The Everglades is vast, and it has so many different areas for people to explore. One such area is Royal Palm State Park. This Park was established in 1916, but it was surveyed back in 1847 by Jack Jackson. Scientists studied the area and it became known for its botanical diversity and hammock.

In 1916, the state of Florida said 960 acres would be set aside as a state park so it could be safe from  development. At the time, Henry Flagler owned much land in the area and the Florida Federation of Women’s Club was afraid he would build on this land. This group’s campaign to save this land is what made the state grant the land to them as a park. Five years later, the state donated 2,080 more acres to the park. Now, Royal Palm State Park is 4,000 acres in size.

In this park, visitors can find lots of trails, Research Road, the Nike Missile Site HM-69, bird watching, camping, biking, programs, boating, slogging, horseback riding, tours, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and the Pine Rocklands. There is also an information station and bookstore that is worth visiting; there are vending machines and restrooms. The information station/visitor center offers ranger-led walks and talks in the area. The center is a little over a mile from the Homestead Park entrance.  The Park stretches from the Homestead entrance to the Flamingo Entrance.

Visit the Park

If you’re looking for a great place to explore, Royal Palm State Park is a great place. The visitor center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (December to April) and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (May to November).  If you want a more expansive way to view the Everglades, you can jump on an airboat and take a tour. Click here or call 800-368-0065 to book a tour with Captain Mitch’s Airboat Tours today.

Photo courtesy: National Park Service