https://www.nps.gov/drto News releases from Dry Tortugas National Park. en-us https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/archeologists-identify-original-burial-site-of-private-george-tupper.htm Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:15:00 EST National Park Service archeologists have identified the original burial site of Private George Tupper, a 22-year-old U.S. Army soldier and the only known service member buried within the walls of Fort Jefferson on Garden Key. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/archeologists-identify-original-burial-site-of-private-george-tupper.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/post-hurricane-helene-status.htm Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:00:00 EST Following the passing of Hurricane Helene, visitors to the South Florida National Parks and Preserve should continue to exercise caution with the potential for unidentified hazards on land and in park waters. Marine waters continue to be open in all locations, but parks are still assessing missing or damaged aids to navigation. Closures or special conditions are available on each park’s website under Alerts. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/post-hurricane-helene-status.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/koch-selected-as-drto-chief-and-regional-award-recipient.htm Mon, 15 Jul 2024 02:07:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park announced the selection of Brett Koch as chief ranger. His new role will include leading the law enforcement park rangers at one of the nation’s most remote national parks. Koch’s dedication to the National Park Service's (NPS) mission was recently recognized when he was selected as the Southeast Region’s National Ranger Excellence Award (previously the Harry Yount Award) recipient for 2023. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/koch-selected-as-drto-chief-and-regional-award-recipient.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/campground-reopens.htm Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:34:00 EST On April 25, Dry Tortugas National Park reopened the campground as scheduled after dredging the Fort Jefferson moat and redistributing sand that had built up from several hurricanes. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/campground-reopens.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/hms-tyger-identification.htm Thu, 14 Mar 2024 11:00:00 EST National Park Service archeologists identified the archeological remains of HMS Tyger, an 18th century British warship that sunk in 1742 after it ran aground on the reefs of the Dry Tortugas while on patrol in the War of Jenkins Ear between Britain and Spain. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/hms-tyger-identification.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tempcampgroundclosure.htm Thu, 15 Feb 2024 06:32:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park announced that the dredging and moat wall repair project will begin on March 11 with a 45-day closure of the Garden Key Campground for the safety of park visitors. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tempcampgroundclosure.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/renewed-ferry-contract.htm Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:30:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park announced the selection of Yankee Freedom III, Inc. to provide interpretive ferry service to the park. The new contract term, which begins Nov. 1, is for ten years and will provide daily ferry service to the park with departures from Key West. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/renewed-ferry-contract.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-reopens-after-hurricane-idalia.htm Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park will reopen on August 31 after the passage of Hurricane Idalia. Weather permitting, ferry and seaplane tours will also resume. Fort Jefferson, South Beach, and the campground on Garden Key are open. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-reopens-after-hurricane-idalia.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/idalia.htm Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:00:00 EST On Aug. 28 at 5 p.m., Dry Tortugas National Park will temporarily close for the safety of visitors and staff in preparation for Tropical Storm Idalia. Concession-operated ferry and sea plane services are also temporarily suspended. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/idalia.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/park-manager-crutchfield.htm Tue, 01 Aug 2023 09:00:00 EST The National Park Service (NPS) announced today the selection of James Crutchfield as park manager of Dry Tortugas National Park. Crutchfield is joining the Dry Tortugas team from the NPS Historic Preservation Training Center, where he served as the monument section manager since February 2022. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/park-manager-crutchfield.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/underwater-hospital-and-cemetery.htm Mon, 01 May 2023 09:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park announced the finding of archeological remains of a 19th century quarantine hospital and cemetery on a submerged island near Garden Key. The small quarantine hospital was used to treat yellow fever patients at the fort between 1890 and 1900. The cemetery has been identified as the Fort Jefferson Post Cemetery. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/underwater-hospital-and-cemetery.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/closures-for-dinghy-beach.htm Mon, 24 Apr 2023 07:05:00 EST Beginning May 1, the small dinghy beach between the main dock and the seaplane beach will be open from sunrise until 10 a.m. and again from 3 p.m. to sunset. The beach will be closed to all landings from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/closures-for-dinghy-beach.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/moat-wall-snorkeling-closure.htm Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:50:00 EST One-half of the moat wall will be closed to snorkeling during coral relocation work from April to June. