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 ©2006 Publications International, Ltd. |
Dry Tortugas National Park
PO Box 6208
Key West, FL 33041
305-242-7700
www.nps.gov/drto
Dry Tortugas is one of the most remote national parks in the lower 48 states. Set in the Gulf of Mexico about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, the park protects 100 square nautical miles of sea, sand, and coral reefs around seven tiny islands known as the Dry Tortugas. Visitors may reach the park only by boat or seaplane and must bring all necessary food, water, and shelter with them.
Entrance fees: $5/adult for seven days
Visitor center: The visitor center is open year-round.
Other services: Boat pier and campround
Accommodations: Garden Key Campground. First-come, first-served.
Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park
Ponce de Leon sailed through the waters off the southwestern coast of Florida in 1513 and, noting the abundance of sea turtles, named them Las Tortugas ("the turtles"). They later became known as the Dry Tortugas, owing to the lack of fresh water.
The centerpiece of the park is Fort Jefferson, the largest brick and masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere and the biggest fort still standing from the 19th century. From the standpoint of natural history, the park is important to the region in that it protects seven coral islands -- the Dry Tortugas, the most pristine coral reef in the continental United States.
 ©2006 National Park Services Fort Jefferson, the largest coastal fort in the United States, occupies most of Garden Key and now houses the Dry Tortugas National Park visitor center. See more pictures of Dry Tortugas National Park. |
Established: 1992 Size: 64,700 acres Terrain: Seven islands, coral reefs, and 100 square nautical miles of the Gulf of Mexico Highlights: Fort Jefferson and Garden Key Wildlife: Migratory birds, sea turtles, and saltwater fish. Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, bird-watching, and camping |
