Welcome to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The first underwater park in the U.S., John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses approximately 70 nautical square miles. While the mangrove swamps and tropical hammocks in the park’s upland areas offer visitors a unique experience, it is the coral reefs and their associated marine life that bring most visitors to the park. Many enjoy the view of the reef from a glass-bottom boat tour, but visitors can get a closer look by scuba diving or snorkeling. Canoeing and kayaking through the park’s waters are popular activities; fishing is permitted in designated areas. Visitors can enjoy walking on short trails, picnicking, or swimming at the beach. The Visitor Center has a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium and nature videos are shown in its theater. Full-facility and Youth/Group campsites are available. Beach wheelchairs are available without cost.

Florida’s state parks are committed to providing equal access to all facilities and programs. Should you need assistance to enable your participation, please contact the park directly.

For boat tour information and reservations, please call (305) 451-6300.

Located at Mile Marker 102.5 Overseas Highway in Key Largo.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, please call 305-451-1202.

Book Your Vacation Spot Now!

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is located on U.S. Highway 1 at Mile Marker 102.5, north of Key Largo in the Florida Keys.

Park Fees

Admission Fee:

$8.00* per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$2.00* Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

$4.00* Single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle.

*Plus $.50 per person Monroe County Surcharge.

Boat Ramp Fee

$10.00 per vessel, day use only.

Campsite Fees:

$36.00 8 people maximum per site; includes water & electric

Pavilion Fees:

$53.75 (includes taxes) – Large (maximum capacity 60 people).

$32.25 (includes taxes) – Small (capacity 12-15 people).

Pavilion fees do not include the required entrance fees. Admission is not guaranteed if the parking capacity is full.

