Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands. In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be: On a leash no longer than 6 feet Under control at all times Kept out of wildlife areas and water These rules are in place to protect: Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals) Fragile ecosystems Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here) If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Boating

In the 10,000 Islands & Everglades National Park

Step into the enchanting world of boating in the magnificent 10,000 Islands! It’s an experience like no other. But before you set sail, let’s make sure you’re equipped with some valuable knowledge.

Knowing the waters and understanding the tides are essential components of a successful day out on the waves. Our waters can be deceptively shallow, which might prove challenging for even the most experienced boaters, not to mention first-time visitors.

Don’t fret, we’re here to lend a helping hand and share our insights to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time exploring the 10,000 Islands.

Boating Rules

Park Pass Required

Boaters Course Required

Keep in mind that if you’re setting sail from Everglades City or Chokoloskee (two of our favorite fishing spots), you’ll be cruising through the beautiful Everglades National Park. To fish in Everglades National Park waters, you must take and pass a free Boater Safety Course online.

This one-hour course is mandatory for both visitors and residents, and Park Rangers are strictly enforcing it with ticketing.

Boater Education

Free Boater Test

Boat Docks & Ramps

Between Everglades City & Chokoloskee

Gulf Coast Visitor Center boat launch Website | Map

Everglades City

Behind Rod & Gun Club Website | Map

Behind Glades Haven General Store Website | Map

Beside Captains Table Hotel & Restaurant Website | Map

Chokoloskee

The Fishing Hole (Boat Ramp) Map

Between Naples & Everglades City

Port of the Islands Website | Map

Manatee Protection Zones / No Wake Zones

The FWC restricts the speed and operation of vessels where necessary to protect manatees from harmful collisions with vessels and from harassment. Help us protect the Manatee by knowing and following the speed limits.

No Wake Rules

Area Tide Data

Build Your Own Everglades Experience

Design your visit around what matters most to you — history, nature, dining, or relaxation. Mix, match, and map your perfect Everglades escape.

Build My Itinerary →

Where To Go

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands.

In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be:

On a leash no longer than 6 feet
Under control at all times
Kept out of wildlife areas and water

These rules are in place to protect:

Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals)
Fragile ecosystems
Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here)

If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Yes. They’re close enough that many visitors do both in one day. It’s an easy way to experience two very different sides of the Ten Thousand Islands area.
Helpful pages: Goodland | Everglades City

No. Goodland is a working waterfront village, not a beach town. Visitors looking for sandy beaches usually head to Marco Island or other nearby areas.

Helpful page: Goodland

Can I fly my drone in Everglades National Park?

No, drones and other unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park, or any other National Park Service site. This includes model airplanes, quadcopters, etc. (nps.gov)

Keywadin Island is only accessible by boat. People reach it from several nearby launches, including Marco Island, Everglades City, and Port of the Islands, depending on where they’re coming from and the conditions. While the island is undeveloped, there are trash cans placed in popular areas, and on busy days boat-based vendors often come by selling items like ice cream, drinks, and simple food. Visitors should still plan ahead by bringing water, sun protection, and anything they’ll need for the day, and always pack out personal trash and respect the natural setting.

Where can I park my car if I’m leaving in a boat for an extended trip?

Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Can I reserve the Mcleod Park for an event?

To Reserve the City Park for an Event contact the City Clerk at (239) 695-4558 or email: Dsmallwood@cityofeverglades.org (CityofEverglades.org)

How long does it take to get out to the ocean from Port of the Islands

It usually takes around 45 minutes to cruise from the Port of the Islands to the ocean. The journey includes navigating through a long, no-wake zone canal, providing a delightful and unhurried ride. Bring a cover for sun protection during this slow and scenic route. About half an hour in, you’ll arrive at the expansive and naturally beautiful mangroves before reaching the open waters of the ocean.

The Everglades isn’t something you just drive through and check off a list. The best way to experience it is to slow down. Walk a boardwalk trail, spend time on the water, or explore with someone who knows the area. A mix of trails, scenic drives, and guided tours gives you a much better feel for this place than any single stop.
Helpful pages:

Things To Do | Parks | Boat Tours

In Port of the Islands, where can I park if I’m going out on the water?

You can park in the parking lot by Port of the Islands Marina. Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Chokoloskee is a small island community just across the bridge from Everglades City. It sits right on the edge of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, surrounded by water, mangroves, and backcountry routes.

Helpful Pages: Chokoloskee

Goodland is a small waterfront fishing village located between Marco Island and Everglades City. It sits on the edge of the Ten Thousand Islands and is surrounded by water, mangroves, and working docks.
Helpful page: Goodland

Ochopee is a small rural community along Tamiami Trail (US-41), east of Everglades City, right in the heart of the Everglades. It’s not a town in the traditional sense — more a stretch of road where long-time families still live and work.

Helpful page: Ochopee

Where can I hunt in Everglades National Forrest?

Hunting is permitted exclusively in Big Cypress Preserve. Visit our hunting page for more details.

Boating

In the 10,000 Islands & Everglades National Park

Boaters Course Required

Boat Docks & Ramps

Between Everglades City & Chokoloskee

Everglades City

Chokoloskee

Between Naples & Everglades City

Manatee Protection Zones / No Wake Zones

Area Tide Data

Build Your Own Everglades Experience

Where To Go

Collier Seminole State Park Naples

Everglades Rod & Gun Club

Glades Haven Convenience Store

Marjory Stoneman Douglas Visitor Center (Gulf Coast)

Port of the Islands Marina

The Fishing Hole (Boat Ramp)

FAQ’s

Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

Can I visit Goodland and Everglades City in the same day?

Does Goodland have beaches?

Drones in the Park?

How to get to Keywadin Island, and what should I bring?

Long Term Parking in Port of the Islands

Reserve Mcleod Park?

Trip Time to the Ocean From Port of the Islands

What are the best ways to experience the Everglades?

Where can I park in Port of the Islands

Where is Chokoloskee located?

Where is Goodland located?

Where is Ochopee located?

Which Park to Hunt

Boating

In the 10,000 Islands & Everglades National Park

Boaters Course Required

Boat Docks & Ramps

Manatee Protection Zones / No Wake Zones

Area Tide Data

Sea Tow

Sea Tow

Build Your Own Everglades Experience

Where To Go

FAQ’s