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/moat-wall-snorkeling-closure.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/counterscarp-ea.htm Wed, 08 Mar 2023 06:30:00 EST The release of the Environmental Assessment for repairs to the Fort Jefferson counterscarp and dredging of the moat at Dry Tortugas National Park is available for review and public comment from Mar. 8 to April 10, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/counterscarp-ea.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto-reopen-jan-2023.htm Fri, 06 Jan 2023 08:00:00 EST On January 8 at 8 a.m., Dry Tortugas National Park will reopen to public access, including to overnight camping. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto-reopen-jan-2023.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto-closure-jan-2-2023.htm Sun, 01 Jan 2023 10:00:00 EST KEY WEST, Fla. – On January 2 at 8 am, Dry Tortugas National Park will temporarily close to public access while law enforcement and medical personnel evaluate, provide care for and coordinate transport to Key West for approximately 300 migrants who arrived in the park over the past couple of days. The closure, which is expected to last several days, is necessary for the safety of visitors and staff because of the resources and space needed to attend to the migrants. Concession-operated ferry and sea plane services are temporarily suspended. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto-closure-jan-2-2023.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/national-park-service-benefits-from-half-million-dollar-donation-by-the-florida-national-parks-association.htm Thu, 27 Oct 2022 06:00:00 EST In the last year, the four National Park Service sites in South Florida received a combined $527,225 in aid from their nonprofit education partner, the Florida National Parks Association. This substantial donation was made to enhance the visitor experience at Biscayne, Dry Tortugas and Everglades national parks, and Big Cypress National Preserve. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/national-park-service-benefits-from-half-million-dollar-donation-by-the-florida-national-parks-association.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/ferryopen.htm Sun, 09 Oct 2022 10:16:00 EST Concession-operated ferry service to Dry Tortugas National Park will resume on Monday, October 10 after engineers inspected the storm-damaged dock on Garden Key and determined it is safe to partially reopen. Visitors should check concessions websites or call for more information on availability. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/ferryopen.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtodockupdate.htm Thu, 06 Oct 2022 09:43:00 EST Engineers will begin their assessment of the damaged docks on Loggerhead and Garden Keys on Saturday, October 8. The docks will remain inaccessible to the ferry and private vessels through at least Sunday, October 9. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtodockupdate.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/sofl-continues-rolling-reopening-oct-2.htm Sun, 02 Oct 2022 07:24:00 EST South Florida national parks will open additional locations following Hurricane Ian. Visitors should exercise caution because of the potential for unidentified hazards on land and in park waters. Marine waters continue to be open in all locations. Current status is available on each park’s website under Alerts. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/sofl-continues-rolling-reopening-oct-2.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/hurricane-ian-post-storm-status.htm Thu, 29 Sep 2022 15:30:00 EST Biscayne reopens and Everglades partially reopens. Dry Tortugas and Big Cypress remain closed. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/hurricane-ian-post-storm-status.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-closes-in-preparation-for-hurricane-ian.htm Mon, 26 Sep 2022 09:55:00 EST On  September 26 at noon,  Dry Tortugas National Park temporarily closed in preparation for Hurricane Ian for the safety of visitors and staff. Concession-operated ferry and sea plane services are also temporarily suspended. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-closes-in-preparation-for-hurricane-ian.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/public-comment-for-hurricane-repairs.htm Fri, 14 Jan 2022 07:30:00 EST Public comment period is open Jan. 14 through Feb. 14 for a plan for repairs to the Fort Jefferson counterscarp and dredging the moat and finger piers. Damage resulted from Hurricane Irma in 2017. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/public-comment-for-hurricane-repairs.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/diving-therapy-for-wounded-veterans-at-dry-tortugas.htm Wed, 10 Nov 2021 08:30:00 EST Seven veterans with service-connected disabilities experienced the benefits of diving while contributing to coral restoration work and buoy maintenance at Dry Tortugas National Park. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/diving-therapy-for-wounded-veterans-at-dry-tortugas.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-acts-to-preserve-genetic-diversity-of-rare-pillar-coral.htm Thu, 26 Aug 2021 09:30:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park today announced it completed a successful coral rescue mission this month to secure fragments of previously unknown pillar coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) colonies within the park for preservation. These new colonies may have a unique genetic makeup, or genotype, and may be more resilient to stressors like Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, found recently at the national park. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-acts-to-preserve-genetic-diversity-of-rare-pillar-coral.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/stony-coral-tissue-loss-disease-found-at-dry-tortugas-national-park.htm Wed, 02 Jun 2021 07:30:00 EST Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease—an infectious, water-borne disease that impacts hard coral species and damages entire reefs—has been found on corals in Dry Tortugas National Park. The park’s Coral Response Team observed it on May 29 while conducting a routine disease survey. