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Big Cypress National Preserve

Big Cypress National Preserve, situated in southern Florida, nearly 45 miles (70 km) west of the city of Miami, encompasses a total area of 720,000 acres (2900 sq. km.). Established on October 11, 1974, Big Cypress was the first national preserve in the US National Park System. It borders the Everglades National Park to the south and the cypress country to the west. The water from the Big Cypress National preserve flows into the coastal Ten Thousands Islands region of Everglades National Park. The National Preserve also protects the Big Cypress Swamp, which supports the rich marine estuaries on the south west coast of Florida.

The Big Cypress National Preserve is largely dominated by a wet cypress forest. However, it is also home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including orchids, mangroves, the Florida Panther, alligators, poisonous snakes like Eastern diamondback rattlesnake and cottonmouth, and a variety of bird species. The nine endangered species found in the Preserve, including the eastern indigo snake, the West Indian manatee, and the Florida sand-hill crane, have been federally listed. The main recreational activities in the Preserve include camping and hiking. The main campgrounds in this region include the Bear Island Campground, the Burns Lake Campground, Monument lake Campground, Midway Campground, Pine-crest Campground, and the Mitchell’s Landing Campground.

Great hiking opportunities are available at the southern terminus of the Florida National Scenic Trail, particularly during the winter months. The two popular scenic trails within the Big Cypress National Preserve is the 17 mile (27 km) Turner River/Wagon-wheel/ Birdon Roads Loop, which takes the visitors past open prairies and wading bird-feeding areas; and the 27 mile (43 km) long Loop Road, which meanders through deep strands, pine forests, and the dwarf cypress forest. Another well frequented scenic drive in the Preserve is the Tamiami Trail (US 41). In addition, there are also a number of other privately owned trails in the preserves.

Big Cypress National Preserve, situated between Miami and Naples, is traversed by the Alligator Alley (Interstate 75) and the US Highway 41, and is thus, easily accessible to the public. The Oasis Visitor Center is located mid-way along the Tamiami Trail, while the Preserve Headquarters is situated near Naples and Everglades. Big Cypress National Reserve offers a serene retreat from the busy city life and is a great holiday destination for people of all ages.

• Telephone: (239) 695-1201
• Hours: Oasis Visitor Center: 9 AM - 4:30 PM daily
  Preserve Headquarters: 8 AM - 4:30 PM daily

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