Activities at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

	Beaches John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has two manmade beaches, each with its own distinct personality. Cannon Beach is the park’s primary snorkeling beach, where visitors will find the remnants of an early Spanish shipwreck approximately 100-feet offshore. Far Beach, with its palm trees, is a relaxing place to swim or just sit and enjoy the sun. Wheelchair accessibility to the water is enhanced by a Mobi-Mat installed across the sandy beach. Any swimming or snorkeling done outside the designated swimming areas is prohibited unless a Diver-Down flag is properly displayed.
	Boat Ramp The park has a very good deepwater boat ramp, located at the marina. The ramp can handle most boats up to 36 feet in length.
	Boat Tours John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has four different types of boat tours to ensure that all park visitors have the best opportunity possible to experience the park’s coral reef system. The glass-bottom and snorkeling trips depart from the park’s docks three times a day, 365 days a year, weather permitting. Both these tours last 2 ½ hours and allow for 1 ½ hours of reef time to view the park’s living coral and its associated marine life up close and personal. The Encounter, a wheelchair-friendly snorkeling vessel, features wheelchair tie-downs, as well as an oversized marine restroom for guests. Rental equipment is available. The park also has a PADI Five-Star Gold Palm dive shop, offering a full range of courses from Open Water through Instructor. The Resort Course offered introduces the fledgling diver to diving and the coral reef in one day. The four-hour scuba diving tours offer divers two-location, two-tank dives.
	Boating Boaters should always use caution in shallow reef areas and when approaching any area where there are Diver-Down flags displayed, swimmers, or moored boats. Always obtain a navigation chart (NOAA #14F for Pennekamp waters) before departing for open water. Combustible engines are not permitted in or near shore areas of the park where the water is less than four feet deep. For those boaters that do not have a boat, the park concession maintains a boat rental where boats may be rented for four-hour and eight-hour intervals. Boat slips and moorings are available at the marina for overnight rental. Slips are located in the marina and include water and electric hookups with bathroom and shower facilities nearby. Mooring buoys are located in Largo Sound with dinghy dockage at the marina. Both slip and buoy rentals include full use of the park facilities, including trash disposal and pump-out. Reservations are recommended. For more information, please contact the Pennekamp Dock Master at (305) 451-6325 or on VHF channel 16.
	Canoeing & Kayaking The park has 2 ½ miles of marked mangrove wilderness trails to explore. The mangroves and crystal clear waters that surround them provide habitat for a wide variety of birds and marine life. The park concession rents canoes and one- or two-person kayaks at the ticket counter. For personally-owned kayaks or canoes, there is a launch on the main road over the bridge.
	Concessions The food counter and snack bar has breakfast and lunch items prepared for purchase. There is a well-stocked gift shop with items from whimsical to tasteful for souvenirs. Snorkeling equipment and beach gear is also stocked, as well as last minute necessities one may have forgotten.
	Facilities Restroom facilities are located next to the Main Concession Building, Dive Shop and at Far Beach.
	Fishing Fishing is permitted in designated areas in accordance with Florida state law. Saltwater fishing licenses are required. Spearfishing, possession of spearfishing equipment, and collection of tropical fish [by any method] is prohibited inside the park. Do you need a Fishing License?
	Full Facility Camping The park campground offers 47 campsites for both tent and RV campers with water and electric: 30 amp, 50 amp, and 110 volt. Each site also has a picnic table and grill. There is a dump station for sewer needs. The Main Restroom has toilets and hot showers that meet ADA requirements. The Pond Restroom, next to the Group Campsite, has an ADA-accessible private family bathroom. There are three paved sites with paths paved to the ramp to the Main Restroom located in the center of the campground. Coin-operated washers and dryers are also located at the Main Restroom. Pets are allowed (see Pet Camping below). Reservations are recommended three to eleven (winter season) months in advance. Campers must register at the park entrance.
	Group Camping The group camping area is available for organized groups of all ages, and requires at least one adult chaperone per ten youths. Chaperones must be at least 21 years of age. The group camping area will accommodate up to 24 people. The site has a fire circle, benches, a large grill and picnic tables. There is no electricity at the site. Restrooms and hot showers are available. Reservations for the group camp may be made by organized youth groups no earlier than 60 days in advance and by adult groups no earlier than 30 days in advance by calling the park at (305) 451-1202. A group representative must check in before 5:00 p.m. on the day of arrival. All park rules and regulations apply to this camping area.
	Nature Trails The park maintains three nature trails in two uniquely different environments. The Mangrove Trail is a loop trail on a boardwalk that allows visitors to peacefully view the mangroves and estuaries they thrive in. An observation tower also allows a larger view of this very important ecosystem. Another loop trail, the Wild Tamarind Trail, winds through the park’s beautiful tropical hardwood hammock, allowing visitors to view many of the area’s native hardwood species. The Grove Trail also winds through the hardwood hammock, but terminates at the Grove. This cultural resource has been replanted with tropical fruit trees, as originally planted by early pioneers in Key Largo. One must return back to one’s start at the Visitor Center parking lot. If arrangements are made in advance, a Ranger-led nature walk on one of these trails for organized groups may be possible.
	Pet Camping Pets must be confined, leashed (not to exceed six feet in length) or otherwise under the physical control of a person at all times. Tethered pets must not be left unattended for more than 30 minutes. Quiet hours must be observed from 11:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Florida law requires that pets be vaccinated against rabies. Any pet that is noisy, dangerous, intimidating or destructive will not be allowed to remain in the park. Non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish must be confined or under the physical control of the owner. Some animals may be prohibited on park property. Failure to abide by these rules may result in the camper being asked to board the pet outside the park or to leave the campground.
	Picnicking Designated areas for picnicking are located throughout the park. Barbecue grills are provided, no ground fires are permitted. The park has 12 pavilions for use on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations for the pavilions are accepted. The 11 small pavilions, with two picnic tables each, rent for $30.00 per day, plus tax. The large pavilion has eight tables and rents for $50.00 per day, plus tax. None of the pavilions are equipped with electric or water. ADA-accessible picnic facilities are available within the park. Users of the pavilion must keep the area free of litter.
	Playground Young children may enjoy the park playground which is located on the main road, just before Far Beach. The playground has swings, a slide and a climbing tower.
	RV Camping See under Full Facility Camping
	Scuba Diving To fully enjoy the diving possibilities of the park, boat trips to the reef are recommended. A new diver, or a diver that needs a refresher, will find the waters off Cannon Beach a great place to hone his or her skills.
	Showers Public, outdoor, cold-water showers are provided.
	Snorkeling In addition to the park's snorkeling tours, there are areas in the park designated for snorkeling. These areas are in a tropical lagoon and offer a look at the various sea grass communities in the park. In these areas there are some natural ledges that do hold some interesting marine life. There are also some artifacts from an early Spanish shipwreck approximately 100 feet offshore.
	Swimming Swimming is a popular activity at both Cannon Beach and Far Beach. The swimming areas are located in a tropical lagoon that provides a good place for younger swimmers to enjoy the water.
	Visitor Center The highlight of the park’s Visitor Center is its 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. Park staff conducts a fish feeding daily at 11:00 a.m. for visitors to observe. There are also six additional 100 to 200-gallon aquariums which offer visitors different looks at the park’s marine inhabitants. The Visitor Center also features natural history exhibits which interpret the park’s different biological communities. There is also a theater located in the building where visitors may view nature videos relating to the park and its surrounding area. Large-print formats of park information and brochures are available. Assisted-listening devices are available upon request for the auditorium presentations. The hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Free with park admission.
	Wildlife Viewing Wildlife viewing is possible in all areas of the park, especially at the beaches, canoe trails, or nature trails.
	Youth Camping See under Group Camping