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/stony-coral-tissue-loss-disease-found-at-dry-tortugas-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-announce-entrance-fee-free-days-for-2021.htm Tue, 29 Dec 2020 05:44:00 EST Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks will waive their entrance fee on six days in 2021. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-announce-entrance-fee-free-days-for-2021.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-biscayne-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-modify-operations-for-tropical-storm-eta.htm Sun, 08 Nov 2020 12:00:00 EST Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas National Parks have temporarily closed park entrances and visitor facilities in preparation for Tropical Storm Eta for the safety of visitors and staff. Marine waters in all parks will remain open for boating, but emergency services will be extremely limited. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-biscayne-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-modify-operations-for-tropical-storm-eta.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-begins-a-4-5-million-restoration-of-the-tortugas-harbor-lighthouse.htm Wed, 21 Oct 2020 05:30:00 EST The 144-year old Tortugas Harbor Lighthouse on historic Fort Jefferson is about to get a facelift. On October 19, Dry Tortugas National Park kicked off the $4.5 million project to restore and preserve the deteriorating lighthouse for the next 100-plus years. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-begins-a-4-5-million-restoration-of-the-tortugas-harbor-lighthouse.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-reopens-following-tropical-storm-laura.htm Wed, 26 Aug 2020 07:34:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla. – On Wednesday, Aug. 26, Dry Tortugas National Park reopened to visitors. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-reopens-following-tropical-storm-laura.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-monday-dry-tortugas-national-park-remains-closed-for-tropical-storm-laura.htm Sun, 23 Aug 2020 16:09:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla. – On Monday, Aug. 24, Everglades National Park will return to regular park operations. Dry Tortugas remains closed. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-monday-dry-tortugas-national-park-remains-closed-for-tropical-storm-laura.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-modify-operations-for-tropical-storm-laura.htm Sat, 22 Aug 2020 14:00:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla. - On Sunday, August 23 at 5:00 pm, Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks will temporarily close park entrances and visitor facilities in preparation for Tropical Storm Laura for the safety of visitors and staff. Park concession-operated boat, ferry, and sea plane tours as well as services and rentals will also suspend operations by 5:00 pm Sunday. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-modify-operations-for-tropical-storm-laura.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-after-hurricane-isaias-dry-tortugas-remains-open.htm Sat, 01 Aug 2020 14:00:00 EST Everglades National Park will reopen on Aug. 2 after the passage of Hurricane Isaias. Wilderness permits will resume. Check with individual concession companies for activities and services. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-after-hurricane-isaias-dry-tortugas-remains-open.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-closes-for-hurricane-isaias-dry-tortugas-national-park-remains-open.htm Fri, 31 Jul 2020 12:04:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla. - On Friday, July 31, Everglades National Park will temporarily close park entrances and visitor facilities at 7 p.m. in preparation for Hurricane Isaias for the safety of visitors and staff. Park concession-operated boat tours, services and rentals will also suspend operations on Friday afternoon. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-closes-for-hurricane-isaias-dry-tortugas-national-park-remains-open.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/south-florida-national-parks-and-preserve-create-over-352-million-in-economic-benefit.htm Tue, 16 Jun 2020 09:00:00 EST A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 2.9 million visitors to the four NPS units in South Florida collectively spent $242.5 million in 2019. That spending resulted in 3,251 jobs and had a cumulative benefit to the South Florida economy of $352.2 million. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/south-florida-national-parks-and-preserve-create-over-352-million-in-economic-benefit.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/ferry-boat-and-sea-plane-tours-resume-and-campground-reopens.htm Tue, 02 Jun 2020 08:30:00 EST Beginning June 3, the sea plane and ferry boat tours and services resume. The campground and associated restroom on Garden Key reopens. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/ferry-boat-and-sea-plane-tours-resume-and-campground-reopens.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/south-florida-national-parks-resume-commercial-operations.htm Thu, 28 May 2020 14:00:00 EST Starting June 1, commercial operations in Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas National Parks will begin to resume guided tours and services at reduced capacities in accordance with public health guidelines. Shark Valley, Gulf Coast and wilderness campsites will reopen at Everglades National Park. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/south-florida-national-parks-resume-commercial-operations.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-is-beginning-to-increase-recreational-access.htm Sun, 24 May 2020 13:30:00 EST Beginning Monday, May 25, we are expanding public access by reopening outdoor areas on Garden Key (including Fort Jefferson) and Loggerhead Key, from sunrise to sunset. No restrooms are available. Entrance fee collection will also resume. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-is-beginning-to-increase-recreational-access.