Main Page - Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park » Florida State Parks Official Site

A butterfly tree orchid in bloom on a buttonwood tree.

Manager's Message

Fall has finally arrived and with it came some cooler temperatures. We have had a very wet fall so far, so mosquitoes are out in abundance, but our restored caretaker’s home is still a treat to see, no matter what. The historic Matheson House gives visitors a glimpse of “times gone by” in a natural pristine setting.

As the holidays are approaching, we would like to invite everyone to join us for our annual “Lignumvitae Christmas” on December 6th & 7th. The Matheson House will be decorated in an early 1900s ambiance of the Florida Keys. Visitors will see how caretakers of the past would have adorned the walls of their home during the holidays. They will also be able to sample homemade cookies, cakes and refreshments and decorate their own ornaments. Meet at Robbie’s Marina, located at MM 77.5, bayside for transportation. Tour boats will begin shuttling passengers to the island at 9:00 a.m. and continue until 3:00 p.m. For any questions about the event, please call (305) 664-2540. Special event fee applies.

- Melba Nezbed, Park Manager

Welcome to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

The virgin tropical hardwood hammock that thrives on this island was once common on most of Florida's Upper Keys; most of these forests have been lost to development on other islands. In 1919, William J. Matheson, a wealthy Miami chemist, bought this tiny island and built a caretaker's home with a windmill for electricity and a cistern for rainwater. Today, his hideaway is the visitor center for this island forest. Ranger-guided tours are given twice daily, Thursday through Monday. The park is accessible only by private boat or tour boat. Tour boat services, as well as boat and kayak rentals, are available from Robbie's Marina. For tour reservations call (305) 664-9814. Located one mile west of U.S. 1 at Mile Marker 78.5.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, please call 305-664-2540.

Hours of Operation

Park is open Thursday through Monday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tours of the historic Matheson House and grounds are available at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday.

Driving Directions

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is located one mile west of U.S.1 at Mile Marker 78.5. Access is by private boat or charter boats at nearby marinas.