You are here

Biscayne National Park Closes Elliott Key Harbor And Campground To Protect Visitors From Themselves

Published Date

February 7, 2013

After watching several boat captains swim to shore after dropping off passengers and gear at Elliott Key Harbor for camping, Biscayne National Park officials have decided to close the harbor and campground to prevent possible drownings.

Three boat slips in Elliott Key Harbor were opened last weekend to provide short-term access for unloading and loading passengers and gear. The intention was that after using the slips, captains would anchor outside the harbor and reach the shore via vessels that can be hand carried to and from the shoreline, such as canoes, kayaks or other small boats. However, after opening the slips, park officials observed numerous boat captains using the slips to unload, then anchoring outside the harbor and attempting to swim to shore, the park said in a release.

With cooler weather, frequently windy conditions, currents, and submerged obstacles in the water, attempting to swim to shore is a tremendously risky endeavor. Providing limited access to Elliott Key Harbor exacerbated potential drowning risks for island visitors, the release went on.

"We understand that closing the harbor and campground during the winter camping season is an unfortunate last resort, but public safety is our primary concern," said Biscayne Chief Ranger Willie Lopez. "In the meantime, we are doing everything possible to restore Elliott Key Harbor to full operations after extensive structural damage sustained by the docks during Tropical Storm Sandy."

As always, landing on the concrete maintenance dock south of the harbor is closed to the public and open to official use only, however University Dock, north of the harbor, is open to the public for day use only.

Other Islands:

All other areas of the park remain open as they were prior to the Tropical Storm Sandy's brush with South Florida. Boca Chita Key is fully open, including the harbor and campground. Only one boat may raft to another boat tied to/docked in the harbor. Adams Key is fully open, but for day use only.

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Donate Popup

The National Parks Traveler keeps you informed on how politics impact national parks and protected areas.

Become a sustaining member.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.