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Everglades in December: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

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December is one of the best months of the year to visit Everglades National Park: crowds run 72% of the February peak (74,833 average visits), days average 80°F with 10.6 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Crowds in December

Everglades averages 74,833 recreation visits in December — 72% of what February, the peak month, draws. Plan lodging and entries with that in mind — book early and start days at dawn.

Average visits (December)
74,833 (mean 2021–2025, NPS)
Share of the year
8.5% of annual visitation
vs. peak (February)
72%

Weather & daylight

Expect warm days (highs average 80°F), and nights stay mild (lows average 59°F). It is typically dry (1.9″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 10.6 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 December.

What to pack for Everglades in December

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

Common questions

Is Everglades crowded in December?

Yes — December runs 72% of Everglades's peak, averaging 74,833 recreation visits (NPS, 2021–2025).

What is the weather like in Everglades in December?

Average highs of 80°F, lows of 59°F, 1.9″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, ROYAL PALM RS, FL US station).

What should I pack for Everglades in December?

Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.

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