Details
Homestead, FL, 33034
National Park ServiceLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Garden Key, home to Fort Jefferson, has a primitive campground only a short walk from public dock and piers. Individual sites can accommodate up to three 2-person tents (6 persons max per-site) on a first-come, first served basis. In the event a regular campsite is unavailable, an overflow area will be made available. Upon arrival all overnight visitors will be provided a place to camp. For parties of 10 or more, a group campsite is available through our website.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Campgrounds are open 24/7 all year round including holidays.
Weather
It is always wise to check the weather before arriving at the Dry Tortugas. During the summer temperatures can rise into the 90s and during the winter temperatures can drop to the 50s. Summer storms are common and rough seas will happen during winter.
Amenities
Toilets
Staff or Host On-Site
Directions
Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote parks in the National Park System. Located approximately 70 miles west of Key West it is accessible only by a daily concession ferry, private boats, charter boats, or seaplane. There is no commercial airplane or car access to the island. Also if traveling to the island you need to make preparations for all needs as there are no facilities other than a small gift shop in the fort.
Rates & Fees
Garden Key Campground Fee
The campground is a self-service fee area with a nightly fee of $15 per campsite. A 50% discount applies to holders of the Golden Age or Golden Access Pass. No other discounts apply. Fees paid for transportation (seaplane or ferry) do not include camping fees.
Golden Age or Golden Access Pass
A 50% discount applies to holders of the Golden Age or Golden Access Pass.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Charcoal briquettes placed in campsite BBQ grills are only fires allowed. Gas camping stoves are permitted by the park, but commercial ferries do not permit them on board.Regulations Overview
Important tips and regulations: Be prepared for your visit. This is a primitive camping experience. Campers must provide for all their basic needs, including food, water, shelter, medication, and other essentials. Composting toilets are available, but all trash and garbage must be packed out. There are no showers. Space is limited- 3 tents and 6 campers are the maximum allowed per site Do not attach anything to a tree, including camping gear Wood fires are prohibited- Gas camping stoves or charcoal briquettes placed in campsite BBQ unites are the only fires allowed Protect your foodstuffs- store your food in hard-sized containers or hang it from the posts provided. Clear your campsite by 10:00 a.m.- Leave everything completely clean and clear. Carts are available to move your gear. Captains insist that you load your gear no later than 11:00 a.m.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Campsites are accessible by wheelchair as well as restrooms. Please note that campsites may be sandy and grassy.
Internet Information
There is no internet service at the Dry Tortugas.
Cell Phone Information
There is no cell phone service at the Dry Tortugas.
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
RVs and Trailers are not allowed on the Dry Tortugas.
RV Maximum Length
0
Additional Information
Rats have inhabited the Tortugas probably since the arrival humans. Though the size of the rat population is controlled, rats may be encountered as they forage through campsites looking for food. The only reliable way to protect your food and prevent damage to your gear is to store your food and food trash in hard-sided containers. Rats will chew through tents or backpacks if they smell food, and can also climb the provided handing posts. Grey water from dishwashing, etc. should go below the high tide line at the dinghy beach.
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
There is a ramp at the Fort Jefferson dock in which power chair/wheelchair can disembark from the boat. Camping sites are accessible and well as restrooms. There are no showers at the Dry Tortugas. The 19th century brick fort has three floors and wheelchairs are not able to get to the second and third tier. The fort is accessible only on the first tier on the grass surface or the brick walkway as well as the trail on the outside of the fort.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
No Roads
Classifications
Primitive Camping Areas
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