Garden Key camping is first-come at Dry Tortugas: what applies in 2026?

Exact conditions

Status

Not required; the stated access rule still applies

Applies to

overnight guests

Place or corridor

Primitive campground on Garden Key, a short walk from the public dock; 8 regular sites plus an overflow area

Effective dates

January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026

Published fee

$15

Release model

first come

Release detail: No reservations are accepted for the 6-person sites. The binding constraint is the ferry's 10-camper-per-day cap, which sells out months in advance.

Fee detail: Individual campsites $15 per night per site; group campsite $30 per night with reservation required. Children under 16 free. 50% discount for Golden Age or Golden Access passholders, shown in person with valid ID.

Exceptions and limits

• Large groups of 10-20 people DO require an advance reservation with the park.
• Everyone who arrives is guaranteed a place to camp, even if that means the shared overflow area.