What if you could visit a national park that’s 99% underwater and home to one of America’s largest 19th-century coastal fortresses? Have you ever wondered what it’s like to explore crystal-clear waters surrounding a massive brick fortress that once housed Civil War prisoners? Could you imagine snorkeling through pristine coral reefs while historical cannons watch silently from above? Welcome to Dry Tortugas National Park, where history meets marine adventure in the most spectacular way possible.
Fort Jefferson stands as the crown jewel of Americas marine fortresses with its 16 million bricks
Located 70 miles west of Key West, Fort Jefferson dominates Garden Key with its hexagonal structure spanning 47 acres. Built between 1846 and 1875, this massive fortress represents the largest brick masonry structure in the Americas. The fort’s walls rise 45 feet high and are 8 feet thick, creating an imposing presence that once housed over 2,000 military personnel. Today, visitors can explore its gun rooms, powder magazines, and the parade ground while learning about its role in protecting the Gulf of Mexico shipping channel.
The pristine waters around the fortress hold some of the most diverse marine life in North America
The park’s underwater realm boasts visibility often exceeding 100 feet, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. More than 67 species of coral and 300 species of fish call these waters home. The moat wall surrounding Fort Jefferson serves as an artificial reef, creating a unique ecosystem where history and marine life converge. Recent surveys have documented healthy populations of elkhorn and staghorn coral, species that have become rare elsewhere in Florida.
Exclusive access by boat or seaplane creates an intimate experience few national parks can match
With only about 80,000 visitors annually – compared to millions at other national parks – Dry Tortugas offers an uncrowded experience. The ferry service, Yankee Freedom III, makes daily trips from Key West, accommodating up to 175 passengers. Alternatively, seaplane services provide a breathtaking 40-minute flight, with aerial views of shipwrecks and marine life. This limited accessibility helps preserve the park’s pristine condition and creates an exclusive atmosphere for visitors.
The surrounding Marine Protected Area safeguards some of Floridas most vital coral reef systems
Established in 2007, the Research Natural Area covers 46 square miles of the park’s waters. This no-take ecological reserve has shown remarkable success in protecting marine resources. Studies indicate a 60% increase in fish populations within the protected area since its establishment. The area serves as a living laboratory for scientists studying coral reef resilience and marine ecosystem recovery.
Modern camping facilities allow visitors to experience the fortress under starlit skies
The park offers primitive camping on Garden Key, with 8 designated sites accommodating up to 6 people each. Campers experience something truly unique: nights under some of the darkest skies in Florida, with the Milky Way visible on clear nights. The camping area provides picnic tables, grills, and composting toilets. All supplies must be brought in, and all trash must be packed out, emphasizing the park’s commitment to preservation.