Alligator Creek Campsite

Homestead, Florida

About

Backcountry camping at Everglades National Park requires staying in designated campsites, and all require a boat of some type to reach. There are 46 sites in all. Those on the rivers and creeks have a capacity of 6 to 20 people, with most holding less than a dozen. Beach campsites, which are found on the outlying islands in the Gulf of Mexico, can hold as many as 60 people. Capacity is further broken down into groups. For example, a campsite might hold 12 people, but no more than 3 groups. This means if three groups of two people have already reserved the site, a single, seventh person cannot stay despite the fact that the campsite is only half full. The current camping fee is $21 per group for an administration fee plus $2 / person for each night. Mosquitoes and gnats are a common problem in the backcountry even during the winter. If it gets cold or the wind is blowing, they tend to disappear, but if it is above 50° (F) at night and the air is still, they will be after you. When I arrived at the Hell’s Bay Chickee, the wind was so strong I couldn’t even put up a tent, so I just slept in my sleeping bag. About 10 PM I was awoken by the sound of buzzing in my ear. The wind had ceased and I was being swarmed by mosquitoes. I put up my tent in record time. I recommend bringing insect repellent and full bug regalia.

Amenities

Available Site Types

• chickee
• beach campsites

Local Attractions

• Everglades National Park
• Gulf of Mexico
• Florida Keys
• Hell’s Bay Chickee
• Lopez River Campsite