Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located on the northern tip of Key Largo, Florida, Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park preserves approximately 2,400 acres of tropical hardwood hammock, a rare and biologically important ecosystem that once covered large areas of South Florida. The park is named after environmentalist Dagny Johnson, who played a crucial role in conserving this land from development. The hammock is home to diverse plant species, including rare trees like the West Indian mahogany and gumbo limbo, as well as endangered wildlife such as the Key Largo cotton mouse and the Key Largo woodrat. Visitors can explore various nature trails that wind through dense forests, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and photography. The park’s geography includes elevated hardwood forest, freshwater wetlands, and mangrove fringes, contributing to a rich biodiversity unique to the lower Florida Keys. Recreationally, the park features several interpretive trails with boardwalk sections, providing accessible ways to experience its ecosystems. Nearby landmarks include the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, enhancing the visit with opportunities for aquatic activities. The park’s quiet environment and educational signage make it a favored destination for nature lovers, researchers, and families interested in Florida’s natural heritage.
