Everglades National Park To Reopen

HOMESTEAD, FL — With a number of local and state parks set to reopen in Florida, the National Park Service has announced it will reopen Everglades National Park on Monday.

"Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local public health authorities, Everglades National Park is increasing recreational access," according to an agency announcement.

Entry fees to the park are also being temporarily waived but all visitors centers and public buildings will remain closed.

Don't miss updates about precautions in Florida as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

"I am pleased that we can be part of our community’s efforts to take incremental steps toward reopening," Park Superintendent Pedro Ramos said. "Our action to restore access to the park's main road and Flamingo provides additional opportunities for people to spread out a little more while practicing social distancing."

Visitors are urged to follow local health orders, including Miami-Dade County Emergency Order 21-20 for marinas, boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, and fishing piers. In addition, visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding and avoid high-risk outdoor activities.

The park will reopen access to the following areas on Monday:

• Main Park Road from the Homestead entrance to Flamingo (note exceptions below)
• External restrooms at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
• Flamingo Marina and boat launch ramps
• Flamingo Marina Store, restrooms, and gas pumps
• Flamingo Fish Cleaning Station and restroom
• Chekika Day Use Area (roads and surrounding area only)

The following areas continue to be available:

• Marine waters of Everglades National Park
• Beach campsites in wilderness

The following areas will remain closed for the time being:

• Royal Palm area including the Anhinga Trail
• Long Pine Key area and campground
• West Lake area
• All visitor centers and public buildings
• Concession tours and boat rentals
• All other park restrooms
• Other park locations such as Shark Valley and Gulf Coast