Most people are aware of Florida’s tourist attractions from incredible state parks, amusements parks, and of course the beaches. However, many people are unaware that here in the Sunshine states holds one of the most secluded national parks in the world.
Just beyond Key west lies Dry Tortugas National Park.
The secluded dry land holds Fort Jefferson one of the nations largest 19th century forts in the United States. It’s identified as a dry island as there is no access to fresh drinking water on the islands.
The island is 70 miles west of Key West establishing a 100-square mile park and has remained a part of history since its its discovery by Ponce de Leon in 1513.
You can take the journey across the seas by popular ferry ride. Keep in mind the trip can take over two hours so bring some entertainment with you. Along with any medication if you easily get seasick as the waters can be rocky. Or you can fly in style and take a plan across the waters that cuts the time by more than half, and gives you an amazing view of the fort.
It’s a very popular national park and isn’t necessarily a hidden gem, but it offers a unique experience when you decided to spend the night which makes it a gem in itself.
The national park allows people to spend the night in designated campgrounds for a primitive camping experience. Primitive meaning there is no electricity, running water, bathroom facilities, and particularity with Dry Tortuga, cell service.
It leaves you isolated, with park rangers and the cost guard to assist in any medical emergency, but other than that you are on your own. With 10 campgrounds to chose from you can end up finding a spot on your own if you are truly looking for a way to escape.
I recommend this for travelers who are experienced and have camped before. Choosing this location for your first time camping might be overwhelming. However, for the experienced primitive camper this location surrounds you in ocean and leaves you to do as you wish. The fort is closed in the duration of night but that doesn’t keep you from looking at the night sky covered in stars.
What is there to do?
Well once you pay the entrance fee of $15.00 you are given gently used scuba gear. It’s something I highly recommend. it allows you to see the clear ocean waters and see the sea life all around you. Keep an eye out for turtles as the island was named for their vas numbers years ago.
Explore the Fort
The fort offers guided tours around the area. It explains the history of the fort and it gives a lot of information on the surrounding islands as well.
Or if you want to go solo you can avoid the tours and go on your own, they don’t require you to take a tour. They encourage you to explore, with caution of course.
Camp the night!
Again with primitive camping you are left to bring your own food and water but to see the ocean and the night sky in pure darkness it an amazing experience. I highly recommended the disconnect with the world and spend a night or two.
To visit Dry Tortuga offers an experience you will be craving to relive again and again. To explore history itself and see what it was like to live in a different century can never be replaced. It’s a hidden gem from the mainland and I hope you considered taking the journey to see it in person.
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