The notable Florida Everglades is an absolutely unparalleled ecosystem and a place where wildlife flows in abundance. Nature is flourishing here, and people are bound to see many different species of fauna while visiting this magnificent place. Not far after entering the park, there is an alluring spot near the entrance where visitors can see many different types of intriguing birds and curious alligators. If seeing 'gators is one's main goal while visiting this national park, the Anhinga Trail is a top spot where visitors can see alligators in The Everglades.
If people are looking for more than alligators, this species-rich region offers other options for venturesome hiking trails, picturesque camping grounds, and eco-tours through the many mangroves and waterways, where they can view an array of wildlife found in The Everglades in its natural habitat. Since this is the Everglades, pesky bugs are more than likely going to bother visitors a little (or a lot) while walking through these audacious trails, especially in the summer.
Visitors should make sure to bring bug spray to ward off those mosquitos or else they just might drive them crazy! Bug fan or not, adventure abounds in The Everglades for those who can't get enough of nature, whether visitors are after scenery, wildlife, or particular activities and excursions. With that in mind, here's a guide to exploring The Everglades with a view to hiking, camping, and eco-friendly tours.
What Are The Best Trails In The Everglades?
Hiking the best trails The Everglades have to offer is an experience that gets nature lovers to return time and time again - because there are many beautiful hikes in Everglades National Park. Some of the top hikes in The Everglades that are suited to all skill levels include the following:
- Anhinga Trail
- Pine Island Trails
- Snake Bite Trail
- Gumbo Limbo Trail
- Otter Cave Hammock Trail
- Rowdy Bend Trail
- Long Pine Key Trail
- West Lake Trail
- Bobcat Boardwalk
- Shark Valley Tram Road
Difficult Hikes In The Everglades
Some of the more advanced hikes in The Everglades that experienced hikers may enjoy include:
- Coastal Prairie Trail
- Christian Point Trail
Can You Camp In The Everglades?
The Everglades is one of the top National Parks in the United States and therefore offers exceptional campgrounds. Whether campers are looking to pitch a tent, stay in an RV, or in a cabin, there are plenty of Everglades campgrounds to choose from within the 1.5 million acre range of the park. People can choose campgrounds that are more crowded or more private, depending on what they are looking for.
A backcountry campsite is a type of campsite that is completely remote, and there is no electricity, restrooms, or showers. It is a complete and raw outdoor experience that involves just the person and nature, and this is a popular option for those camping in The Everglades. Of course, camping like this exposes people to more animals and wildlife to encounter, so experience and knowledge of camping is a plus when. If that is not one's cup of tea, don't worry; there are plenty of other options with more amenities.
The Best Campsites In The Everglades
Some of the best campgrounds in The Everglades are as follows:
- Clubhouse Beach (Backcountry Campsite)
- Big Cypress National Preserve
- Trail Lakes Campground
- Chokoloskee Island Park
- Flamingo Campground
- Highland Beach (Backcountry Campsite)
- Long Pine Key Campground
- Everglades National Park
- Bear Island Campground
- Crooked Creek Chickie
- Little Rabbit Key (Backcountry Campsite)
- Lane Bay Chickee
- Mitchel Landing Campground
- Panther Camp
Can You Tour The Everglades?
Tours in The Everglades are a top pick for tourists, especially among outdoorsy types and nature lovers. In particular, ecotourism in The Everglades has become an incredibly popular way to explore the park's trails, swamps, and waterways. Visitors can choose tours that give the opportunity to view large alligators, magnificent manatees, lurking crocodiles, playful dolphins, distinctive types of fish, and hundreds of bird species in their natural habitats. How rare is that? That is part of what makes the mangroves in The Everglades so astonishing compared to other ecosystems in the world.
Mangroves are crucial in helping balance Florida's coastline ecosystem.The Florida Mangrove habitat is home to thousands of vital marine species that help keep everything else in line. Kayaking through the Florida mangroves is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and one that adventurers don't want to miss. Not only are these ecosystems Instagrammable spots, but it is naturally striking and beautiful to see them in person. Seeing this stunning forest reminds people of how powerful nature is and to have respect for the wildlife, trees, and creatures that benefit from its essence.
Whether being with a group is preferred, or one would rather go on a private tour, there are many Everglades tours to choose from that are ideal for nature lovers with a keen focus on ecotourism and enjoying the park in a sustainable, low-impact way, including options by boat, kayak, and canoe. No matter what part of the mammoth-sized Everglades people visit, there is an adventure for everyone to enjoy. The following are some of the best tours in the Everglades to try, especially if one is an eco-conscious traveler.
Everglades Eco-Tours
- Everglades Adventures Kayaks & Eco Tours
- Rookery Bay Reserve Boat Tours
- Viator Manatee Adventure Airboat Tour in The Everglades from Orlando with Lunch, Wildlife Viewing, & Park Transport
- Mangrove Tunnels and Mudflats Kayak Tour
- Manatee Sight Seeing & Wildlife Boat Tour
- Dolphin & Manatee Boat Tour in 10,000 Islands
- Essence of the Estuary Eco Cruise
- Pole Boat Eco Tours
Discover some of the best Everglades airboat tours before planning a trip!
Whether spending one day in the Florida Everglades or a week, there is endless fun to be had, especially when it comes to fully immersing oneself in nature and enjoying it to its fullest. But no matter what type of adventure people are seeking - be it an adventure by hiking, by eco-tour, or by camping - it's important to be aware of one's surroundings at all times.
Be on the lookout for bugs, snakes, spiders, and any type of critter that visitors may encounter on their time exploring the park. The wildlife in The Everglades, although beautiful, is also why it's crucial to follow the rules; keep a watchful eye out for creatures, look out for one another, and always be prepared with drinkable water, sunscreen, snacks, and any other essentials that people may need. In doing so, visitors are sure to have an enjoyable, sustainable vacation in The Everglades of Florida.