The Dagny Johnson Botanical State Park is situated in Key Largo, where High way 1 (mile marker 106)meets c. r. 905.
The park has been justly named after Dagny Johnson who died as recently as 2003. He it was who fought long and hard against the planned development of this area and he chaired many committees to battle against the possible travesty by developing this area . This fight took from the 170s to the 1990s so he lived long enough to see the results of his unflagging efforts.
This park has tropical forestation(more of that later)coral reefs and a butterfly garden and has been rescued from being the site of blocks of flats.
Now here comes the State Park superlatives; not only does it have one of the most extensive West Indian Hardwood Hammocks in America but it also has the biggest remaining Rockland Hammocks in the world.
From October to March there are guided walks which take place on thursday and sunday at 10 am. The ranger will escort you round and tell you all about the park and answer your questions. Meet at the park entrance and it is well worth trying to go on one of these days.
There are good walking trails here; over 6 miles to explore and enjoy and most are wheelchair friendly. If you can not come on a tour day then pick up a self guide tour at the ranger station and stop to read the signs along the way.
Here you can spot over 80 different plants and animals; all of which are protected. Wild Cotton. and Americam Crocodiles might be in your sights, so take a camera and some binoculars.
To see migrating birds, visit in October and April. You will see many tropical varieties including black whiskered vireo and unusual cuckoos. And this takes us back to the tropical forestation The migrating birds eat the fruit of the trees in the West Indies and donate the seeds in their droppings when they reach this park.
The butterly area of this park is stunning and look out fo skippers and swallowtails among many others. Here you will see some unusual snails that live off the lichen and bark of the trees.
There is a pic nic area here so do take your sandwiches and LOTS to drink.
This park is open from 8am to sun down every day of the year and costs just $1. 50 per person. In the warmer months do pack sun screen, insect repellant and a sun hat.
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
P. O. Box 487
Key Largo, Florida 33037
Phone: 305-451-1202