Gibraltar of the Gulf: Camping at Dry Tortugas National Park

Published: June 25, 2021, 9:57 p.m.

Almost 70 miles  west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands.  Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson and for its picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.

Dry Tortugas National Park is a bucket list adventure for many of the visitors who make it there.  We camped for two nights and would highly recommend it but take any opportunity you have to visit what you can. Learn more about our experience as well as that of other campers.

Just steps away from the disembarkation point of the ferry is Fort Jefferson, part of the third system of U.S. coastal defense.  Fort Jefferson is the largest brick masonry structure in the United States and is composed of 16 million bricks.  Hollywood, the energetic and expert tour guide from Yankee Freedom, shares a great deal of knowledge about the history and importance of the fort and the area.

Information/Booking re: Camping in Dry Tortugas National Park:

https://www.drytortugas.com/key-west-camping/

Outdoor Organization Feature:

Venture Out Project: https://linktr.ee/theventureoutproject

This month we are sharing the work of the Venture Out Project as part of our community effort to showcase organizations who are working towards social justice and more inclusive public lands.  Established in 2014 by Perry Cohen, the Venture Out Project was one of the first guiding companies run by and for queer and transgender people.  Their mission is to provide a safe and fun space for queer, trans, and LGBTQ+ people to experience the outdoors as well as providing education and support that helps schools and organizations affirm their LGBTQ+ members. This is further underscored by their commitment to environmental stewardship, social justice, diversity, and inclusion.