Elliot Key

Summary

Elliott Key is the largest island in the park, accessible only by boat. It offers camping, picnicking, wildlife watching and hiking trails, as well as 33 boat slips in the marina. Pets are allowed in developed areas and fishing regulations apply. Visitors must physically arrive on-site to purchase and claim a site.

Overview

Eliott Key is only accessible by boat. No services are available on the island.

Elliott Key is the park's largest island. Restrooms with sinks and cold water showers, picnic tables and grills are available. Drinking water is available, but bring water as a precaution if the system goes down. There are 33 boat slips in the marina.

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. 

There is limited cellular connectivity at this location. Please download the free Recreation.gov mobile app and create an account prior to arrival.

Recreation

Daytime use and overnight camping - the campground is located on the Biscayne Bay side. Overnight camping and docking fees are required. 

Picknicking - tables and barbecue grills are available in the campground and marina. 

Hiking - a mile-long loop trail starts near the campground. Also, "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. It affords a good opportunity to see a variety of habitats in the martime forest. 

Fishing - permitted from the maintenance dock (south of the harbor) or from the shoreline outside of the no-wake zone. Fishing regulations apply.

Facilities

• Camping - the campground is located on the Biscayne Bay side. Overnight camping and docking fees are required.
• Picknicking - tables and barbecue grills are available in the campground and marina.
• Restrooms - cold water showers are available. Fresh drinking water is located outside the building. It is recommended that you bring your own fresh water, just in case the generator breaks down.
• Hiking - a mile-long loop trail starts near the campground. Also, "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. It affords a good opportunity to see a variety of habitats in the martime forest.
• Fishing - permitted from the maintenance dock (south of the harbor) or from the shoreline outside of the no-wake zone. Fishing regulations apply.

Things to Remember -

• Mosquitoes and no-see-ums (biting midges) are prevalent year round.
• Pack out all trash.
• There are no sales facilities
• Boats may dock among 33 slips.
• Pets on a leash are permitted in the developed areas of Elliott Key. Pets may not be left unattended.

Natural Features

The largest island in the park was once a thriving community of pioneers engaged in pineapple farming, sponging, wrecking, and other pursuits. Today the island offers camping, picnicking, wildlife watching and a hiking trail.

A mile-long loop trail starts near the campground. Also, "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. It affords a good opportunity to see a variety of habitats in the martime forest.

Nearby Attractions

Elliott Key is located just south of Boca Chita Key. 

Charges & Cancellations

Ensure one of the designated campsites is available prior to paying. Once payment is made on-site, we do not offer refunds or modifications.