Garden Key Campground — Dry Tortugas National Park
S
Reviewed Jul. 4, 2018

like none other

A wonderfully unique experience. Accessible by boat or seaplane only - 8 sites nestled in a little grove outside the Fort. When you reserve your ferry ride you also reserve a space in the campground although not a specific site. The ferry company also has perks for campers that are "included" in the ferry ride: a box lunch, water, can restock on ice for a small cooler if you bring one when the ferry comes in the next day, snorkeling equipment. There are carts at the dock to transport gear to the camping area only about 1/4 mile away. No fires allowed - we used a sterno stove to heat water for coffee in the morning.

Our site was very private - most are. Bathrooms nearby are pit toilets for campers only when the ferry is not in dock. There is NO water on the island - can refill when the ferry is in dock. The snorkeling is really wonderful and very special once the ferries and seaplanes leave for the day and you have the island pretty much to yourself - magical. During the day you can take Ranger led tours of the Fort and just hang out, bird watch relax, etc. There are a LOT of hermit crabs and one can hear scurrying of rats at night - although they are not an issue especially as there are food poles provided at each site.

It's an experience I'm SO glad we did - 2 nights was enough for us - it's a small island but 2 nights gave us a good exposure. We're in our 60's and active if that is any framework for anybody.

Month of VisitApril