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-closes-islands-until-further-notice.htm Thu, 02 Apr 2020 15:45:00 EST As of April 3, Dry Tortugas National Park will close all islands in the park to public access to comply with Governor Ron DeSantis' Safer at Home Executive Order. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-closes-islands-until-further-notice.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-closes-campground-on-garden-key.htm Mon, 23 Mar 2020 12:47:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park has closed the campground and the campground restroom on Garden Key until further notice. Where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, park waters, Loggerhead Key, Garden Key with Fort Jefferson and the harbors will remain open at this time. No restrooms or visitor services are available. The visitor center and bookstore remain closed. Visitors to the park should be self-sufficient. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-closes-campground-on-garden-key.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/national-parks-and-preserve-remain-open-visitor-facilities-and-programs-closing.htm Mon, 16 Mar 2020 17:00:00 EST South Florida National Parks and Preserve remain open. Visitor contact facilities closed as of Mar. 17. Ranger-led programs and concession activities suspended. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/national-parks-and-preserve-remain-open-visitor-facilities-and-programs-closing.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-after-hurricane-dorian-dry-tortugas-remains-open.htm Tue, 03 Sep 2019 17:19:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla - On Wednesday, Sept. 4, Everglades National Park will reopen park entrances and visitor facilities at 7 a.m. now that the threat of Hurricane Dorian has passed. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-after-hurricane-dorian-dry-tortugas-remains-open.htm https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-closes-for-hurricane-dorian-dry-tortugas-remains-open-for-now.htm Fri, 30 Aug 2019 10:52:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla - On Friday, Aug. 30, Everglades National Park will close park entrances and visitor facilities at 4 p.m. in preparation for the landfall of Hurricane Dorian. https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/news/everglades-national-park-closes-for-hurricane-dorian-dry-tortugas-remains-open-for-now.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-national-park-closes-for-hurricane-dorian-dry-tortugas-remains-open-for-now.htm Fri, 30 Aug 2019 10:42:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla - On Friday, Aug. 30, Everglades National Park will close park entrances and visitor facilities at 4 p.m. in preparation for the landfall of Hurricane Dorian. Park concession-operated boat tours, services and rentals at Flamingo and Everglades City as well as Shark Valley Tram Tours will also cease operations on Friday afternoon. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-national-park-closes-for-hurricane-dorian-dry-tortugas-remains-open-for-now.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-rescues-corals-ahead-of-coral-disease-outbreak.htm Fri, 05 Jul 2019 06:59:00 EST Key West, Fla. – Dry Tortugas National Park and partner agency scientists collected 410 corals within park waters from July 1–5. The coral rescue in the park is part of the Coral Rescue Project, a multi-agency effort that aims to collect healthy corals ahead of the Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease front. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-rescues-corals-ahead-of-coral-disease-outbreak.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-artists-to-discuss-their-residency-and-evacuation-from-tiny-off-grid-island.htm Fri, 16 Mar 2018 09:52:00 EST KEY WEST, Fla. - Imagine being brave enough to spend a whole month on a tiny remote island, accessible only by boat or plane, no hotel, no resort, electricity only from solar power and having no phone, no cell service, no internet. Now imagine you carry in whatever you will need, and spend your days focused on creating art. That was the plan for Matthew and Julie Chase-Daniel last September, after being chosen by the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) as artists-in-residence at Dry Tortugas National Park. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-artists-to-discuss-their-residency-and-evacuation-from-tiny-off-grid-island.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/important-notice-to-visitors-to-everglades-biscayne-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-and-big-cypress-national-preserve.htm Sat, 20 Jan 2018 07:11:00 EST HOMESTEAD, KEY WEST AND OCHOPEE, Fla - Due to the lapse in federal appropriations, the National Park Service (NPS) is unable to fully staff the properties under its management. It is not feasible to close or otherwise prohibit all access to NPS properties. Under these circumstances, the planned and current accessibility of Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Big Cypress National Preserve under this government shutdown, is reflected below, and subject to change without prior notice. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/important-notice-to-visitors-to-everglades-biscayne-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-and-big-cypress-national-preserve.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/national-park-fee-free-days-2017.htm Thu, 16 Feb 2017 07:06:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Fla. – The next fee-free day of 2017 is just around the corner! In honor of Presidents Day, all national parks will waive their admission fees on February 20. Take advantage of this opportunity to #FindYourPark at any of these sites across the nation! https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/national-park-fee-free-days-2017.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/2016-loggerhead-key-artists-in-residence-announced.htm Mon, 19 Sep 2016 07:04:00 EST KEY WEST, FLORIDA: Dry Tortugas National Park and the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) are pleased to announce this year’s resident artists in their ongoing partnership to establish a joint Artist in Residence (AIR) Program. