The Spanish named this island "Cayo Vivora" or Rattlesnake Key because its shape resembles a snake with its jaws open. In the early 20th century, Long Key was the site of a luxurious fishing resort that was destroyed during the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935. Today, visitors can explore this island by canoeing through a chain of lagoons or hiking two land-based trails. The Golden Orb Trail leads visitors through five natural communities to an observation tower that provides a panoramic view of the island and its profusion of plant and animal life. Some of the best bonefishing in the Keys is found here. Full-facility campsites overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Located at Mile Marker 67.5, 67400 Overseas Highway.

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

HISTORY OF THE AREA
Long before the park was established, the subtropical climate, clear waters and abundance of marine life attracted explorers. The Calusa Indians lived off the plant and marine life before the arrival of the first Spanish settlers. After Spanish occupation, other travelers from nearby islands such as the Bahamas made their way to Long Key.

By 1912, the Florida Keys were no longer considered a remote area to travel. By this time, the Key West Extension of the Florida East Coast Railroad was completed, allowing Long Key to become an important depot. Henry Flagler, the founder of the railroad, also established the Long Key Fishing Club which was a Mecca for the world?s greatest saltwater fishermen. This productive era came to a temporary end when a hurricane destroyed the railroad and fishing club in 1935.

CAMPING
There are 60 full-facility campsites in the park, all overlooking the Atlantic ocean! Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, ground grill, water, and electricity. Three restrooms with hot showers, are centrally located. Also provided, is a dump station for gray and black water. Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance. The sites book quickly so make your plans well in advance.


CANOEING
One of three nature trails in the park, the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely "paddle" through the park?s shallow water lagoon. Canoe rentals and a self-guided brochure are available for this hour-long journey.

BOATING
Canoeing & Kayaking

One of three nature trails in the park, the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely "paddle" through the park?s shallow water lagoon. Canoe rentals and a self-guided brochure are available for this hour-long journey.

FISHING
Some of the best sport fishing in the Florida Keys are popular year-round. Saltwater fishing licenses are required in Florida.

PICNICKING
Picnic areas are available with a scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean.

TRAILS
In addition to the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail, the park offers two land-based nature trails for visitors to explore. The "Golden Orb Trail," named after a native spider, is a leisurely 40-minute walk through several plant communities. The "Layton Trail" is located on the bay side of the park and takes 15 minutes to walk.

NATURE PROGRAMS
A two-hour guided walk along the "Golden Orb Trail" is offered every Wednesday at 10:00am. Every Thursday, the park offers a Ranger's Choice program at 10:00am. These programs may consist of guided-walks, birding, photography, Florida's Native Americans, canoeing, and Florida's unique wildlife. Programs are subject to Ranger availability and weather conditions. Please check at the Ranger Station.

PETS
Pets are not allowed on beaches, along the natural shoreline, in picnic shelters, or in the bathhouses. In the areas where pets are allowed they must be on a six-foot hand held leash and be well behaved at all times.

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.

DIRECTIONS
Long Key State Park is located at Mile Marker 67.5, 67400 Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys.