Manager's Message

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a hotspot for a variety of bird species during the spring. Returning from wintering homes throughout South America, birds will take brief rests on these islands that have hardwood hammocks and water.

Lignumvitae Key provides an open lawn area surrounded by a dense, hardwood hammock and a naturally occurring water source. We see a variety of birds, especially warblers, like Palm, Myrtle, Black & White, American Red Start and Cape May, to name a few.

Also seen perched atop the windmill tower in the open yard, is a nesting Osprey pair. Typically, during late spring and early summer, the parents can be seen rearing the current year’s hatchlings.

Spring also provides an opportunity to spot Black-whiskered Vireos, Indigo Buntings and Painted Buntings. Come visit us while the weather is great and the mosquitoes are few!

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-Monday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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.

Park Fees

Please call the Park for information at 305-664-2540.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

P.O. Box 1052
Islamorada, Florida 33036
Phone: 305-664-2540
Fax: Contact Park for Number

Citizen Support Organization

Friends of Islamorada Area State Parks, Inc.
P.O. Box 236
Islamorada, FL 33036