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/2016-loggerhead-key-artists-in-residence-announced.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-camping-and-dry-tortugas-national-park-reopen-after-invest-99l.htm Mon, 29 Aug 2016 15:02:00 EST Homestead, FL: Dry Tortugas National Park will reopen on Tuesday, August 30 at 8 a.m. The ferry and seaplane concessions will resume day trips to the park, weather permitting. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-camping-and-dry-tortugas-national-park-reopen-after-invest-99l.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-closing-everglades-stays-open-for-invest-99l.htm Sat, 27 Aug 2016 13:21:00 EST Homestead, FL: Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks began implementing their hurricane plan on Thursday, August 25, in response to the forecasts for tropical weather system Invest 99L. Dry Tortugas National Park will close to recreational activities at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27 and remain closed until the storm passes and staff are able to assess storm damage and safely open the park. Once the park re-opens, the ferry and seaplane concessions will resume day trips to the park, weather permitting. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-closing-everglades-stays-open-for-invest-99l.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tourism-to-national-park-service-areas-in-south-florida-creates-227-million-dollars-in-economic-benefit-and-over-3000-jobs.htm Thu, 21 Apr 2016 06:55:00 EST A new National Park Service report shows that nearly 3 million visitors to the National Park Service areas in south Florida spent $227 million last year in surrounding communities. That spending supported over 3,248 jobs in south Florida. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tourism-to-national-park-service-areas-in-south-florida-creates-227-million-dollars-in-economic-benefit-and-over-3000-jobs.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/president-carter-made-honorary-national-park-ranger.htm Sun, 17 Apr 2016 13:50:00 EST Former President Jimmy Carter was bestowed the award and title of honorary national park ranger at an intimate ceremony Sunday by National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. This is the highest civilian honor awarded by the agency, and is reserved for individuals whose contribution to the National Park System is exceptional. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/president-carter-made-honorary-national-park-ranger.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-celebrates-centennial-with-free-park-entrance-april-16-through-24.htm Fri, 15 Apr 2016 14:01:00 EST Americans are encouraged to get out and #FindYourPark during National Park Week, which runs April 16 through April 24. All National Park Service entrance fees will be waived for the week. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-celebrates-centennial-with-free-park-entrance-april-16-through-24.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/february-29-deadline-to-vote-in-centennial-photography-contest.htm Thu, 04 Feb 2016 10:06:00 EST February 4, 2016 – UPDATE – The Centennial Celebration photography contest is underway and the public is invited to visit drytortugas.com to cast their vote for the grand prize winner. The voting began December 1, 2015 and continues through February 29, 2016. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/february-29-deadline-to-vote-in-centennial-photography-contest.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-to-reopen-august-31.htm Sun, 30 Aug 2015 13:40:00 EST HOMESTEAD, KEY WEST: Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks are preparing to open to visitation following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika. On Monday, August 31, Everglades National Park’s entrance gates and visitor centers will be open to the public at 10 a.m., and concessions will be operational at 10:00 a.m. or shortly after. Concessions at Dry Tortugas National Park will be operational at the start of business on Tuesday, September 1. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-to-reopen-august-31.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-announces-closures-due-to-tropical-storm-erika.htm Fri, 28 Aug 2015 07:12:00 EST In the interest of public safety, due to the approach of Tropical Storm Erika, Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks will be closing to visitors at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-announces-closures-due-to-tropical-storm-erika.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/fee-free-days-in-2015.htm Wed, 07 Jan 2015 10:09:00 EST There are nine more reasons to enjoy your national park service units in 2015 - all will offer free admission on nine days in 2015. In addition, Everglades National Park will offer free admission for its annual Vintage Day celebration (March 7, 2015, main entrance only) and its Junior Ranger Day (March 21, 2015). https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/fee-free-days-in-2015.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/park-officers-additional-public-meetings-on-proposed-fee-increases.htm Fri, 19 Dec 2014 09:39:00 EST We invite the public to attend either of two additional public meetings on proposed park fee increases, being held on January 12 in Naples and January 15 in Homestead. Comments can also be submitted via mail or email. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/park-officers-additional-public-meetings-on-proposed-fee-increases.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/call-for-seaplane-concessions-proposals.htm Wed, 17 Dec 2014 10:22:00 EST Dry Tortugas Interpretive Passenger Seaplane Concessions Prospectus - All proposals are due on Friday, March 27, 2015. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/call-for-seaplane-concessions-proposals.