Greetings from Dry Tortugas National Park

The moment we arrived at the Dry Tortugas I fell in love with the views from atop Fort Jefferson. What I love about The Dry Tortugas is that you can explore Florida’s natural wonders and get lost exploring a historic site all at the same time. A feeling of peace comes over you knowing that you are so far from the city. I was born and raised in South Florida and I regret not experiencing this beautiful island sooner, but I will definitely be returning over and over again.

Sincerely,
Claudia

Dry Tortugas National Park

This park protects seven small islands 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, and the ocean waters that surround them. These islands change constantly from the effects of tides, weather, air, and other environmental and human factors. On Garden Key, visitors can tour the largest all-masonry fort in the United States, built between 1846 and 1875 to defend the Gulf of Mexico, but never completed. The park is also renowned for its vibrant coral, lush seagrass, and migratory birds.

State(s): Florida

Established: 1935

“As a lover of nature and of history I support them because these natural places were here first and because they tell the story of America. I have not visited every park but I am in love with all of them. I can't imagine not having views like the vastness of Grand Canyon or the beauty of the pine forests in Mt. Rainier. I plan to pass my love of National Parks to my children and I hope the parks will be there long enough for their enjoyment. The beauty of National Parks is necessary to help people escape from their reality, even if it's only for a weekend.”

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