Curry Hammock State Park
🛶 Trusted Guide to the Florida Keys’ Hidden Wilderness – Updated 2025
A Mangrove Paradise Between Key Largo and Key West
Halfway through the Florida Keys near Marathon, Curry Hammock State Park protects over 1,000 acres of the largest uninhabited parcel of land between Key Largo and Big Pine Key. This is the Keys as they existed before development — pristine mangrove swamps, ancient rockland hammock forest, and turquoise ocean shoreline that reveals what these islands looked like for millennia. The park is renowned as one of the finest kayaking destinations in the Florida Keys, with mangrove tunnels, calm bay waters, and an oceanfront campground that puts you steps from the water.
Kayaking the Mangrove Tunnels
Curry Hammock’s most celebrated experience is paddling through natural mangrove tunnels — narrow, canopy-covered channels where prop roots arch overhead and juvenile fish dart below your boat. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the park, making it accessible even without your own gear. The calm bayside waters are perfect for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore the outer mangrove islands.
Oceanfront Camping & Beach
The park’s 28-site oceanfront campground is among the most coveted in the entire Florida State Park system:
- Sandy Beach: Small but beautiful — ideal for snorkeling, wading, and sunset watching
- Campground Beach: Steps from your tent or RV to the ocean
- Kiteboarding & Windsurfing: Consistent trade winds make this a premier spot
- Nature Trail (1.5 miles): Moderate loop through rockland hammock — watch for rare tree snails and migratory birds
Practical Tips
- From Marathon (5 miles): The park is at Mile Marker 56.2 on the Overseas Highway (US-1)
- Entry fee: $5 per vehicle (single occupant), $6 for 2-8 passengers
- Reserve camping months ahead — the 28 oceanfront sites book up extremely fast, especially December-April
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen — the Keys’ coral ecosystem is protected
- The park is a critical migratory bird stopover — September and October bring spectacular raptor migration
- No fresh water for kayaking — bring plenty of drinking water for paddling excursions
- Combine with Bahia Honda State Park (20 miles south) for the Keys’ finest beach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter a Florida state park?
Most Florida state parks charge $4 to $6 per vehicle (up to 8 occupants). An individual annual pass costs $60, and a family annual pass costs $120, covering unlimited visits to all state parks.
Can I swim with manatees at Florida state parks?
While you cannot swim with manatees (they are protected), several spring parks like Blue Spring State Park offer excellent viewing from boardwalks. Manatees gather in springs from November through March when river temperatures drop.
Are alligators dangerous in Florida state parks?
Alligators are present in virtually all freshwater bodies in Florida. They are generally not aggressive toward humans, but you should never approach, feed, or harass them. Keep children and pets at a safe distance from water edges.
What is the best time to visit Florida state parks?
Winter and spring (November through April) offer the best conditions: pleasant temperatures, low humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and peak manatee viewing. Summer brings extreme heat, humidity, and daily thunderstorms.
Explore More Florida State Parks
Curry Hammock State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
