Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote U.S. national park located on a cluster of islands on the Tortugas Bank in the Gulf of Mexico, roughly 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. It was designated a national park in 1992 and is noted for its marine environment and the large brick fort that occupies Garden Key.

The park’s most prominent attraction is Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century masonry fort that dominates Garden Key and is open for tours and exploration. The park includes seven small islands, extensive coral reefs and seagrass beds, and popular snorkeling sites with clear water and reef life. Recreational highlights include snorkeling and swimming around reefs, observing seabird colonies, and exploring the fort and its ramparts.

Construction of Fort Jefferson began in the mid 19th century as a coastal fortress and never was fully completed; during the American Civil War it served as a Union military post and a federal prison. The islands and waters have been managed for conservation in the 20th and 21st centuries and the park protects both historic structures and extensive marine habitat.

The park sits on low, sandy islands on the Tortugas Bank in the Gulf of Mexico. It is isolated from the Florida Keys mainland, with the nearest city and departure point for visitor transport being Key West.

• Getting there: Access is by boat or seaplane only; scheduled ferries and private charters run from Key West and flights operate from Key West or Miami.
• Camping and services: Camping is available on Garden Key with a permit and limited sites; there are no shops or services on the islands so visitors must bring supplies.

What to See #

• Garden Key / Fort Jefferson: Occupies Garden Key, the site of the fort and main visitor facilities including the campground and docks.
• Loggerhead Key: The largest island in the park, it supports the 19th-century lighthouse and is farther from the main visitor landing areas.
• Bush Key: Small, seasonally closed to protect nesting seabirds and important for seabird colonies.