Considered to be the nucleus of the Everglades, Royal Palm State Park was established in 1916 after it was set aside to be saved from development. It practically doubled in size (to 4,000 acres) a short while after and was officially named a protected state park in 1921.
Guests to the visitor center can park in the parking lot, grab a guide brochure, and walk the raised boardwalks of the Anhinga and Gumbo Limbo Trails. Stay on the lookout for all manner of creatures including alligators, great blue herons, and anhinga—a water bird with a long, snake-like neck, and the trail’s namesake. Consider sticking around for a ranger-led tour down one of the trails to learn more about the Everglades and Royal Palm State Park.
The Royal Palm Visitor Center is located 4 miles (6 kilometers) into the park from the Homestead entrance. From Florida’s Turnpike south, take exit 1 before turning right at the first light on Palm Drive. Continue on Palm Drive and then turn left at the four-way-stop onto Tower Road. Follow Tower Road before turning right at the four-way stop onto S.W. 376th Street. Take 376th Street all the way into the park and then follow signs for the Royal Palm area, which is the first left after you enter the park.
The visitor center is open throughout the year. Peak season is typically during the park’s dry season (November through April) due to mild temperatures, low humidity, clear skies, and fewer mosquitoes.
