News Release

Everglades National Park Reopens Shark Valley District After Wildfire Closure

The Shark Valley District of Everglades National Park has reopened following a recent wildfire-related closure.

NPS

News Release Date: August 24, 2026
Contact: Media Contact, 786-897-1053
Contact: Park Information, 305-242-7700

HOMESTEAD, Fla. — Everglades National Park lifted the emergency closure for the Shark Valley District at 1 p.m. on Aug. 24. All public and administrative use of the area may resume after the closure from wildfires in the area. 

The Chipmunk Fire has burned approximately 17,000 acres and is 60% contained. Fire activity is currently occurring in sawgrass prairie approximately six miles south-southwest of the Shark Valley Observation Tower.

The Vulture Fire, at 347 acres, and the Movie Dome Fire, at 6,207 acres, are both 100% contained.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service firefighters continue to suppress and monitor the Chipmunk Fire.

For updated fire information and park status, visit Everglades National Park's Current Conditions page: nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/conditions.

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