An Unexpected Place

Nike Missile Base Historic Area in Everglades National Park, Florida

When Kathy & I were looking over information about the Everglades, we had noticed several references to a Nike Missile base located within the park.  There wasn’t a lot information online, but once we got there we saw signs  directing us toward the location and indicating that there were “open house” hours daily.  So we decided to check it out.

Nike Missile Base Historic Area in Everglades National Park, Florida
Nike Missile Base Historic Area in Everglades National Park, Florida
Nike Missile Base Historic Area in Everglades National Park, Florida

As it turns out, there had been three Nike sites located within the Everglades as a result of the Cuban Missile Crisis and the close-the-barn-door approach that was taken after the fact.  There are several abandoned bunkers that are inaccessible due to asbestos contamination, an unused hanger and one that houses an actual but de-fused Nike missile.

Nike Missile Base Historic Area in Everglades National Park, Florida
Nike Missile Base Historic Area in Everglades National Park, Florida

It was an interesting side trip on an otherwise nature-oriented visit, but it was something unexpected in an otherwise natural habitat.

“Don’t worry, those signs aren’t enforced on Mondays.” We were there on a Monday. Whew!

4 thoughts on “An Unexpected Place”

  1. Love those pictures. Glad you were there on Monday..lol. thanks for sharing this top secret location. Mums the word !

  2. Well, it’s not Area 51 (unless you did see aliens and you were sworn to secrecy. Reply with two winking emojis if this is the case) but I’m glad you stumbled across this site and shared your photos of it. A fascinating look into an era I know so little about.

    1. There were a lot of funny looking people around (including that dorky-looking guy in the weird pants) but I’m pretty sure they were all from this planet. 😉

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