Parks

Established in 1947 as the first national park created for its biodiversity, Everglades National Park protects 1.5 million acres of wetland, forest, and marine habitats and the native plants and animals that call it home. With several international designations, the park provides a major source of drinking water for local residents of South Florida and recreational opportunities for all.

Map showing location of park.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service Responds to the Coptic Fire in Everglades National Park

2026-06-19

On June 17, a wildfire started by lighting in the northeastern area of Everglades National Park. Named the Coptic Fire, it is now 4,793 acres in size with 40% containment. The fire is located approximately five miles south of U.S. Highway 41 and 3.2 miles west of the L-31N Canal and is burning primarily in prairie habitat.

Two men in purple shirts work with a ranger checking them in at a table with a green table cloth.

Everglades National Park Joins Florida Python Challenge™ to Combat Invasive Burmese Pythons

2026-05-19

Everglades National Park announced today its continued support and collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, the South Florida Water Management District and other partners for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge™. The annual python removal competition is a public initiative dedicated to raising awareness about invasive species and providing opportunities for the public to get involved in protecting the Everglades ecosystem by removing invasive Burmese pythons. 

Two wildland firefighters in yellow shirts and white hard hats watch a helicopter while standing near a white truck with red stripe.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service Continues Suppression of Highway 41 Fire in Everglades National Park

2026-04-30

The Highway 41 Fire continues to burn and is now approximately 8,500 acres in size with 20% containment. The fire, which started on April 27, is located in the northeastern corner of Everglades National Park, south of U.S. Highway 41 and east of Shark Valley and the airboat concessions.

A white fire truck parked on the side of the road near two firefighters working on an active burn.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service Responds to Highway 41 Fire Burning in Everglades National Park

2026-04-28

On the evening of April 27, a wildfire was reported in the northeastern corner of Everglades National Park. Highway 41 fire burns south of U.S. Route 41.

Everglades National Park Hosts Dark Sky Festival

2026-01-30

The National Park Service is offering the public a special opportunity to experience Everglades National Park at night. The Dark Sky Festival will take place on Feb. 21 from 1 to 10 p.m. in Flamingo, Fla.