Ranger-Guided Camping Programs

Student Camping in the Everglades

Everglades National Park maintains two education centers that offer 3-day / 2-night group camping programs. Programs and site descriptions can be found below.

2025 - 2026 Program Registration
(Will Open on August 13, 2025 at 8:00 AM EST)

Student Camping - General Information

General Camping Program Details

• Program Availability: Programs are offered December through April to 5th and 6th grade students from the surrounding community.
• Cost: Programs are free with an academic fee waiver. Schools provide transportation and meals.
• Registration: Registration for the school year takes place in mid-August each year at 8:00am. Programs fill quickly, so we suggest teachers request a date early! 
• Workshops: First-time teachers will need to attend an in-park Teacher Workshop.
• Group Size: 16-26 students
• Teachers & Chaperones: 1 adult per 5 students (maximum 8)

Camping Facilities

Camping Facilities

There are 2 camping facilities to choose from.

• Loop Road Education Site (approximately 30 miles west of Krome Avenue and US41).
• Hidden Lake Education Site (approximately 40 miles southwest of Miami, Florida in Homestead, Florida). 

Each camping center includes:

• A shelter with picnic tables
• Food storage boxes
• Five platforms with pre-set up canvas tents
• Barbecue grill
• Restrooms (No shower facilities)
• Campfire circle with firewood

Camp Activities

Ranger-led Camp Activities

All programs are curriculum-based and are flexible, depending on topics teachers would like to include in their camping experience. Typical camp activities include:

• Habitat hikes

• Wet walks / Canoe programs

• Night walks

• Campfire programs

• Sunrise reflection

• Various activities about park issues

Questions?

For questions, please call 305-242-7862 or e-mail us.

 

Two Camp Sites - One Unforgettable Student Experience

 

Students enjoying a meal at Hidden Lake Camp Site

Hidden Lake Environmental Education Center

Located 15 miles from Homestead and 4 miles from the park's main visitor center. The campsite is within a hardwood hammock, alongside a three-acre freshwater lake. Classes have the option to canoe on Hidden Lake and walk to the popular Anhinga Trail.

 

Sunrise reflection at Loop Road

Loop Road Environmental Education Center

Located 12 miles west of Shark Valley on Loop Road, inside Big Cypress National Preserve. The five-acre property is an open grassy area with a traditional Miccosukee Indian chickee (shelter) and a freshwater pond. Classes have the option to participate in a narrated tram tour at Shark Valley.