Where are the Dry Tortugas?
Learn More about
Dry Tortugas
Learn More about
Dry Tortugas
Learn a bit about Dry Tortugas National Park through these fun and interesting facts
Origin
The park’s name comes from Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, who discovered the islands in 1513 and named them “Las Tortugas” for the many sea turtles he found there. “Dry” was later added to warn sailors of the lack of fresh water.
Origin
The park’s name comes from Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, who discovered the islands in 1513 and named them “Las Tortugas” for the many sea turtles he found there. “Dry” was later added to warn sailors of the lack of fresh water.
Topography
The seven small islands are coral and sand formations built atop submerged reefs; most of the land area is occupied by Fort Jefferson — one of the largest brick structures in the Western Hemisphere.
Topography
The seven small islands are coral and sand formations built atop submerged reefs; most of the land area is occupied by Fort Jefferson — one of the largest brick structures in the Western Hemisphere.
Wildlife
The park is a crucial nesting site for sea turtles and seabirds, including sooty terns and brown noddy terns, which arrive by the thousands each spring.
Wildlife
The park is a crucial nesting site for sea turtles and seabirds, including sooty terns and brown noddy terns, which arrive by the thousands each spring.
Ecosystem
Its reefs feature over 200 species of fish and living coral; the clear waters make it one of the best snorkeling destinations in North America.
Ecosystem
Its reefs feature over 200 species of fish and living coral; the clear waters make it one of the best snorkeling destinations in North America.
Historic Significance
Fort Jefferson served as a Civil War prison — most notably housing Dr. Samuel Mudd, convicted of aiding Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, John Wilkes Booth.
Historic Significance
Fort Jefferson served as a Civil War prison — most notably housing Dr. Samuel Mudd, convicted of aiding Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, John Wilkes Booth.
Unique Access
There are no bridges or roads — visitors arrive by daily ferry, private boat, or seaplane, making it one of the most secluded National Parks in the U.S.
Unique Access
There are no bridges or roads — visitors arrive by daily ferry, private boat, or seaplane, making it one of the most secluded National Parks in the U.S.
