John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park Campground

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Campground

Discover the stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Campground, the first undersea park in the United States, located in Key Largo, Florida. Covering approximately 70 nautical square miles, this park is a haven for nature lovers, beachgoers, and adventure seekers alike. With a focus on eco-tourism and recreation, this campground offers a unique blend of activities that immerse you in the breathtaking underwater world while providing comfort and accessibility for all guests.

Amenities and Accommodation

The campground features 42 reservable campsites equipped with electrical outlets (30-amp, 50-amp, and 110), as well as water and sewer hookups. Each campsite comes with a picnic table and grill for your convenience.

Laundry Facilities: Two washing machines and dryers are available, with per-load prices comparable to local businesses.
Restroom Facilities: The campground has a large bathhouse offering hot water showers, with additional outdoor showers located throughout the park.
Accessible Amenities: Several accessible picnic pavilions, restroom facilities, and campsites ensure inclusivity for all visitors.
Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted according to the park’s pet policy.
Campfire Circles: Enjoy evening storytelling and ranger programs at the campfire circle located near the campground.

Activities and Experiences

John Pennekamp is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can:

Embark on snorkeling and scuba diving tours to explore coral reefs teeming with over 600 species of fish and 70 species of coral.
Enjoy various natural trails suitable for hiking and wildlife viewing, including the Mangrove Trail and Grove Trail.
Participate in educational programs, from Junior Ranger activities to guided walks led by park rangers.
Explore the vibrant underwater ecosystems via glass-bottom boat tours, which allow you to see the reefs without getting wet.
Rent kayaks or canoes for a peaceful paddle through the park’s mangroves and waterways.

Visitor Services

The Visitor Center serves as an informative hub for guests, offering:

A 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium featuring marine life harvested from the park.
Nature videos that showcase the park’s beauty and biodiversity.
A gift shop with souvenirs, sundries, and water sports equipment available for rent.
The Blue Heron Café, offering a delightful menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Accessibility

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is committed to making its amenities accessible for everyone. Key features include:

A wheelchair-friendly dock for kayaking and canoe rental.
An accessible glass-bottom boat for snorkeling trips.
Accessible restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground area.

Important Information

Fees: Camping fees range from $32.25 to $53.75 per night depending on group size, plus additional utility fees and reservation charges. The park entrance fee is $4.50 per vehicle.

Regulations: Fishing within park boundaries requires adherence to designated regulations, and all diving activities must be conducted responsibly. Alcohol consumption is allowed within the campsite only.

Park Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, visitors are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly as parking can fill up quickly during peak times.

Whether you’re looking to dive deep into the waters of the Florida Keys or simply wish to enjoy a peaceful camping experience surrounded by stunning landscapes, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Campground is an unmissable destination.