Camping, Full Facility

Located in the Florida Keys, the park's 60 campsites all overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, ground grill, water and electricity. Three restrooms, with hot showers, are centrally located. Also provided is a dump station. Well behaved pets are welcome in the campground.

Ranger programs are available. Please check at the Ranger Station for dates and times. Canoe rentals are available for a leisurely paddle through the park's shallow-water lagoon.

Maximum RV length = 45 ft.

Reservations: Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book Online or call (800) 326-3521 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) or TDD (888) 433-0287.

Canoeing & Kayaking

One of three nature trails in the park, the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely 'paddle' through the park’s shallow-water lagoon. Canoe rentals and a self-guided brochure are available for this hour-long journey.

Fishing

Some of the best sport fishing in the Florida Keys are popular year-round. A saltwater fishing license may be required. 

Hiking/Nature Trail

In addition to the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail, the park offers two land-based nature trails for visitors to explore. The "Golden Orb Trail," named after a native spider, is a leisurely 40-minute walk through several plant communities. The "Layton Trail" is located on the bay side of the park and takes 15 minutes to walk.

Participation Requirements

Interpretive Exhibit

A two-hour guided walk along the "Golden Orb Trail" is offered every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Every Thursday, the park offers a Ranger's Choice program at 10:00 a.m. These programs may consist of guided-walks, birding, photography, Florida's Native Americans, canoeing, and Florida's unique wildlife. Programs are subject to Ranger availability and weather conditions. Please check at the Ranger Station.

Pets

Pets are not allowed on beaches, along the natural shoreline, in picnic shelters, or in the restrooms. In the areas where pets are allowed, they must be on a six-foot hand held leash and be well behaved at all times. For more information, see the Official Pet Policy.

Picnicking

Picnic areas are available with a scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Showers, Day Visitors

Public outdoor showers are provided.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is available in designated areas. The water in the park is generally shallow and the bottom covered with seagrass.

Swimming

Swimming is available in designated areas. In general, the water is shallow and the currents and waves gentle.

Wildlife Viewing

The park is a designated location on The Great Florida Birding Trail, and provides an exceptional opportunity for birding. Wading and shorebirds can be found year-round; while migratory birds seasonally bolster the viewing experience. Herons, egrets, and ibis are common. Lucky visitors may find a white-crowned pigeon or roseate spoonbill.

The shoreline and canoe trail visitors occasionally observe horseshoe crabs, mullet, snapper and starfish. Sportfish include bonefish and redfish in our shallow grass flats. Canoers and kayakers have seen loggerhead and green sea turtles during a paddle.