Big Cypress National Preserve (U.S. National Park Service)

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Freshwater to the Sea

The freshwaters of the Big Cypress Swamp, essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades, support the rich marine estuaries along Florida’s southwest coast. Protecting over 720,000 acres of this vast swamp, Big Cypress National Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to a diversity of wildlife, including the elusive Florida panther.

		Things To Do For the general visitor Big Cypress National Preserve provides a variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. This protected area is the back yard for the millions of residents and visitors in South Florida. more...

		Guided Activities Get out and explore! Join National Park Service Rangers on guided activities into the diverse communities of Big Cypress. See the wildlife, discover the tropics and explore the swamp. A variety of activities are conducted from December through April. Special request programs are available with advance arrangements. more...

		History and Culture Culturally, the Big Cypress Swamp has served as home and refuge to many people throughout time including the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, the Seminole Tribe of Florida and early settlers. more...

Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Use and Hunting

A long-established recreational activity in the area, hunters were instrumental in protecting this corner of remote, wild Florida. Hunting activities continue today and include seasons for archery, muzzle loading and general gun. Typical game species are white-tailed deer, turkey and hogs. Alligator hunting is not allowed within the preserve.

Nearly impossible to reach by foot, generations explored remote areas of the preserve by homemade airboats or swamp buggies. Today, people enjoy this traditional activity along an extensive trail system by obtaining permits for a variety of allowed vehicles.
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Write to

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, Florida 34141

E-mail Us

Phone

Oasis Visitor Center and General Preserve Information
(239) 695-1201

Administrative Offices
(239) 695-2000

Fax

(239) 695-3901

Climate

South Florida experiences two main seasons - the rainy season from May to October, and dry season from November through April. The rainy season coincides with the tropical hurricane season. This time of year can be hot, muggy and buggy. Daily rains typically occur in the afternoon. For the prepared it is a good time to see dramatic storms and beautiful flowering plants. The dry season has cool, dry days that tend to be breezy. An abundance of wildlife can be seen in many areas. An abundance of visitors are in the area as well.
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