Wilderness Camping

 
A raised platform above water, with trees and a blue sky in the background. There is a portable toilet on the platform and 2 covered camping areas.
Sweetwater Chickee wilderness campsite in Everglades National Park

NPS / Jane Gamble

Plan Your Wilderness Trip

Wilderness permits are required for all overnight camping in the backcountry.

Campers can make advanced reservations through Recreation.gov. Advanced reservations are available on a rolling basis, three months in advance of the start date.

Your Recreation.gov confirmation email will serve as your permit. Please print a copy or save a digital copy of your reservation and carry that with you during your trip. You are no longer required to pick up a physical permit.

There is a $21 administrative fee plus an additional $2 per person, per night use fee. The costs will apply for advanced reservations and walk-up permits year-round. A credit card is needed for both online and in-person permit reservations.

Remember: Most wilderness campsites are only accessible by water. Use the Wilderness Trip Planner to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.

Practice Leave No Trace principles, including "pack-it-in, pack-it-out."

Plan to bring all your needed supplies and leave with all belongings including waste. Be aware that many sites do not have restrooms and those that do are not always serviced regularly.
Feeding wildlife anywhere in the park is prohibited. If wildlife associate humans with food, they may exhibit more aggressive behaviors.


 

Other Important Information

Visit our "Frequently Asked Questions" page to learn more about wilderness camping reservations and permits.

 

Updates on Wilderness Conditions

Last updated: September 24, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034-6733

Phone:

305 242-7700

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