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/proposedfeeincreasespr.htm Fri, 05 Dec 2014 04:01:00 EST n September 2014, the National Park Service authorized all park units to engage the public and stakeholders on proposed fee increases as part of the 2014 National Park Service fee review. Over the past few months park managers analyzed entrance fees across similar units of the National Park System, especially parks of similar size and visitation, as well as conducted comparisons with state and local park facilities with similar services https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/proposedfeeincreasespr.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drytortugas-hashtag-photo-contest.htm Thu, 02 Oct 2014 06:20:00 EST KEY WEST, Florida: Park Manager Glenn Simpson invites everyone who loves the Dry Tortugas National Park to participate in the Dry Tortugas Hashtag Photo Contest. This contest was developed in partnership with the Dry Tortugas Yankee Freedom III, the park’s official ferry. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drytortugas-hashtag-photo-contest.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/living-history-programs-at-dry-tortugas-national-park-august-22-through-25.htm Mon, 11 Aug 2014 14:14:00 EST Come celebrate the birthday of the National Park System with living history demonstrations at Dry Tortugas National Park, being held daily August 23 through 25. Park Visitors will step back into 1861 as they explore the park and experience re-enactors scattered about the island engaged in activities typical of daily life at Fort Jefferson for residents of the island during the Civil War era. As an added bonus, Monday is a National Park fee free day; entrance will be free August 25 in celebration of the 98th birthday of the National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/living-history-programs-at-dry-tortugas-national-park-august-22-through-25.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tourism-to-south-florida-national-parks-creates-206-million-in-economic-benefit-and-over-2700-jobs.htm Tue, 22 Jul 2014 09:39:00 EST KEY WEST, Florida – A new National Park Service report shows that over two and a half million visitors to the national parks in South Florida, spent $206 million last year in surrounding communities. That spending supported over 2,700 jobs in South Florida. In Dry Tortugas National Park 58,400 visitors spent over $3.4 million and supported 35 jobs in surrounding communities. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tourism-to-south-florida-national-parks-creates-206-million-in-economic-benefit-and-over-2700-jobs.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/new-acting-supt-krumenaker.htm Thu, 05 Jun 2014 08:28:00 EST Bob Krumenaker New Acting Superintendent Effective August 2014 https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/new-acting-supt-krumenaker.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/sbengeactingsuperintendentpr2014.htm Fri, 28 Mar 2014 11:33:00 EST Shawn Benge has been appointed the acting Superintendent for both Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks effective March 31 2014. Shawn will be on a 90 day assignment to fill the position held by retiring Superintendent Dan Kimball for the past ten years. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/sbengeactingsuperintendentpr2014.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/jungerselectedfordeputysuperintendent2014.htm Fri, 07 Mar 2014 10:39:00 EST Everglades National Park Superintendent Dan Kimball announces the selection of Justin Unger as Deputy Superintendent for both Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks effective March 3 2014. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/jungerselectedfordeputysuperintendent2014.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tourism-to-dry-tortugas-national-park-creates-3-million-in-economic-benefit-report-shows-visitor-spending-supports-33-jobs-in-local-economy.htm Mon, 03 Mar 2014 11:53:00 EST HOMESTEAD, Florida – A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 60, 550 visitors to Dry Tortugas National Park in 2012 spent approximately $3.2 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 33 jobs in the local area. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/tourism-to-dry-tortugas-national-park-creates-3-million-in-economic-benefit-report-shows-visitor-spending-supports-33-jobs-in-local-economy.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/accepting-applications-from-businesses-interested-in-providing-visitor-services-in-dry-tortugas-national-park.htm Wed, 30 Oct 2013 13:57:00 EST The National Park Service is now accepting applications for Commercial Use Authorizations (CUA) from individuals or businesses wishing to offer visitor services in Dry Tortugas National Park for the two year period starting February 1, 2014 and ending January 31, 2015. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/accepting-applications-from-businesses-interested-in-providing-visitor-services-in-dry-tortugas-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parkreopens.htm Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:40:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park re-opens to visitors today. Dry Tortugas National Park has been closed since October 1 due to the lapse in Congressional appropriations. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parkreopens.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parkcommemorates500yearsdrtopr0061313.htm Thu, 13 Jun 2013 05:20:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park will join the state of Florida and many partners in commemorating 500 years of history since Ponce De Leon landed in Florida. We invite all Florida residents and visitors arriving to explore or communities to visit spectacular national park and the Key West area to enjoy special programs at the park and the Eco Discovery Center. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parkcommemorates500yearsdrtopr0061313.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/rna5years072312.htm Mon, 23 Jul 2012 13:07:00 EST When Agencies Come Together, Fisheries Benefit https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/rna5years072312.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/preservingfortjeffersondrtopr072212.htm Sun, 22 Jul 2012 10:23:00 EST The next episode of Waterways ventures 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, to Dry Tortugas National Park, where park staff, masons, conservation specialists and the 482nd Civil Engineers Squadron from Homestead Air Reserve Base are hard at work preserving Fort Jefferson. