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Watson's Place Wilderness Campground — Everglades National Park

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Water access defines the experience at Watson's Place Wilderness Campground, where campers reach this island site exclusively by boat through Everglades National Park's backcountry waterways. The National Park Service manages this remote destination, which requires advance permits and involves navigating rough access conditions to reach the former homestead location.

A wooden dock facilitates landing for both paddle craft and motorized boats, with space to pull kayaks and canoes onto shore. The camping area consists of a small flat clearing suitable for tents, though the surrounding island terrain remains largely overgrown. A historic cistern collects fresh water on-site, adding to the location's intriguing past as Edgar Watson's early 1900s sugarcane farm. Campers seeking additional backcountry options can explore campgrounds near Everglades National Park.

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Watson's Place Wilderness Campground — Everglades National Park is located in Florida

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Coordinates

25.70963721 N
81.244898 W

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    Verizon
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    No Coverage

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2 Reviews

Richard S.
Reviewed Oct. 12, 2022

Watson Place in Ten Thousand Islands

I just want to make a correction to information on this page.   It was stated that Watson was killed at this campground (previously The Watson Place (Watson's house) and his sugarcane farm).   Edgar Watson was killed in 1910 on Chokoloskee Island in a confrontation with local residents.  The confrontation was about bodies of some of Watson's farm workers that had been found in the creek at/near The Watson Place.  It was believed that Watson killed these farm workers rather than pay them their wages.  Law enforcement never arrested anyone for killing Edgar Watson and never determined whether Watson killed the farm workers.  Watson is alleged to have killed multiple people during his lifetime.

SiteWatson Place
Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2017

Know before you go!

This is a fantastic spot to spend a night or two, but before you spend any time here learn a bit about the history of this place. It's a little mysterious and a tad creepy, but it certainly makes staying here more interesting especially if you have an active imagination.

The site itself has a wooden dock that makes it easy to access the island. I always canoe or kayak to this destination and pull my boats on shore, but if you're in a motorized boat there is space to dock. There is a weird cistern that collects fresh water and some say you can find an alligator residing here though I have never seen one in all my trips here.

There is a small flat clearing area where you can pitch your tents. The island is certainly a bit larger but rather overgrown. It can be a popular destination so secure your permit as soon as you can.

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  • Review photo of Watson's Place Wilderness Campground — Everglades National Park by Sarah C., July 8, 2017
  • Review photo of Watson's Place Wilderness Campground — Everglades National Park by Sarah C., July 8, 2017
  • Review photo of Watson's Place Wilderness Campground — Everglades National Park by Sarah C., July 8, 2017
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the historic Edgar Watson house located near Watson Campground?

Watson's Place Wilderness Campground actually sits on the historic site where Edgar Watson's house and sugarcane farm once stood. This is why it's called Watson's Place. While the original Watson house is no longer standing, you're camping at the exact location where this notorious historical figure lived. Edgar Watson himself wasn't killed at this site as sometimes misreported - his death occurred in 1910 during a confrontation with locals on Chokoloskee Island. The site's rich and somewhat mysterious history adds an intriguing dimension to camping here, especially for history enthusiasts.

What amenities are available at Watson's Place campground?

Watson's Place is a primitive wilderness campground with minimal amenities. The site offers a wooden platform for camping, which helps keep you elevated from the ground. There are no toilets, running water, electricity, or other facilities available. You must pack in all supplies you'll need and pack out all trash when you leave. This is a true backcountry experience requiring complete self-sufficiency. The site's appeal lies in its isolation, historical significance, and immersion in the natural environment of the Everglades rather than its amenities.

How do I get to Watson Campground in the Everglades?

Watson's Place Wilderness Campground is accessible only by water, making it a true wilderness camping experience in the Everglades. You'll need to travel by boat through the waterways of Everglades National Park to reach this remote location. The campground is situated along one of the paddling trails in the park. Before departing, check with Everglades National Park visitor center for current conditions, maps, and permits required for backcountry camping. Plan your trip carefully as this is an isolated site with no quick exit options.

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