BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE

By  Mike Miller May 29, 2025

Big Cypress National Preserve is a 729,000-acre swamp in Ochopee, Florida. It borders Everglades National Park. The preserve protects cypress forests, prairies, and wetlands.

Visitors can hike, kayak, camp, and view wildlife. Home to alligators and the endangered Florida panther, it offers a glimpse into South Florida’s ecosystem. Admission is free. 

Florida Panthers captured on the trail cameras
at Big Cypress National Preserve.

Humans lived here over 2,000 years ago. The Calusa people thrived before European contact. By the 19th century, Seminoles occupied the area.

European settlers hunted herons and alligators in the 1800s. Timber companies logged cypress trees in the early 1900s. In 1943, Humble Oil found Florida’s first oil well here.

In the 1960s, plans for a massive jetport sparked opposition. Native Americans, hunters, and conservationists halted construction in 1970.

Big Cypress became the first national preserve in 1974, balancing conservation and recreation. 

Big Cypress National Preserve is at 33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141. From I-75, take exit 80, follow SR-29 south, and turn left onto US-41.

The Oasis Visitor Center and Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center are open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, except Christmas. Call (239) 695-2000 for information.

The Loop Road, a 24.5-mile scenic drive, offers wildlife views. Kayaking is popular on Turner River and Halfway Creek; rent through local outfitters like Everglades Adventure Tours at (800) 504-6554.

Hiking trails like the Florida National Scenic Trail require backcountry permits, available at trailheads. Check trail conditions at visitor centers.

Winter visits (November to March) avoid bugs and high water. Bring water, snacks, and bug spray. 

• The preserve is larger than the state of Rhode Island, covering 729,000 acres.  

• Dwarf pond cypress trees dominate one-third of the swamp.  

• The Florida panther, with fewer than 200 left, roams here.  

• A 1928 passenger plane on the Oasis Visitor Center’s roof was added in the 1980s.  

• The Turner River Canoe Trail has mangrove tunnels requiring ducking your head low as you pass through.  

• Hunters helped establish the preserve to protect their traditions.  

• The Tree Snail Hammock Trail has colorful liguus tree snails after rain. 

BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE WEBSITE