Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo

Flamingo Visitor Center is located about 38 miles (a one-hour drive) south of the Homestead entrance point to Everglades National Park. It is the southernmost tip of the Florida peninsula. Popular among boaters, campers, and nature enthusiasts, this center is staffed by park rangers and offers unique boat tours, great fishing, and opportunities to view a variety of birds and wildlife. It’s also a meeting place for hikers who want to explore West Lake Trail, Snake Bight Trail, Rowdy Bend Trail, Christian Point Trail, Bear Lake Trail, Eco Pond Trail, Guy Bradley Trail, Bayshore Loop Trail, and Coastal Prairie Trail.

Visitor Center Amenities and Services

Flamingo Visitor Center has plenty of activities for visitors of all ages, especially those who love the outdoors.

With its onsite public boat ramp, Flamingo Visitor Center is a jumping-off point for two boat tours. The Backcountry Boat Tour takes visitors through Buttonwood Canal, Coot Bay, Tarpon Creek and Whitewater Bay. The tour usually departs daily, but check with the visitor center for hours and fees. The Florida Bay Tour is led by a naturalist who points out the park’s interesting plant and animal habitats and rich history. This tour also usually departs daily, but check with the visitor center for hours and fees. Tickets for both can be purchased online or at the nearby Marina Store.

For those who want to go out on the water but don’t want a tour, canoe and kayak rentals can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis by calling Everglades Guest Services at (239) 695-1095. Bike rentals are also available.

Forget something? The Marina Store has everything you need including snacks, drinks, gifts, ice, frozen bait and tackle, firewood, camping supplies, and even a food truck with sandwiches, salads, and other items.

A fuel station with regular and diesel fuel for boats and vehicles is available and open to the public.

Lodging

Flamingo Visitor Center has camping facilities for individuals and groups alike. Electric, non-electric, and group camping sites can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are needed during the off-season, which is from April 16 to November 19. During the summer wet season, some camping areas are closed due to flooding.

Eco tents can also be reserved in advance by calling (239) 695-2945. Contact the center ahead of your visit to confirm normal operating hours and amenity availability.