Discover
The Everglades
America's Everglades
The Everglades is a vast subtropical wilderness covering the southern tip of Florida — a unique mosaic of sawgrass prairies, mangrove forests, cypress swamps, and coastal estuaries. It is the only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance, the Everglades is one of the most ecologically significant places on the planet.
Everglades City serves as the western gateway to Everglades National Park and the Ten Thousand Islands — a network of over 10,000 mangrove islands stretching along the Gulf Coast. River Wilderness places you at the heart of this extraordinary ecosystem.
Wildlife You May Encounter
American Alligator
The iconic symbol of the Everglades. Commonly spotted sunning on banks and swimming in waterways near the cabins.
Roseate Spoonbill
A stunning pink wading bird found in shallow waters. One of the most photographed birds in the Everglades.
West Indian Manatee
Gentle giants that frequent the warm waters around Everglades City, especially in cooler months.
Bottlenose Dolphin
Playful dolphins are frequently spotted in the Ten Thousand Islands and coastal waters.
Osprey & Bald Eagle
Both species nest and hunt throughout the area. Bald eagles are a thrilling sight for visitors.
Florida Panther
The rarest large cat in North America. While rarely seen, the Everglades is one of the last strongholds.
Sea Turtle
Loggerhead and green sea turtles nest on nearby Gulf beaches and are sometimes spotted offshore.
Snowy Egret & Great Blue Heron
Abundant wading birds found throughout the mangroves and shallow flats.
Nearby Parks & Preserves
Everglades National Park
5 milesThe largest subtropical wilderness in the US and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hiking, paddling, and ranger programs.
Big Cypress National Preserve
15 miles1.3 million acres of cypress swamps, prairies, and mangroves. Off-road vehicle trails and primitive camping.
Ten Thousand Islands NWR
AdjacentA labyrinth of mangrove islands and waterways — a boater's and kayaker's paradise.
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve
20 milesKnown as the 'Amazon of North America.' Home to the largest stand of native royal palms and rare orchids.
Collier-Seminole State Park
20 milesCamping, hiking, and boating in a beautiful subtropical setting. Boat tours available.
Florida Panther NWR
30 milesCritical habitat for the endangered Florida panther. Wildlife viewing and hiking trails.
Getting Here
Our Address
River Wilderness Waterfront Cabins
210 Collier Avenue
Everglades City, FL 34139
Driving Directions
From Naples / I-75:
Take US-41 (Tamiami Trail) East to SR-29 South. Follow SR-29 into Everglades City. Turn right on Collier Avenue.
From Miami / Homestead:
Take US-41 (Tamiami Trail) West across the Everglades to SR-29 South. Follow SR-29 into Everglades City.
Approximate Distances:
Naples: 35 miles | Miami: 85 miles | Fort Myers: 65 miles | Orlando: 200 miles