Main Page - Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park » Florida State Parks Official Site

A butterfly tree orchid in bloom on a buttonwood tree.

Manager's Message

The hotter summer months are here, so this is a great time to get out on our beautiful blue-green waters and visit our "big" island. Lignumvitae Key is 280 acres of tropical forest. With the summer rains, the hammock becomes very lush and green. By the end of the summer, the forest becomes so thick that you cannot see the sky when you are on the trails.

Gorgeous weather makes it a perfect time to visit; just make sure to bring sunscreen, plenty of fluids, outdoor attire and insect repellent. Of course, with the summer rains also comes mosquitoes, so be prepared.

- Melba Nezbed, Park Manager

Welcome to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

The virgin tropical hardwood hammock that thrives on this island was once common on most of Florida's Upper Keys; most of these forests have been lost to development on other islands. In 1919, William J. Matheson, a wealthy Miami chemist, bought this tiny island and built a caretaker's home with a windmill for electricity and a cistern for rainwater. Today, his hideaway is the visitor center for this island forest. Ranger-guided tours are given twice daily, Thursday through Monday. The park is accessible only by private boat or tour boat. Tour boat services, as well as boat and kayak rentals, are available from Robbie's Marina. For tour reservations call (305) 664-9814. Located one mile west of U.S. 1 at Mile Marker 78.5.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, please call 305-664-2540.

Hours of Operation

Park is open Thursday through Monday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tours of the historic Matheson House and grounds are available at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday.

Driving Directions

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is located one mile west of U.S.1 at Mile Marker 78.5. Access is by private boat or charter boats at nearby marinas.