Located in the heart of the South Pacific, National Park of American Samoa offers an escape from the everyday and is one of our most remote parks. With a bit of explorer’s spirit, you can discover secluded villages, snorkel coral reefs, observe tropical forest plants and wildlife, and explore the magnificent island and sea vistas. Check out more public lands that are the perfect escape from the cold: http://on.doi.gov/1QFtX22

Need a break from the cold weather impacting much of the U.S.? All this week, we’ll be featuring some of America’s beautiful (and warm) public lands that’ll help take the chill off of winter. 

The first warm-weather destination: Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida. Located almost 70 miles west of Key West, the 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the Dry Tortugas is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs that are great for snorkeling and the vast assortment of bird life that frequent the area.

Top photo: Bush Key by Stan Ford (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Middle photo: Loggerhead lighthouse was constructed in 1858. Located in Loggerhead Key, the island is only accessible by private boat or charter. Photo by R.L. Chaplin.

Bottom photo: A view of Fort Jefferson and it’s moat by OWUSS NPS intern Julia.