Backcountry campsites in Everglades National Park can be reserved online beginning Nov 27/NPS, Jane Gamble

Beginning Tuesday you'll be able to go online to try to make a wilderness camping reservation for campsites in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness of Everglades National Park in Florida.

On Tuesday at Recreation.gov you'll be able to check the availability of wilderness campsites in real time, reserve a wilderness campsite up to three months in advance, and receive immediate confirmation.

Previously, wilderness camping permits were available on a first-come, first-served basis in person, only as early as one day in advance of the trip. This was often an obstacle for visitors traveling from around the world and trying to plan their visit.

The park will retain a small number of campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis for walk-up visitors, available on the day of or the day before the trip start date. Unreserved campsites will become available for same-day reservations in person.

“We are always striving to provide the best access to recreational opportunities in the park,” said Superintendent Pedro Ramos. “In addition to convenience, scheduling a trip in advance results in better preparation, less stress for the visitor, and more effective management of our wilderness camping system.”

All wilderness campers will still need to go in person to either the Flamingo or Gulf Coast Visitor Center to receive their printed permit, confirm trip plans and get current conditions. Same day reservations must be made in person at the Flamingo or Gulf Coast Visitor Center.

Advanced reservations are available on a rolling basis, three months in advance of the start date. Permit costs are $21 for the permit and $2 per person per night camping fee. The costs will apply for advanced reservations and walk-up permits year-round. A credit card is needed for both online and in-person permit reservations.

Recreation.gov offers permit reservations through its website, the Recreation.gov App, and by telephone Toll-free in the U.S. (877) 444-6777 or International (606) 515-6777.

Created in 1995 to provide a reservation service to the public for Federal recreation facilities and activities, the Recreation.gov website hosts over 20 million visitors and processes more than 4.8 million reservations each year. A dozen federal agencies participate with Recreation.gov to offer more than 100,000 reservable sites and activities. Today, it remains the one-stop resource for reservations and extensive trip-planning services to its millions of visitors.

The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness encompasses 97 percent of Everglades National Park and offers unparalleled opportunities to recreate in a primitive environment. Visitors to this wilderness can experience solitude, discovery, personal challenge and self-reliance in settings that allow the burdens of everyday life to fade away. Visitors can return home with a refreshed spirit and a greater appreciation of the majesty and beauty of their public lands.

More information on wilderness camping in Everglades National Park.

More information on advanced reservations and to create a free account

Frequently Asked Questions about the reservations and permits