Interesting Facts About the Everglades National Park

Interesting Facts About the Everglades National Park

National Park Service

Florida's Everglades National Park is the largest sub-tropical park of its kind in the United States, and holds a full quarter of that state's wetlands within its borders. The climate, terrain and size make for an outdoor experience of the sort usually only found in foreign lands further south.

Size

The park covers roughly an enormous 2,335 square miles, and stands as the third largest national park in the United States.

Endangered Species

An alligator getting cozy with some turtles
An alligator getting cozy with some turtles

The Everglades are home to a large number of endangered creatures, including the American alligator, the Florida panther, various types of turtles, the Cape Sable sparrow, the Schaus swallowtail butterfly, the wood stork and the West Indian manatee.

Other Wildlife

The park also provides habitats for numerous non-endangered mammals and reptiles, including bobcats, bats, and 26 different species of snake.

Fishing Rules

Freshwater fishing in the park is very popular, but a Florida Freshwater License is required. It should be noted that the use of live or dead fish as bait is prohibited, as is digging for other kinds of bait while in the park.

Fees

In 2009, an annual pass was $25. The one-week pass was $10 per vehicle.

Camping

The park's frontcountry campgrounds are the Long Pine Key and Flamingo sites, which can accommodate RVs and in 2009 had a nightly fee of $16. Backcountry camping is allowed with a permit, which in 2009 was $10 plus $2 per person per night.

Article Written By Edwin Thomas

Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.

Write for Trails.com
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