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/preservingfortjeffersondrtopr072212.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/freeadmissionsaturday060912.htm Tue, 05 Jun 2012 12:30:00 EST Everglades & Dry Tortugas Offer Free Admission this Saturday https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/freeadmissionsaturday060912.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/freemilitarypassesdrto051812.htm Fri, 18 May 2012 05:52:00 EST Thanking America’s Armed Forces Active Duty U.S. Military Offered Free Entrance to All National Parks https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/freemilitarypassesdrto051812.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parkeconomicimpactdrtopr031612.htm Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:39:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park = visitors, money and jobs for local economy! https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parkeconomicimpactdrtopr031612.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/mooringballsinplacedrtopr102811.htm Fri, 28 Oct 2011 11:55:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park Mooring Balls in Place for Visitor Use. All visitors wanting to take vessels into the Research Natural Area (RNA) must have a permit and use one of the six mooring balls located in this area. Vessels are limited to 2 hours at a time on a mooring buoy. Vessels are no longer allowed to anchor within the area marked as the Research Natural Area. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/mooringballsinplacedrtopr102811.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtopr_110711_cuaapplications.htm Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:09:00 EST Park Accepting Applications From Businesses Interested in Providing Visitor Services in the Park https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtopr_110711_cuaapplications.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtoprparkscuratorrecognized.htm Wed, 17 Aug 2011 04:39:00 EST South Florida National Parks Curator recognized for cultural resource stewardship https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtoprparkscuratorrecognized.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/constructionatdrytortugas.htm Mon, 02 May 2011 20:00:00 EST Construction on new visitor boat slips may impact campers at Garden Key https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/constructionatdrytortugas.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/pr050311boatpermitsatdrytortugas.htm Mon, 02 May 2011 20:00:00 EST Permits required for boating in Dry Tortugas National Park https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/pr050311boatpermitsatdrytortugas.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtopr75thanniversaryevents.htm Sun, 17 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park Celebrates 75th Anniversary November 5 and 6 2010 with special events https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtopr75thanniversaryevents.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/75thanniversarylectures2010.htm Mon, 06 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park Celebrates 75th Anniversary with a Lecture Series in Key West https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/75thanniversarylectures2010.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtonews050510seaplaneservice.htm Tue, 04 May 2010 20:00:00 EST Sea Plane Service to Dry Tortugas National Park now Available https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtonews050510seaplaneservice.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto41310freenationalparkweek.htm Mon, 12 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST Special Programs Offered and Entrance Fees waived at both parks April 17 - 25 https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto41310freenationalparkweek.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/turtle-display-at-fort-jefferson.htm Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST Save-A-Turtle brings new turtle exhibit to Dry Tortugas National Park. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/turtle-display-at-fort-jefferson.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/nps-accepting-applications-to-provide-visitor-services-to-dry-tortugas.htm Sun, 04 Oct 2009 20:00:00 EST National Park Service Accepting Applications to Provide Visitor Services to Dry Tortugas National Park https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/nps-accepting-applications-to-provide-visitor-services-to-dry-tortugas.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/nps-accepting-seaplane-service-applications.htm Sun, 04 Oct 2009 20:00:00 EST National Park Service Accepting Applications to Provide Seaplane Service to Dry Tortugas National Park from Key West. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/nps-accepting-seaplane-service-applications.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/help-us-make-americas-best-idea-even-better.htm Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST Help Us Make America’s Best Idea Even Better! Join Dry Tortugas National Park on September 26 for a Day of Service and Celebration https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/help-us-make-americas-best-idea-even-better.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/virtual-experience-through-podcasts-and-webcams.htm Wed, 26 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST Can't get to Everglades or Dry Tortugas? - No Problem - Visit us On the World Wide Web for a Virtual Experience through Podcasts and Webcams https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/virtual-experience-through-podcasts-and-webcams.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/update-on-garden-key-harbor-light-stamp-dedication-july-23.htm Tue, 21 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST Postal Service to issue Stamp Commemorating the Dry Tortugas Garden Key Harbor Light https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/update-on-garden-key-harbor-light-stamp-dedication-july-23.