John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Out of this world beauty
You've never been to a state park like this. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, in the Florida Keys, seems like another world entirely.
When you think of state parks, you might typically think of forests, hiking trails, green space and maybe even a lake, if you're lucky. But while the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park does have picnic and camping space, it does not resemble any other park you've ever seen - considering it's made up of mangroves, beach and ocean for the most part.
That's right, the coral reef state park is just as its name implies, centered around the amazing coral reef in the crystal clear South Florida waters off Key Largo.
The park, established in 1963, was named for the late newspaper editor in Miami who worked tirelessly to preserve what is now the Everglades National Park. Including its sister entity, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary that stretches to Key West, the park is 178 square nautical miles containing the only coral reef in the continental United States.
Visitors to the park can expect mouthwash-colored waters that are hard to resist. Full-facility RV and tent camping, mangrove exploring, designated fishing areas, swim and snorkel beaches (don't forget to check out the early Spanish shipwreck only 100 feet offshore) make for hours, if not days, of fun.
For those who don't have access to a boat or would just like some extra guidance to see and do all that can be seen and done at John Pennekamp, the park offers snorkel tours, scuba tours, glassbottom boat excursions and rental boats.
The snorkel tours ($29.95 per adult, $5 equipment purchase) consist of two hours gliding over shallow-water coral reefs. Scuba tours in deeper water vary in price dependent upon skill level. Beginners can get fully certified for $485 or take a one day course for $175. Certified divers can see the reef for only $60 plus equipment rental. The "Spirit of Pennekamp" glassbottom boat carries up to 130 passengers over the beautifully blue-green waters of the park ($24 per adult). You'll be able to see the reefs and marine life up close and personal without ever touching the water. Rent a canoe, kayak or paddle boat to float through the winding mangroves on your own.
HelloKeyWest Tip: Stop by the visitors center to see the 30,000-gallon saltwater tank and other natural history exhibits. Visitors will also enjoy hearing about reef animals and conservation efforts from expert park staff.
Posted by Christine Foster
