Long Pine Key Campground

For Florida locals, the vast and unique wilderness of Everglades National Park represents an unparalleled opportunity for outdoor adventure and deep connection with nature. Within this iconic landscape, Long Pine Key Campground stands out as a prime destination for those seeking a peaceful and authentic camping experience. Located conveniently near the park's main entrance, this campground offers a distinct advantage for visitors eager to explore the diverse ecosystems and incredible wildlife that define the "River of Grass."

Unlike some more bustling campgrounds, Long Pine Key is renowned for its sense of privacy and tranquility. As one satisfied camper noted, "The sites are not big but they seem very private because of all the natural barriers." This design, coupled with the friendly and helpful staff, creates an inviting atmosphere for both seasoned campers and those new to the Everglades. Whether you're looking to embark on some of the park's best hikes, enjoy incredible birdwatching, or simply unwind under the vast Florida sky, Long Pine Key Campground provides the ideal base for an unforgettable adventure. It’s a cherished spot for Floridians who appreciate true wilderness camping with accessible amenities and a respectful community of fellow nature lovers.

Long Pine Key Campground is strategically located within Everglades National Park, approximately seven miles from the main park entrance near Homestead, Florida. Its address, Homestead, FL 33034, USA, places it in the southern part of Florida, making it a highly accessible destination for residents throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties, as well as those traveling from other parts of the state.

Access to Long Pine Key is straightforward from the park's main entrance, the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, which is situated off State Road 9336 (also known as Ingraham Highway). This main park road leads directly to the campground, ensuring an easy drive for both RVs and vehicles towing tents or trailers. The paved roads within the campground also contribute to ease of navigation upon arrival.

Its proximity to Homestead means that campers can stock up on groceries, fuel, and other supplies relatively easily before entering the park, as there are no comprehensive stores within the immediate campground area itself. This balance of being deep enough within the park to feel immersed in nature, yet close enough to a major town for convenience, is a significant advantage. Long Pine Key is also well-positioned for accessing some of the Everglades' most popular attractions and trailheads, which are often just a short drive away down the main park road. This strategic location offers Floridians a convenient gateway to exploring the unique natural wonders of Everglades National Park without excessive travel time or complicated routes.

Services Offered:

Long Pine Key Campground operates seasonally, typically from November to May, offering a range of services for a comfortable, authentic camping experience:

• Drive-Up Campsites: The campground features 108 individual drive-up sites suitable for both RVs and tents. These sites are paved and generally level, making setup easier.
• No Hookups (Dry Camping): Importantly, Long Pine Key Campground does not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites. This is a dry camping or boondocking experience, though potable water filling stations are available near the restrooms and dump station.
• Clean Restrooms: Flush toilets are available in well-maintained bathhouses throughout the campground. While there are no hot showers, cold water showers are provided.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is located within the campground for RV waste disposal.
• Potable Water: Potable water spigots are available near restroom facilities for filling water containers or RV tanks.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires (bring your own firewood).
• Amphitheater for Ranger Programs: The campground has an amphitheater where seasonal ranger-led programs are often held, offering educational opportunities about the Everglades' ecosystem and wildlife.
• Cell Service: Verizon cell service is reported to be good in the campground, which can be a valuable service in a national park setting. AT&T service is also available.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Central dumpsters are available for trash and recycling disposal.
• First-Come, First-Served & Reservations: While many sites are first-come, first-served, reservations are available and highly recommended, particularly for RVs and during peak season. There is also a large group campground reservable by phone.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted in the campground (on a 6-foot leash), in parking lots, and on roadways open to public vehicular traffic. However, they are not allowed on trails, in backcountry campsites, or in wilderness areas.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Privacy: A significant highlight is the privacy offered by the campsites. Dense natural vegetation and thoughtful site spacing create a secluded feel for each spot, even within a bustling campground.
• Proximity to Best Hikes: Many of the Everglades' most renowned hiking trails, such as the Anhinga Trail (famous for alligator and bird viewing), Gumbo Limbo Trail, and the Long Pine Key Trail system (over 22 miles of connecting trails for hiking and biking), are close by and easily accessible.
• Manageable Mosquitoes (Seasonally): While mosquitoes are an inherent part of the Everglades ecosystem, reviewers note that they can be "manageable" during the drier, cooler season (November-February), making for a more comfortable stay.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Visitors consistently praise the campground staff for being friendly and helpful, contributing to a positive experience.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being within Everglades National Park, campers have incredible opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including alligators, birds, and other native species, often directly from or near their campsites.
• Quiet Hours Respected: Campers generally report that quiet hours are well-respected, ensuring a peaceful night's rest. Generators are permitted only from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Beautiful Natural Barriers: The natural barriers of pine rocklands and other vegetation not only provide privacy but also immerse campers in the unique beauty of the Everglades.
• Fishing Pond: A tranquil fishing pond is located within the campground area, offering a relaxing activity.

Contact Information:

Address: Homestead, FL 33034, USA (Specifically, the campground is located seven miles from the main park entrance near Homestead.)

Phone: (305) 242-7873 (This is the general number for Everglades National Park information or the concessionaire, Flamingo Adventures, which manages the campgrounds.)

Mobile Phone: +1 305-242-7873 (Same number, reinforcing direct contact.)

For reservations, current site availability, specific rules, and updated information on park conditions or ranger programs, it is highly recommended to call the provided phone number or visit the official Everglades National Park website (NPS.gov/ever) or the Flamingo Everglades concessionaire website (flamingoeverglades.com/campgrounds/). Reservations for individual sites can often be made through Recreation.gov.

For Florida locals, Long Pine Key Campground in Everglades National Park offers an exceptional opportunity to truly immerse yourselves in one of our state's most iconic natural treasures. Its strategic location near the Homestead entrance provides convenient access, saving valuable travel time and allowing more moments to explore. This campground strikes a perfect balance: it's deep enough within the Everglades to offer an authentic wilderness experience, with incredible wildlife viewing and direct access to renowned hiking trails, yet it maintains essential amenities like clean restrooms and potable water.

The highly praised privacy of the campsites, thanks to natural vegetation, means you can enjoy your peace and quiet, a welcome reprieve from the everyday hustle. The friendly and helpful staff, coupled with the overall respect for quiet hours, fosters a welcoming and serene environment. For Floridians who appreciate dry camping and want to be at the heart of Everglades adventures, enjoying sunsets, spotting alligators, and exploring the unique pine rocklands, Long Pine Key Campground is an ideal choice. It’s an authentic, well-maintained, and genuinely private retreat that allows you to experience the unmatched beauty of our Everglades, truly making it a must-visit for any local nature enthusiast.

Long Pine Key Campground

Homestead, FL 33034, USA