John Pennecamp State Park advice

[jff]

I was reading the other recent thread about the Keys in a 22' and saw a few comments about John Pennecamp. We're planning a run from the Ft. Lauderdale area down to the keys and were planning to stop at Penncamp. We would be snorkeling, not diving. A few questions for those who have been there before:

- do we just pull in and begin snorkeling or do you have to register or somehow 'check in' anywhere?

- suggestions on specific areas to go to or avoid?

- is there a marina of some sort with food or fuel (or fuel dock)?

- do boater specific maps exist of the park or general area?

anything else we need to know?

Regards,
Jason

 

[Loneranger]

I certainly cannot answer all your questions, but I have been to Pennecamp Park. I went snorkeling but I used the boat that is run by the park service. I used my own gear. I am not sure if it was any cheaper than using a commercial service. All the boats ended up in roughly the same area. There are permanent moorings laid out in the park that are required to be used. We also snorkeled off the beach in some areas of the park, but it has also been at least 10 years since I went.

John

 

[Chris R]

Years ago I went but do not remember how we moored. The reef is fantastic and snorkeling is easy as the water is shallow enough that dive gear is a luxury and not a necessity.

 

[Dancin Dave]

Jason, A few miles offshore within the reef there are moorings you can tie up to, closer to shore just drop the hook and snorkel away. We did that about 2 weeks ago. Just mind the bouys surrounding protected areas. "No motorized vessels allowed" For instance these bouys surrounded "Rodriguez Key" a small island off of Key Largo I believe mile marker 89. You may approach the bouys, anchor or tie up to the mooring balls or piles and swim into the area. We had a blast.

The Pilot House marina in Key Largo has 2 restuarants and a fuel dock, mile marker 99. You might inquire there for transients.

The next northern inlet also has food, and fuel and is the nite scene and has all the commercial attractions and dive boats. Good luck have fun

 

[Nacho Boat]

Be careful where you drop an anchor in the Keys. Drop an anchor on a reef and you will be met with a big fine. In the Keys, there are a lot of mooring balls over most of the best snorkeling spots. The mooring balls really simplify the entire process.

If you are using your own boat, be sure to get a Diver Down Flag also. Pennecamp is a great spot! Have a great Trip!:smt001

 

[Nacho Boat]

I was reading the other recent thread about the Keys in a 22' and saw a few comments about John Pennecamp. We're planning a run from the Ft. Lauderdale area down to the keys and were planning to stop at Penncamp. We would be snorkeling, not diving. A few questions for those who have been there before:

- do we just pull in and begin snorkeling or do you have to register or somehow 'check in' anywhere? - Not if you are just boating in the "water" - The Camp really won't have any facilities you want or need.

- suggestions on specific areas to go to or avoid? - The snorkeling areas are well marked on any marine map. Get one...it really helps.

- is there a marina of some sort with food or fuel (or fuel dock)? - There a couple of Marinas right next to Pennecamp that should be able to accomodate your size.

- do boater specific maps exist of the park or general area? - Yes - Definately - I always buy the Fish HOT SPOTS - because it shows diving and snorkeling sites. There are a number of good snorkeling spots just a couple of miles from Pennecamp (Hens & Chickens??? is probably one of the best).

anything else we need to know? Be prepared for some great water - Weather is very important. A calm day will be much more enjoyed than a windy one (especially when moored for snorkeling). The visibility is usually much better on the calm days.

Regards,
Jason

Have Fun!