Florida / Miami-Dade County / Biscayne National Park

Elliot Key Campground

Open — Open and operating first-come, first-served through December 31, 2025. Payment is made on-site via the Recreation.gov mobile app by scanning a QR code. Limited cellular connectivity on the island, so download the app prior to arrival.

About

Elliott Key Campground sits on the largest island in Biscayne National Park, once home to pineapple farmers and pioneers. Today it serves as a primitive boat-in camping destination with 20 waterside and partially forested campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground is located on the Biscayne Bay side and features restrooms with sinks and cold water showers, picnic tables, and grills. Drinking water is typically available, though the system can go down. The island offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, hiking, and fishing. A mile-long loop trail starts near the campground, while the infamous "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island through maritime forest habitat. Fishing is permitted from the maintenance dock south of the harbor or from the shoreline outside the no-wake zone. The marina features 33 boat slips, though navigators should note that at low tide, the entrance depth is approximately 2.5 feet.

Directions

Elliott Key is only accessible by boat. Use of a nautical chart and/or GPS is recommended for safe navigation. At low tide, the depth of the entrance to the marina is approximately 2.5 feet.

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