In order to offer additional protection to wildlife habitat, the following areas have been closed to public entry:

Keys and beaches of Florida Bay

With the exception of Little Rabbit Key, North Nest Key, Carl Ross Key (during daylight hours only), and Bradley Key (during daylight hours only), all keys and beaches in Florida Bay are closed to protect nesting and rookery areas. The waters immediately adjacent to Sandy Key are closed year round; and the waters immediately adjacent to Porjoe Key and Tern Keys, as posted. The moats and internal creeks, as posted, associated with the Buchanan Keys. It should also be noted that pets are prohibited on all keys.

Northeast Florida Bay

The following areas are closed for the protection of American crocodiles and their nesting habitat: Little Madeira Bay, Taylor River, East Creek, Mud Creek, Mud Bay, Davis Creek, Joe Bay and its easternmost portion, commonly called Snag Bay, and all creeks and back bays inland from the northern shoreline of Long Sound to U.S. Highway 1.

Flamingo Area

Entry is prohibited to Rogers Bay Rookery, the Cuthbert Lakes and their attendant rookery. 

Ten Thousand Islands Area

Landing is prohibited on the small group of islands at the southeast entrance to Gaskin Bay, known as Indian Key Rookery.  Landing is allowed only on the northern most sand spit of Pavilion Key. The rest of the island is closed.

Other areas may be posted closed by order of the Park Superintendent. Closed areas represent less than 1% of the total park area.