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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Garden Key Campground

Long Key, Florida · Monroe County · Campground

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. …

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24.62701, -82.87341
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Garden Key Campground

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High83°F
Avg Low80°F
Peak Rain Chance52%
Humidity76%
UV (avg)7
Air Quality28 · Good
Today
Thunderstorm
83°/82°
💧 9%🌬 8mph
6:42 AM8:15 PM
Mon
Thunderstorm
83°/82°
💧 6%🌬 12mph
6:42 AM8:16 PM
Tue
🌧
Rain Showers
83°/81°
💧 20%🌬 15mph
6:42 AM8:16 PM
Wed
🌦
Light Drizzle
83°/80°
💧 46%🌬 16mph
6:42 AM8:17 PM
Thu
🌧
Rain Showers
82°/77°
💧 52%🌬 20mph
6:42 AM8:17 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Garden Key Campground

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.

How to Get There

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.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.
  • Rain jacket / shell
    52% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 7)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Garden Key Campground

Heading to Garden Key Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Garden Key Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Garden Key Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/258728) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Garden Key Campground?

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 …

How do I contact Garden Key Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: (305) 242-7700 or email: drto_information@gmail.com.