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/fort-jefferson-lighthouse-stamp-dedication.htm Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST Superintendent Kimball to speak at Stamp Dedication Ceremony Commemorating the Dry Tortugas Garden Key Harbor Light https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/fort-jefferson-lighthouse-stamp-dedication.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/fee-free-weekends-this-summer.htm Sun, 14 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST America’s Best Idea – the national parks – gets even better this summer…it’s free! https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/fee-free-weekends-this-summer.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/archaelogy-excavation-this-weekend.htm Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST Experience an Archaeology Excavation at Historic Fort Jefferson this Weekend https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/archaelogy-excavation-this-weekend.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/archeology-excavation-at-fort-jefferson.htm Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:00:00 EST Experience an Archaeology Excavation at Historic Fort Jefferson https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/archeology-excavation-at-fort-jefferson.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-announce-a-fee-free-weekend-september-27-and-28-2008.htm Sun, 21 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks announce a Fee Free Weekend September 27-28, 2008 https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-announce-a-fee-free-weekend-september-27-and-28-2008.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-following-the-passage-of-hurricane-ike.htm Tue, 09 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Everglades National Park Reopens Following the Passage of Hurricane Ike https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-national-park-reopens-following-the-passage-of-hurricane-ike.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parks-extend-closure-following-passage-of-hurricane-ike.htm Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Parks Extend Closure Following Passage of Hurricane Ike https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/parks-extend-closure-following-passage-of-hurricane-ike.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/temporary-park-closures-in-effect-for-hurricane-ike-on-tuesday-september-9.htm Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Temporary Park Closures in Effect for Hurricane Ike on Tuesday, September 9 https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/temporary-park-closures-in-effect-for-hurricane-ike-on-tuesday-september-9.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-remains-closed-for-ike.htm Fri, 05 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park Remains closed for Ike https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/dry-tortugas-national-park-remains-closed-for-ike.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/temporary-park-closure-due-to-hurricane-ike.htm Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST Temporary Park Closure due to Hurricane Ike https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/temporary-park-closure-due-to-hurricane-ike.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-to-reopen-after-ts-fay.htm Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST EVERGLADES AND DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARKS TO REOPEN FOLLOWING THE PASSAGE OF TROPICAL STORM FAY https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-to-reopen-after-ts-fay.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-temporarily-close-due-to-pending-tropical-storm-fay.htm Sat, 16 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks temporarily close due to pending Tropical Storm Fay https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/everglades-and-dry-tortugas-national-parks-temporarily-close-due-to-pending-tropical-storm-fay.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/request-for-bids-to-provide-ferry-service-to-dry-tortugas-national-park.htm Mon, 05 May 2008 20:00:00 EST National Park Service Issues Request for Bids to Provide Ferry Service to Dry Tortugas National Park  https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/request-for-bids-to-provide-ferry-service-to-dry-tortugas-national-park.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto-accepting-applications-from-businesses-interested-in-providing-visitor-services.htm Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park accepting applications for Commercial use Authorizations. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drto-accepting-applications-from-businesses-interested-in-providing-visitor-services.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/cannonproject.htm Thu, 15 Feb 2007 19:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park begins Cannon Conservation Project. https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/cannonproject.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/researchnaturalarea.htm Wed, 17 Jan 2007 19:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas Research Natural Area No-Fishing No-Anchoring Area Effective January 19, 2007 https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/researchnaturalarea.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/bomarsupport.htm Mon, 13 Nov 2006 19:00:00 EST Park Director Bomar Applauds Florida Governor’s and Cabinet’s Concurrence on No-Take Marine Reserve in Dry Tortugas National Park https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/bomarsupport.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtoernestoreopen.htm Tue, 29 Aug 2006 20:00:00 EST Dry Tortugas National Park Reopens Following Hurricane Ernesto Closure https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/drtoernestoreopen.htm https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/ernestoclosure.htm Sat, 26 Aug 2006 20:00:00 EST Park Closes for Tropical Storm Ernesto https://www.nps.gov/drto/learn/news/ernestoclosure.htm