Things to Do in Everglades National Park

Southern Florida’s Everglades National Park is America's third-largest national park and a vast and unique ecosystem covering over 1.5 million acres. Many consider the Everglades one of the most beautiful and fascinating swamps in the United States. There are many things to do in Everglades National Park, from wildlife viewing to camping to alligator tours and family-friendly hikes. 

This world-renowned park is celebrated for its diverse wildlife, which includes alligators, manatees, panthers, crocodiles, and bird species. It's crucial to be aware of the local wildlife, maintain a safe distance from alligators and other potentially dangerous animals, and use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes. Below, we’ll cover all the top Everglades National Park activities so you can ensure the most memorable trip possible. 

Key Takeaways

• The Everglades offer one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, with sawgrass marshes and dense mangrove forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, and coastal lowlands.
  
• The park is known for its scenery and wildlife, not its strenuous hiking. There are 24 easy walking trails, ideal for observing diverse habitats and creatures, including alligators, panthers, manatees, crocodiles, and more.
  
• Boating is one of the most popular ways to explore the Everglades, whether via kayak, canoe, or an iconic and thrilling airboat tour.
  
• For a unique overnight stay, visitors can camp on a Chickee, a floating dock for backpackers. Two equipped campgrounds are also within the park.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park has much to offer if you love wildlife and stunning landscapes. However, unlike other national parks, this isn’t a primary destination for avid hikers. There are 24 easy trails within the park for those wanting to stretch their legs, but don’t expect any grueling uphill treks. Most visitors come to discover diverse, dense habitats and observe wildlife, one of the top things to do at Everglades National Park. 

How Many Days Do You Need to Spend in Everglades National Park?

We recommend visitors spend at least two to three days in the park so you can cover the many remarkable things to do in the Florida Everglades. This allows ample time to visit key areas such as the Royal Palm, Anhinga Trail, Shark Valley, and Flamingo. With two to three days, you can experience family-friendly hikes, wildlife watching, airboat tours, canoeing, and more. 

Where to Stay in Everglades National Park

If you’re wondering what to do in the Everglades, you likely also need a place to stay. Whether you prefer the adventure of camping under the stars or the convenience of a nearby hotel, there are plenty of accommodations for all visitors. Stay in nearby cities such as Homestead, Florida City, and South Miami, or immerse yourself in the lush jungle by staying at one of the campgrounds within the park. Before you head out, make sure to go through our essential camping checklist and first aid checklist.

Camping Inside Everglades National Park

• Flamingo Campground: At the national park's southern tip, Flamingo Campground offers both front-country and backcountry camping options. This campground provides a range of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a marina. Visitors can choose from RV sites with electrical hookups, tent sites, or eco-tents. Here, you’ll have access to some of the best canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife-viewing opportunities in the Everglades.
  
• Long Pine Key Campground: Situated near Everglades National Park's main entrance, Long Pine Key Campground is a peaceful retreat surrounded by a beautiful pine rockland habitat. This campground is ideal for visitors seeking a more rustic camping experience, with sites available for tents and RVs (no hookups). It’s a perfect base for exploring nearby hiking trails, bird watching, and stargazing at night. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.
  
• Pearl Bay Chickee: The Pearl Bay Chickee is a unique camping platform in the remote backcountry of Everglades National Park. Accessible only by boat, this elevated wooden platform offers a rustic and adventurous overnight experience amidst the park's vast waterways and mangrove forests. The Chickee provides a sheltered tent-pitching area and includes a basic composting toilet. It's an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty and solitude of the Everglades while enjoying activities like fishing, birdwatching, and stargazing. See our backpacking checklist here.  

What to Wear When Visiting Everglades National Park

When visiting Everglades National Park, it’s important to be aware of the park’s subtropical environment. To stay cool and dry in Florida's humidity, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing made from moisture-wicking materials. Long-sleeve shirts and long pants are recommended to protect against sunburn and insect bites. Light colors are preferable, as they reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler. Feel agile and look sleek with KÜHL’s high-quality breathing clothing. Browse our women’s hiking clothing and men’s outdoor clothing. 

A wide-brim hat is also a good idea to provide extra sun protection for your face and neck. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is crucial for exploring the national park’s diverse terrains. Waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good traction are ideal for navigating wet, muddy areas and uneven trails. If you plan on wading or participating in water-based activities, consider wearing water shoes or sandals designed for outdoor use. 

What to Do And See in Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park has three main entrances, each with their own visitor center: Homestead (Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center), Miami (Shark Valley Visitor Center), and Everglades City Entrance (Gulf Coast Visitor Center). You’ll find a rich assortment of activities and sights in each center for nature enthusiasts and adventurers, with flat, easy trails, lush mangrove forests along the coast, sawgrass marshes teeming with aquatic species, and more. All the stunning scenery makes it a great spot for landscape photography. Below are our top recommendations for Everglades sightseeing. 

