Boca Chita

Summary

Boca Chita Key is a popular island destination in the park accessible only by boat, offering beautiful waterfront views, camping areas, picnic tables and grills, plus flushable toilets. There is a half mile hiking trail and a historic lighthouse for visitors to explore. Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis only, and there are charges and cancellations restrictions in place.

Overview

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

Boca Chita Key is the park's most popular island. It features beautiful waterfront views, a grassy camping area, picnic tables and grills. Toilets are available, but there are no showers, sinks or drinking water. The harbor entrance at low tide is approximately four feet. 

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

Boca Chita Key features daytime use and overnight camping. Grills and picnic tables are in designated camping areas.
A half mile hiking trail starts just east of the restrooms. The trail continues to the south end of the island and emerges near the pavilion.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables and grills are available at the designated campsites
• Flushable toilets are available at Boca Chita Key. There is no drinking water or electricity, sales facilities, sinks or showers.
• Camping and marina use fees are due daily upon arrival or no later than official sunset.
• No reservations may be made in advance for these campgrounds; they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Tents – Permitted in designated areas only. There is no backcountry camping in the park. Camping is limited to fourteen consecutive days or no more than thirty days within a calendar year.
• Trash – There is no trash collection. Pack out all trash.
• Quiet Hours - 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. During quiet hours all noise must be kept to a minimum.
• Insects – May be prevalent year round. Expect heavy populations of insects during the warmer months.
• Pets, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed on Boca Chita Key including vessels docked at Boca Chita Key.
• Fires - Ground fires are not permitted except at the group campsite on Elliott Key. Dead and downed wood may be collected only within the vicinity of the campgrounds.
• Wildlife – Do not feed wildlife. Food and garbage should be stored in a boat or animal-proof cooler.
• Swimming – Swimming is not permitted in boat harbors.

Natural Features

The iconic and historic lighthouse, built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s, guides boats to the beauty and wonders of the park. Boca Chita is the most visited island in the park.

The observation deck of the 65 foot tall lighthouse provides a fantastic view of islands, bay, ocean and Miami skyline. If park employees are around they may be able to open the observation deck for viewing.

A half mile hiking trail starts just east of the restrooms. The trail continues to the south end of the island and emerges near the pavilion.

Nearby Attractions

Boca Chita Key is located just north of Elliott Key.

Charges & Cancellations

Ensure one of the designated 21 campsites is available prior to paying. Once payment is made on-site, we do not offer refunds or modifications.