Special Events for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

• There are no events listed at this time. Please call our park for more details on possible future events.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Ranger Programs

• BOAT TOURS
  Daily, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM
  Fee. Enjoy a tour of the reef on the air-conditioned, glass-bottom boat "Spirit of Pennekamp" or get wet with a snorkeling tour. Tours depart three times a day, weather permitting. For reservations and information, call (305) 451-6300.
  
  Call (305) 451-6300 for more details.
• RANGER-LED INTERPETIVE PROGRAM
  Year-round
  Throughout the year, programs are offered to park visitors on a wide range of natural and cultural history subjects. Guided nature walks along the park's Mangrove and Wild Tamarind trails are offered as possible upon request by organized groups. Nature videos may be viewed in the Visitor Center theater. Call Park Services Specialist Elena Muratori at (305) 451-1202 to arrange for a program or walk.
  
  For information on glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling tours, sailing/snorkeling tours, SCUBA lessons and tours, and canoe, kayak, and motorboat rentals, please contact the park concession at (305) 451-1621 or visit their website at: http://www.pennekamppark.com.
  
  Participation Requirements
  
  Call 305-451-1202 for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions about John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Question: How far is the park from Key West?
Answer: The park is 102.5 miles from Key West. From the park to Key West, it is about a 2.5-hour drive south on U.S. Highway 1.

Question: Are there restaurants and stores close by?
Answer: Yes, as a tourist destination there are many good places to eat within a few miles of the park. Key Largo, like other small towns, has a couple of grocery and drug stores and one department store. There are, of course, many gift, souvenir and specialty shops.

Question: Do I have to pay an entry fee each time I leave and return to the park?
Answer: Re-entry to the park is good for the day with the current day’s receipt, unless parking becomes unavailable and the park will temporarily close. When the park reopens, that day’s receipt holders will be readmitted.

Question: Are park facilities accessible?
Answer: Buildings, picnic areas, boat tours and Far Beach are wheelchair accessible and we are working to improve access to services and facilities. Should you need assistance to enable your participation, please call the Ranger Station at (305) 451-1202.

Question: Do I have to take a boat to see the coral reef?
Answer: The coral reefs are 3-7 miles offshore. There are daily glass-bottom boat tours and snorkel trips offered through a private concession located in the park.

Question: Can I see the 'Christ of the Abyss' statue?
Answer: The 'Christ of the Abyss' statue is located in 15-20 feet of water at Key Largo Dry Rocks, about 5 miles offshore. It is too shallow for the glass-bottom boat, but the snorkel tours may go there if weather permits.

Question: Can I snorkel off the beach?
Answer: Cannon Beach is a popular snorkeling spot where cannons and an anchor, artifacts from a 1715 Spanish shipwreck, have been placed underwater. You may see a few colorful fish, but you must take a boat tour to see the coral reef. Looking carefully, you may see other marine life in the seagrass bed. If you venture past the marked swimming area, you must have a Diver-Down flag.

Question: What are the concession and Visitor Center hours?
Answer: Both are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with food service ending at 4:00 p.m.

Question: Does the park allow after-hours use?
Answer: The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset. Only registered campers may utilize the park after sunset.

Question: What is the Monroe County surcharge?
Answer: As per Florida Statute 380.0685, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection shall impose and collect a surcharge of 50 cents per person per day, or $5 per Annual Family Entrance Permit, on admission to all State Parks in areas of critical state concern located in a county which creates a land authority pursuant to S.380.0663 (1)…Such funds shall be used to purchase property in the area or areas of critical state concern in the county from which the revenue was generated.

Question: Are pets allowed in the campground?
Answer: Yes, but they must be well-behaved and adhere to pet camping rules. (See Pet Camping under Activities)

Question: What size motor homes can be accommodated in the campground?
Answer: The campground has a limited number of sites that can handle a motor home up to 40 feet; reservations are recommended.

Question: Are reservations required for camping?
Answer: Reservations are highly recommended. We book eleven months in advance, and the time from late December to early April usually sells out eleven months to the day! Only a few sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Question: Are there discounts for camping?
Answer: Florida residents 65 years and older, or Florida residents that are 100% disabled, receive 50% off the base rate camping fee.

