Key West National Wildlife Refuge.Wilderness Area

Key West National Wildlife Refuge Wilderness Area protects 2,644 acres of federally designated Wilderness in the Florida Keys. This remote backcountry is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and remains open only to non-motorized, primitive travel — no roads, motors, or mechanized equipment are permitted. Visitors seeking solitude and undeveloped natural character can explore by foot or paddle, though access is limited and conditions are challenging. The area operates under strict Wilderness rules: pack out all waste, travel lightly on the land, and respect the refuge's primary purpose of wildlife conservation. Access typically requires a boat to reach the refuge, and weather and water conditions can be severe. Plan ahead, bring proper gear, and understand that this is true backcountry with minimal infrastructure or services.