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Escape Winter and Explore the Everglades While Staying in These Eco-Tents

Gone since 2005, in-park accommodations are back at Everglades National Park.

By: Sara Sheehy + Save to a List

When two hurricanes destroyed the rustic but much-loved Flamingo Everglades Lodge in 2005, the National Park Service wasn't quite sure what to do. Faced with the challenge of providing lodgings that modern park visitors will appreciate, they grappled with the increasing intensity of storms that test even the most sturdy of coastal buildings. They set their sights on working with a hospitality company to create dozens of eco-glamping tents and cabins.

The result? A great place to stay on your trip to the Everglades this winter.

Opening in November 2019, the Flamingo Everglades offers eco-glamping tents, houseboat rentals, and two campgrounds inside Everglades National Park. 

Get ready to explore the wilder side of Florida.

Eco-Glamping Tents


Camping can be a pain on vacation, especially if you fly to your destination. Who has room for gear in their luggage? Add in restrictions on what you can and can't bring in your carry-on and checked baggage, and you may throw up your hands and say, "Fine! We're staying at a hotel!"

Enter: glamping. Flamingo Everglades's eco-glamping tents feature either a queen bed or two double beds, two nightstands, a chest of drawers, and a seating area. It's everything you need to stay comfortable while still feeling like you're sleeping under the stars...no extra gear required.

Camping in the Everglades


If you do choose to pack your camping gear, or if you drive to the Everglades, the Flamingo Everglades has two campgrounds that accommodate both tent camping and RVs. 

Long Pine Key Campground, which is next to the 22-mile Long Pine Key Trail, has spacious sites, restrooms, and showers. A bit closer to the water, the Flamingo Campground is an open space right on the Florida Bay. Enjoy picnic tables, grills, an amphitheater for winter programming, and showers all within sight of the water. 

Cruise in a Houseboat


Ready for an adventure on the water? Grab some friends and book a houseboat at Flamingo Everglades. The 42-foot boats sleep up to six people. They include two bedrooms, a living room, a bathroom, a galley kitchen with an oven and a range, and everything you need to make the most out of your days and nights on the water.

Keep your eyes open for crocodiles!

Outdoor Adventures Near Flamingo Everglades

Photo by Rob Witt

Outdoor recreation abounds in the Everglades. Hop on a backcountry boat tour with a naturalist to see and learn about the flora and fauna of this watery wonderland. Rent a bike and pedal that 14-mile, paved Shark Valley Trail. Hike through a sawgrass marsh on the Anhinga Trail (alligator sighting probable!). Paddle the Nine Mile Pond Canoe Trail, traveling through mangrove forests and open meadows.

Or simply sit on the front deck of your eco-glamping tent, admiring the view, and watching manatees crest in the bay. Doesn't get much better than that, does it?

Cover photo courtesy of Guest Services

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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