Royal Palm Information Station and Bookstore

Anhinga crosses open marsh and water on a paved path and boardwalk. Alligators, turtles and wading birds are often seen close to the route, though wildlife sightings vary. Much of the walk is exposed, so bring water and sun protection. Gumbo Limbo goes under the shade of a tropical hardwood hammock, a welcome contrast to the open wetland. Both routes are wheelchair accessible, with paved path or boardwalk.

The station is a compact stop with information, maps, interpretive displays and a small gift shop. Restrooms, potable water and parking are here too, and wheelchairs are available. The shop has coffee, ice cream, snacks and vending, handy for a small bite but not a full meal.

The hammock was first noted by federal surveyor Jack Jackson in 1847. Scientists later drew attention to its unusual mix of tropical plants. Florida protected 960 acres here as Royal Palm State Park in 1916, after conservation advocates including May Mann Jennings and the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs campaigned to save the area. The state park helped build support for protecting the wider Everglades; the National Park Service took it over in 1947.

John F. Umphrey built Royal Palm Lodge in 1919 for the park caretaker, visiting scientists and guests. It also served meals. After the federal takeover, the lodge became park headquarters, housing and an early visitor center. A new visitor center opened here in 1952. The lodge was later moved to Homestead and destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Royal palms and live oaks rise above the surrounding wetland, sheltering ferns, orchids and other tropical plants. The slightly higher hammock ground and the slough around it helped protect that vegetation from fire. This small patch of forest is a sharp change from the open sawgrass and water just beyond it.