On the way to Miami, FL we decided not to miss a chance of getting two more Junior Ranger Badges for Nicholas. (We got the first one couple of years ago in Zion National park and ever since it has been a great way to learn about the history and nature of the United States).
Before you go to Everglades with kids you should know that visiting Florida’s Everglades presents a few challenges… Since Everglades National Park was the first national park established to preserve biological diversity and resources, not for scenic views the drive has little variety or dramatic scenery.
The solution is simple, stop at each and every one of the wonderful trails and visitors’ centers along the way and enjoy the trip.
Everglades National Park was established December 6, 1947 and it covers 1,542,526 acres. There are three places in the park to get your Junior Ranger badge (Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, and Everglades National Park) and if you visit all three of them you can get a special Junior Ranger patch.
Since we were on the mission to get to Miami and back the same day we could not spend too much time in the National Park. But we are definitely going to be back for an airboat ride and to walk a trail or two.
Even though we did not spent more than an hour in the Everglades Park we were lucky enough to spot a couple of alligators enjoying a sunny afternoon.
We visited Everglades in mid April, the temperature was ideal and we did not need mosquito repellent. But you should keep in mind that from May to October, insects may make visits unbearable, especially for kids.
The wet season begins in June; summers are hot and humid, with many afternoon thunderstorms – and mosquitoes. Best time to visit is from November to March. We were told that wildlife viewing is best in winter too.
