 at 9 a.m. for Turtle Watch Programs.
Official NPS sourceU.S. Wildland Fire Service Continues Suppression of Highway 41 Fire in Everglades National Park
The Highway 41 Fire continues to burn and is now approximately 8,500 acres in size with 20% containment. The fire, which started on April 27, is located in the northeastern corner of Everglades National Park, south of U.S. Highway 41 and east of Shark Valley and the airboat concessions.
Official NPS sourceUpcoming NPS Events
NEXT 90 DAYSShip Island Excursions Ferry Service to Ship Island
Join a National Park Service ranger on a one-hour Ship Island Excursions ferry ride to Ship Island where you can have access to ranger-led programs in Fort Massachusetts and a private swim beach. The swim beach is a quarter of a mile walk on a boardwalk from the fishing pier. There is very little shade on the island and no transportation. Food and umbrellas are for purchase at an additional cost on the swim beach. No pets are allowed on the ferry. Fishing is only permitted on the sound side beach.
Official NPS sourcePensacola Bay City Ferry Service to Fort Pickens
Join a park ranger on a National Park Service ferry ride trip from Pensacola to Gulf Islands National Seashore's Fort Pickens Area then to Pensacola Beach. Once you arrive at Fort Pickens if you choose to get off, you will have a either 2.5 hours or 5 hours to recreate and enjoy the historic fortifications, private beaches, bike paths, fishing pier and visitor center. Ferry departure times from Fort Pickens to Pensacola Beachthree times a day.
Official NPS sourceSeashells (and a Murder Mystery) on Ship Island
Join a ranger for a guided beach walk and presentation on Ship Island in Mississippi and learn about what marine life reside in your favorite seashells and help solve the murder mystery of how the empty shells you collect came to be unoccupied. This is a walk up style event on Ship Island swim beach.
Official NPS sourceAdventure Through Davis Bayou: Ranger Led Hike
Join a park a park ranger on hike and interpretation of the local area. Topics include bayou, alligator, or medicinal plants. Meet at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center in Mississippi.
Official NPS sourceThe Spanish Are Coming! (FL Program)
The northern Gulf Coast is rich with stories about the American Revolution! To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, join a guide for a 30 minute talk to learn about the forgotten people, places, and events that shaped the founding of the United States of America. Note: Talks are accessible to people with special needs. Programs are subject to change and/or cancelation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances .
Official NPS sourceGuardian on the Gulf
Fort Pickens has stood on the Gulf Coast for over 190 years. Join a guide for a 30 minute talk to learn about this famed brick-and-mortar fortification and the people who lived and served within its storied walls. Note: Talks are accessible to people with special needs. Programs are subject to change and/or cancelation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances . Programs are not offered at times when the Blue Angels are scheduled to practice.
Official NPS sourceRanger's Choice Hike in Davis Bayou
Join a park ranger at Davis Bayou to learn about the medicinal plants of the Gulf Coast. Meet at the Wiliam M. Colmer visitor center in the Davis Bayou Area in Mississippi.
Official NPS sourceDavis Bayou Kayak Tour
Join a guide for a free 1 hour kayak tour on Davis Bayou. Meet behind the visitor center. Program will take place on Sundays. Lifevest provided and shoes required. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required call 228-230-4100.
Official NPS sourceTour of Battery Pensacola
Walk with a guide on a 45-minute tour of Battery Pensacola and discover how a young nation defended itself in a changing world. Meet inside historic Fort Pickens in Florida. Note: This tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, through dark walkways, and climbing stairs. Programs are subject to change and/or cancelation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances .
Official NPS sourceDarkest Before the Light: Fort Massachusetts Candlelight Tours
Gulf Islands National Seashore in partnership with Ship Island Excursions will host a special program, Darkest Before the Light: Fort Massachusetts Candlelight Tours Friday, Oct. 9. Join us for a special evening program where you and your group will be guided by candlelight through the arches of historic Fort Massachusetts on Ship Island. The ferry will depart promptly at 5 p.m. and return at 10 p.m. You will receive instructions prior to arrival via email.
Official NPS sourceRanger Talk at Fort Pickens
Join us for a 30-minute talk to learn about the history and legacy of Fort Pickens, as well as the natural and cultural heritage of Santa Rosa Island. Note: Ranger Talk at Fort Pickens programs are accessible to people with special needs. Programs are subject to change and/or cancellation due to weather and staff capacity .
Official NPS sourceStories of the Bayou Kayak Tour
Join Gulf Islands National Seashore and Walter Anderson Museum of Art for a special kayak tour of Davis Bayou inspired by stories from George Rodrigue, who used ecological resources that can be found in the park. Equipment provided free of charge, registration require and youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Official NPS sourceNational Parks & Federal Sites
11 DESTINATIONSNational Preserve
Big Cypress
The freshwaters of the Big Cypress Swamp, essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades, support the rich marine estuaries along Florida's southwest coast. Conserving over 729,000 acres of this vast swamp, Big Cypress National Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to diverse wildlife, including the Endangered Florida panther.
FloridaNational Park
Biscayne
Within sight of Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Evidence of 10,000 years of human history is here too; from prehistoric tribes to shipwrecks, and pineapple farmers to presidents. For many, the park is a boating, fishing, and diving destination, while others enjoy a warm breeze and peaceful scenery.
FloridaNational Seashore
Canaveral
Discover a dynamic barrier island shaped by dunes, coastal hammocks, and Mosquito Lagoon. Walk among ancient Timucua shell mounds and connect with thousands of years of human history. Immerse yourself in a protected sanctuary where diverse plants and wildlife thrive—making Canaveral National Seashore a place where nature, history, and discovery come together.
FloridaNational Monument
Castillo de San Marcos
Built by the Spanish in St. Augustine to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural intersections.
FloridaNational Memorial
De Soto
In May 1539, Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers, hired mercenaries, craftsmen, and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance of indigenous people protecting their homelands. De Soto’s quest for glory and gold would be a four year, four thousand mile odyssey of intrigue, warfare, disease, and discovery that would form the history of the United States.
FloridaNational Park
Dry Tortugas
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.
FloridaNational Park
Everglades
Established in 1947 as the first national park created for its biodiversity, Everglades National Park protects 1.5 million acres of wetland, forest, and marine habitats and the native plants and animals that call it home. With several international designations, the park provides a major source of drinking water for local residents of South Florida and recreational opportunities for all.
FloridaNational Memorial
Fort Caroline
At the settlement of la Caroline , French settlers struggled for survival in a new world. Many sought religious freedom in a new land, while others were soldiers or tradesmen starting a new life. The climactic battles fought here between the French and Spanish marked the first time that European nations fought for control of lands in what is now the United States. It would not be the last time.
FloridaNational Monument
Fort Matanzas
Fort Matanzas National Monument preserves the fortified coquina watchtower, completed in 1742, which defended the southern approach to the Spanish military settlement of St. Augustine. It also protects approximately 300 acres of Florida coastal environment containing dunes, marsh, maritime forest, and associated flora and fauna, including threatened and endangered species.
FloridaNational Seashore
Gulf Islands
Millions of visitors are drawn to the Gulf of America for Gulf Islands National Seashore's emerald coast waters, magnificent white beaches, fertile marshes and historical landscapes. Come explore with us today!
Florida · MississippiEcological & Historic Preserve
Timucuan
Visit one of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the Atlantic Coast. Discover 6,000 years of human history and experience the beauty of salt marshes, coastal dunes, and hardwood hammocks. The Timucuan Preserve includes Fort Caroline and Kingsley Plantation.
FloridaDestination directory sourced from NPS state listings, October 3, 2026. Official NPS directory
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