Reaching Elliott Key requires a boat. There are no roads, no bridges, and no drive-up access of any kind. This tent-only campground sits within Biscayne National Park, a unit where, as one reviewer put it, the park is "almost entirely water," making the crossing feel less like a detour and more like the point of the trip.
Once on the island, the forested interior provides shade and cover, which matters during Florida's storm-prone summers. Campers who have visited note that a covered shelter with picnic tables offers a dry retreat when weather moves in, and it does move in. The group site has accommodated around 18 people, though crowding has come up in multiple reviews, suggesting that arriving early or timing a visit outside peak weekends is worth considering. Snorkeling conditions can vary, with some visitors reporting cloudy water and limited fish visibility, while kayaking and fishing have drawn more consistent praise.
Drinking water and toilets are available on-site. Pets are permitted, and for those planning a multi-stop trip, pet-friendly camping near Biscayne National Park extends the options across the broader park area. Boca Chita Key — Biscayne National Park is another boat-in option roughly five miles to the north. No reservations are required, so flexibility helps, but it also means sites are not guaranteed. Come with enough fuel, food, and gear for the duration since there is no resupply once you arrive.
Description
Overview
Eliott Key is only accessible by boat. No services are available on the island. Elliott Key is the park's largest island. Restrooms with sinks and cold water showers, picnic tables and grills are available. Drinking water is available, but bring water as a precaution if the system goes down. There are 33 boat slips in the marina. This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. There is limited cellular connectivity at this location. Please download the free Recreation.gov mobile app and create an account prior to arrival.
Recreation
Daytime use and overnight camping - the campground is located on the Biscayne Bay side. Overnight camping and docking fees are required. Picknicking - tables and barbecue grills are available in the campground and marina. Hiking - a mile-long loop trail starts near the campground. Also, "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. It affords a good opportunity to see a variety of habitats in the martime forest. Fishing - permitted from the maintenance dock (south of the harbor) or from the shoreline outside of the no-wake zone. Fishing regulations apply.
Facilities
Camping - the campground is located on the Biscayne Bay side. Overnight camping and docking fees are required. Picknicking - tables and barbecue grills are available in the campground and marina. Restrooms - cold water showers are available. Fresh drinking water is located outside the building. It is recommended that you bring your own fresh water, just in case the generator breaks down. Hiking - a mile-long loop trail starts near the campground. Also, "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. It affords a good opportunity to see a variety of habitats in the martime forest. Fishing - permitted from the maintenance dock (south of the harbor) or from the shoreline outside of the no-wake zone. Fishing regulations apply. Things to Remember - Mosquitoes and no-see-ums (biting midges) are prevalent year round. Pack out all trash. There are no sales facilities Boats may dock among 33 slips. Pets on a leash are permitted in the developed areas of Elliott Key. Pets may not be left unattended.
Natural Features
The largest island in the park was once a thriving community of pioneers engaged in pineapple farming, sponging, wrecking, and other pursuits. Today the island offers camping, picnicking, wildlife watching and a hiking trail. A mile-long loop trail starts near the campground. Also, "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. It affords a good opportunity to see a variety of habitats in the martime forest.
Nearby Attractions
Elliott Key is located just south of Boca Chita Key.
Charges & Cancellations
Ensure one of the designated campsites is available prior to paying. Once payment is made on-site, we do not offer refunds or modifications.
Fee Info
Fees are required for overnight camping and docking and must be paid upon arrival or by sunset if camping. As of January 1, 2024 there is a $25 docking fee Friday - Monday and Federal Holidays and must be paid upon arrival. Campers that dock a boat Friday-Monday are required to pay both the camping and docking fee. The campground overnight camping fee is $35 and must be paid by sunset if camping.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsElliott Key is located in Florida near Cutler Bay
Directions
Elliott Key is only accessible by boat. Use of a nautical chart and/or GPS is recommended for safe navigation.
Coordinates
25.4531661 N
80.1964384 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/7/26
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/7/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
