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National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

Park ClosureMay 27, 2026

Seasonal Closure: Bush Key

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A few of the stars at night with a view of Fort Jefferson.

The Dry Tortugas is so remote that night sky viewing is possible.

Photo: NPS Photo / Brett Seymour

About

Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.

Activities

AstronomyStargazingBoatingBoat TourCampingFishingGuided ToursHands-OnVolunteer VacationPaddlingJunior Ranger ProgramSCUBA DivingSnorkeling
Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store

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.

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Weather

The climate in the Dry Tortugas is subtropical, which basically means that it has warm and tropical weather in the range of 60°F to 90°F. The two main seasons are the winter stormy season from December through March which is windier and sees rougher seas, and the summertime tropical storm season from June through November where there is a higher chance of isolated storms. During the summers it is hot and humid. During the winter the temperature is milder and drier.

News

National Park Service Archeologists Identify Original Burial Site of 19th-Century Soldier at Dry Tortugas
Mar 31, 2026

National Park Service Archeologists Identify Original Burial Site of 19th-Century Soldier at Dry Tortugas

National Park Service archeologists have identified the original burial site of Private George Tupper, a 22-year-old U.S. Army soldier and the only known service member buried within the walls of Fort Jefferson on Garden Key.

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Per Person$15.00