Travel with Your Dog to Everglades National Park: A Friendly Guide

Before you buy a ticket for you and your dog, you should know that you can bring them to the Everglades National Park, but with some restrictions. While pets are allowed in certain areas of the park, they are not permitted on most trails due to concerns about wildlife safety. However, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the park with your dog, from scenic drives to boat tours and more.

Everglades National Park is vast wilderness, located in southern Florida, that is a home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees. With over 1.5 million acres to explore, there’s no shortage of opportunities for outdoor recreation and sightseeing.

Can I Bring my dog to the Everglades National Park?

What is the fine for bringing a dog?

According to the park’s website, the fine for bringing a dog into a prohibited area is $125. So, make sure you know where your dog is allowed before entering the park to avoid any fines.

I have a Service Dog

If you have a service dog, you are allowed to bring them into the park with you. However, you need to make sure that your dog is properly trained and certified as a service animal. You may be asked to provide documentation of your dog’s certification, so it’s a good idea to have that information readily available.

When bringing your dog to the Everglades National Park, it’s important to keep them on a leash at all times and to clean up after them. This will ensure that you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable experience in the park. Remember, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, so it’s important to respect their space and not disturb them.

Where Can I Go With My Dog at the Park?

Developed Areas

Dogs are allowed in developed areas of the park, such as campgrounds and picnic areas. However, they must be on a leash that is no longer than six feet at all times. It’s important to clean up after your dog and dispose of waste in designated trash cans.

Trails

Dogs are not allowed on any trails in Everglades National Park, including backcountry trails and boardwalks. This is to protect the park’s wildlife and ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. If you’re looking to do some hiking, there are plenty of other pet-friendly trails in the surrounding area.

Nearby Dog Kennels

1. Pet Paradise

Pet Paradise is a well-known dog kennel located in Naples, Florida, just a short drive from Everglades National Park. This kennel offers a range of services including boarding, daycare, grooming, and training. Your dog will have access to indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as a pool for swimming. Pet Paradise also offers webcam access so you can check in on your furry friend at any time.

2. Dog Dude Ranch

Dog Dude Ranch is another great option for pet owners visiting Everglades National Park. Located in nearby Homestead, Florida, this kennel offers boarding, daycare, and grooming services. Your dog will have access to indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as a pool for swimming. Dog Dude Ranch also offers a pet taxi service, so you can easily drop off and pick up your furry friend.

3. The Pet Nanny

The Pet Nanny is a family-owned and operated dog kennel located in Miami, Florida, just a short drive from Everglades National Park. This kennel offers boarding and daycare services, as well as grooming and training. Your dog will have access to indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as a pool for swimming. The Pet Nanny also offers a pet taxi service, so you can easily drop off and pick up your furry friend.

Pet-Friendly Camping

Campgrounds

There are two campgrounds in the park that allow pets: Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground. Long Pine Key Campground is located about 7 miles from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center and offers 108 drive-in sites for tents and RVs. Flamingo Campground is located at the southern end of the park and offers 235 drive-in sites for tents and RVs.

Rules and Regulations

When camping with your pet, there are a few rules and regulations that you must follow. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times, and they are only allowed in certain areas of the campgrounds. These areas include roadways open to public vehicular traffic, roadside campground and picnic areas, maintained grounds surrounding public facilities and residential areas, and on private boats.

Pet-Friendly Activities

While pets are limited in where they can go in the park, there are still plenty of pet-friendly activities to enjoy. Take a scenic drive through the park and stop at one of the many roadside picnic areas for a picnic with your furry friend. You can also explore the park’s waterways by renting a canoe or kayak and taking your pet along for the ride.

Nearby Dog-Friendly Hotels

Maria’s Los Cirhuelos Homestead

Located just a short drive from the park, Maria’s Los Cirhuelos Homestead is a charming bed and breakfast that welcomes dogs of all sizes. You and your pup can relax in one of the cozy guest rooms or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the property.

Ivey House

Another great option for pet owners is the Ivey House, which offers comfortable guest rooms and a range of amenities for both you and your dog. You can take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary breakfast each morning before heading out to explore the park with your furry friend.

Rodeway Inn & Suites

For a budget-friendly option, consider the Rodeway Inn & Suites, which welcomes dogs of all sizes for a small additional fee. The hotel offers comfortable guest rooms and a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.