Question: Are there accessible sites?
Answer: Yes, sites 38, 39 and 40 are ADA compliant.

Question: If we are camping, is it possible to get out of the park when it closes for the day?
Answer: Yes, campers are provided with a simple means of entering and exiting the park at night.

Question: Is the campground on the water?
Answer: No, the campground is located in a wooded area within walking distance of the beach on Largo Sound. There is a small creek behind sites 1-22.

Question: Do the bathrooms in the campground have hot water?
Answer: Yes, the campground restrooms have hot water, showers and electricity.

Question: What is provided with each campsite?
Answer: Each campsite has water, electricity, a grill and a picnic table. Campers must supply their own charcoal or wood for burning in the grill. Foraging for wood is not allowed.

Question: Do the campsites have sewer hookups?
Answer: We do have a dump station located just outside the campground entrance. Campsites do not have sewer hookups. Transportable waste containers must be of the type specifically sold for that purpose. They may be used for 'gray water,' not 'black water,' and cannot be towed behind a vehicle. Proper hoses must be used when emptying the container or the RV holding tank.

Question: Are there laundry facilities for the campers?
Answer: There are two washing machines and two dryers located in the main restroom building in the center of the campground.

Question: Is there WiFi in the campground?
Answer: WiFi is available near the Dive Shop and the Main Concession Building.

Question: Is there a place to park my boat when I am camping in the park
Answer: There is an overflow parking area opposite the campground entrance where you may park your boat trailer. See the dock master in person only for limited camper dockage available on a first-come, first-served, basis. Boat slips or mooring balls may be rented for overnight stay by calling the dock master at (305) 451-1202.

Question: When is check-out time?
Answer: You must vacate your site on the last day of your camping visit at 1:00 p.m., but you may park your trailer or RV in the parking lot opposite the Dive Shop and remain in the park until sunset that day.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park History

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Volunteer Information

The Campground Host/Volunteer Program at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park relies upon individuals to help us accomplish our mission of preserving and protecting the natural resources of Florida and providing outstanding guest services to park visitors.

Our volunteer program has opportunities for both local residents (seasonal and year-round) and overnight campers. From assisting in the field and working in the shop, to helping with interpretive materials and guiding nature walks; from toll collecting to boat patrolling; there is some way every person can help us in our mission. Some duties we prefer that you reside locally, while others are possible when the individual is only here for a short time. We ask that you fill out the application form online, or call us if you need a paper copy sent to you. If you are interested in staying on a site, please note the procedures below. We have some job descriptions listed here; if you have a particular skill to offer, please contact us to see if we might be able to use your services as well.

All of our staff (paid employees and volunteers) plays a vital role in achieving our mission of providing a quality resource-based recreational experience for our visitors. Volunteering in Florida State Parks provides the community with an opportunity to give something to the park while providing a much-needed work force to enhance the overall operation of the park. We need your help to make John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park the best it can be!

Please contact our volunteer coordinator, Park Services Specialist Elena Muratori, at elena.muratori@dep.state.fl.us, call 305-451-1202, or write her at the park address.

REQUEST FOR VOLUNTEER CAMPSITE

Since our park has such a great demand for volunteer campsites, we ask that you follow these procedures when making your requests.

1. Requests will be accepted not more than fifteen months in advance and should be made in writing each year.
2. Assignments will be made no earlier than twelve months in advance.
3. Previous performance at JPCRSP will be considered, but does not guarantee placement.
4. Every person is expected to work 20 hours per week.
5. A site may be designated originally; however, this is subject to change due to schedule changes and park needs.
6. The Park Manager reserves the right to terminate volunteer status in the park, if necessary.

Please address your requests in writing to:

Elena Muratori, Park Services Specialist
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
P.O. Box 487
Key Largo, FL 33037
Or, e-mail at Elena.Muratori@dep.state.fl.us

Visit the Main Volunteer page for information on volunteering in Florida State Parks

Visit the Main Volunteer page at http://www.floridastateparks.org/volunteers/default.cfm for more detailed Information

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

P.O. Box 487
Key Largo, Florida 33037
Phone: 305-451-1202
Fax: Contact Park for Number

Visitor Service Provider

Daryl Obenour, General Manager
Coral Reef Park Company, Inc.
P.O. Box 1560
Key Largo, FL 33036
(305) 451-6300 Fax # (305) 451-1427
Coral Reef Park Company