Everglades in May: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

Shoulder · VisitWhen score 53/100 · #8 of 12 months

May is a solid shoulder-season month to visit Everglades National Park: crowds run 67% of the February peak (68,963 average visits), days average 89°F with 13.4 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Crowds in May

Everglades averages 68,963 recreation visits in May — 67% of what February, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging.

Weather & daylight

Days are warm (highs average 89°F), and nights stay mild (lows average 67°F). This is one of the wetter months (5.8″ of precipitation on average). Mid-month daylight runs 13.4 hours.

NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station ROYAL PALM RS, FL US (8 mi from park coordinates, 7 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of May.

What to pack for Everglades in May

Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.

• Sun protection and 2L+ water per person — highs average 89°F
• Rain shell + pack cover — 5.8″ of precipitation is normal this month
• Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month

Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Everglades are October and November.

Common questions

See also: the best national parks to visit in May · Last verified 2026-07-16