The US Fish & Wildlife Service would like to offer a sincere thanks to all of our partners and concerned citizens who have offered support and assistance with recovery efforts after the devastating effects of hurricane Helene.
The Refuge is now open, though all structures in or near the lighthouse area and within the private property of the Pilots Compound remain off limits.
Significant damage and debris remains throughout the island so please exercise caution while visiting the refuge and obey all posted warnings.
Thus far, staff have worked to:
- open trails
- clean debris
- recover salvageable equipment
- mitigate electrical and hazardous materials concerns
- re-post regulatory signs and buoys protecting the critical bird nesting and wildlife protection areas
Recovery funding has been allocated by Congress and contracting efforts are underway for:
- large scale debris removal from refuge beaches
- clearing and restoration of interior trails
- replacement of the access dock and Service work facility
- necessary repairs to the historic Guardhouse
Given the amount of work to be done, all of these projects may take some time and we look forward to the island being completely restored to a pristine condition.
In the interim, please visit safely and remain cognizant of the importance of Egmont Key as critical habitat for Tampa Bay's wildlife.
For more information, see the Egmont Key Hurricane Fact Sheet
Activities
Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge and State Park is an island opened to the public but without visitor facilities. There are no existing restrooms due to the challenges associated with the island鈥檚 off-shore location. Trails are opened year-round. There are several beaches that are well marked and designated as year-round bird sanctuaries and are off-limits (closed) to any public entry. There is no drinking water available on the island, so please be sure to bring plenty of water. Other recommended items are: insect repellent, sunscreen, hat and closed shoes when hiking inland trails.
Trails
Palmetto Trail - constructed in 1905 from Copeland and Enlis brick, this one mile, level trail provides an inspiring hike near several historic buildings and widely dispersed cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto)
All trails are open from sunrise to sunset 365 days a year. One-hundred-year-old brick roads form the base of most of the trails. The trails are mostly flat and are relatively easy. Traveling on trails may expose visitors to intense sunlight, stinging insects, and increased humidity.
Rules and Policies
Rules and Policies
- Bird sanctuaries: Several beaches are closed to visitors year-round to support nesting colonial seabird habitat. Additionally, other bird or turtle nesting sites may be marked with stakes and flagging. These areas should also not be entered.
- Pets are not allowed on Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge. Service animals are approved.
- The collection, destruction or disturbance of plants, animals or refuge property is prohibited. (Deceased) Seashells are the only item that may be collected.
- Hunting, alcohol, fireworks, camping, open fires and glass containers and prohibited.
- Hours: Egmont Key is open from sunrise to sunset.
Locations
Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge and State Park is located only 1 1/2 miles off-shore from Fort de Soto State Park just outside of St. Petersburg.
Access to the refuge is by boat only. There are commercial groups that provide daily transport to Egmont Key NWR from Fort de Soto State Park and from other nearby areas. Egmont Key is open from sunrise to sunset.