Walk the Anhinga Trail

The Anhinga Trail is one of the most popular Everglades National Park things to do and lies within the centrally located Royal Palm Park. It offers a close-up view of the park's diverse wildlife. This easy, half-mile trail is mostly a boardwalk, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Keep your eyes peeled for various Florida birds along the trail, including the namesake Anhinga, turtles, alligators, and fish in the freshwater slough. The trail is especially rewarding during the dry season (December to April) when wildlife congregates around the remaining water sources.

Boat Around the Ten Thousand Islands

The Ten Thousand Islands area is a maze of mangroves and waterways that provide a unique opportunity to explore the national park by water. Boat tours are available, ranging from guided eco-tours to adventurous kayaking excursions. These tours are one of the Everglades’ main attractions and often include opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and many bird species. Some tours even allow for stops at secluded islands, where visitors can shell, fish, or enjoy the pristine beaches. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards at nearby rental shops. 

Visit Shark Valley for Scenic Views and Wildlife

Shark Valley is one of the top places to visit in the Everglades. Located at the park's northern tip, the Shark Valley Tram Tour provides a two-hour guided tour along a 15-mile loop. It starts at the visitor center of the same name and stops at the Shark Valley Observation Tower. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the "River of Grass." You can bike or walk the loop, providing a closer look at the park's flora and fauna, including alligators basking in the sun and a variety of bird species. It’s a fantastic spot to see U.S. fish and wildlife. 

Go Fishing in Mangroves, Marshes, and Coastal Waters

Fishing is one of the most popular Everglades activities. This national park offers an unparalleled experience for anglers, set against the backdrop of one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. The park's diverse habitats, including freshwater marshes, mangrove forests, and coastal waters, provide ample opportunities to catch fish species such as snook, tarpon, redfish, and snapper. Fishing is legal in most parks besides visitor centers and a few other areas. Check the National Park System website to ensure you have the necessary Florida state fishing licenses. 

Take an Airboat Tour Though Grass and Lily-Covered Water

Exploring the Everglades swamps by airboat is arguably one of the most iconic and popular Everglades attractions. These metal boats have large fans that propel them forward and offer a thrilling ride over the water. An airboat tour is a more exhilarating way to explore the park, and its engine can be quite loud. If you’re looking for a calming, quiet stroll through nature, you may prefer a guided kayak or canoe tour. However, if you’re up for some noisy excitement, many visitors believe this is one of the best things to do in the Everglades, FL. 

Paddle Through Nine Mile Pond Trail  

This picturesque route features stunning views of some of Florida’s most beautiful lakes, marshy mangroves, and frequent alligator sightings. It’s 5.5 miles long and takes approximately 5 hours to complete; this loop trail offers both guided tours and opportunities for experienced paddlers to venture independently. Expect challenges, such as maneuvering through mangrove tunnels, but the well-marked trail ensures a safe experience. Many consider this an Everglades must-see. 

Sharpen Your Photography Skills at Mahogany Hammock and Beyond

Mahogany Hammock is a prime spot for photography enthusiasts. The short boardwalk trail through this dense hardwood hammock offers opportunities to capture stunning images of ancient mahogany trees, lush foliage, and the diverse wildlife that inhabits this unique ecosystem. It’s a must-visit location for visitors looking to capture the endless natural beauty of the Everglades.

Check Out Exhibits At One of Three Visitor Centers 

This Florida park has three visitor centers, each offering unique insights into the park’s ecology, history, and recreation through interactive and informative exhibits. Because of the park's immense size, it’s difficult to visit all three visitor centers in one day. Shark Valley Visitor Center is the most popular because of its access to tram tours, biking, walking trails, and ranger programs. However, each center provides access to unique information and landscapes.

Final Thoughts

Everglades National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and ecosystems. From the iconic airboat tours to more serene canoe and paddling, there are endless opportunities to enjoy this swampy habitat teeming with alligators, manatees, panthers, and more. Consider visiting during the dry season for the most comfortable weather, the fewest mosquitoes, and the most active wildlife. Two to three days will offer ample time to visit its various and unique scenic sections, from Shark Valley to the Anhinga Trail to Ten Thousand Islands. Be aware that this park primarily offers opportunities to view its stunning beauty but isn’t known for its lengthy, challenging hikes. However, this family-friendly destination is a must-see for any nature enthusiast who is looking to experience its world-renowned subtropical wetland scenery.

Featured image by: Studio Barcelona.