All Off-Road Vehicle Trails will be temporarily closed for recreational access from Monday, June 3rd until Friday, August 2nd. Please click the link to view the official closure order.

2024 Off Road Vehicle Closure Order

Beginning 5/27 ORV renewals & new permits will be issued at the Nathanial P. Reed Visitor Center Friday-Monday, 9am-1:30pm. No permits will be issued Tuesday-Thursday. Permits will be issued first-come first-served. Visit our ORV page for more information

Off Road Vehicle Inspections UPDATE: 5/27/22

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. Conserving over 729,000 acres of this vast swamp, Big Cypress National Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to diverse wildlife, including the Endangered Florida panther.

A small alligator basking on top of dry vegetation.

Small Alligator

A water filled swamp filled with lush green ferns and trees.

Depths of the Swamp

The milky way dominating a starry night sky over palm trees.

Big Cypress Milky Way

two visitors in a canoe go through mangrove tunnels on the Turner River

Canoeing through mangrove tunnels

Florida Panther

palm trees emerge out of the fog in an orange sunrise

Sunrise in Big Cypress

A prairie foreground with tall pine trees in the background. A large blue sky with white cloud

Prairies and Pine Lands in Big Cypress

Alligators of Big Cypress

Big Cypress

The preserve is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year.  The Oasis Visitor Center and the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center are closed on December 25th. No fee is charged for access to the preserve.

Big Cypress National Preserve

Stargazing

Viewing the night sky in Big Cypress can be done throughout the year after sunset to sunrise. It is recommended to allow 30 minutes for vision to fully adapt and adjust to the dark sky. Once fully adapted, find a comfortable location such as a boardwalk, parking area, or grassy field where lighting is minimal. Bringing a lawn chair or blanket is recomended and telescopes or binoculars will also enhance the experience.

The milky way dominating a starry sky over palm trees.

In 2016, Big Cypress National Preserve was designated as an International Dark Sky Park. The preserve is far enough from of Miami and Naples so that the night sky is not impaired from light pollution from these metropolitan areas. Viewing the night sky in Big Cypress can be done throughout the year after sunset to sunrise. It is recommended to allow 30 minutes for vision to fully adapt and adjust to the dark sky. Once fully adapted, find a comfortable location such as a boardwalk, parking area, or grassy field where lighting is minimal. Bringing a lawn chair or blanket is recomended and telescopes or binoculars will also enhance the experience.

Pets are required to be kept on leash at all times.

Dark skies are essential natural, scientific, cultural, and economic resources. National Park sites, including Big Cypress National Preserve, are home to some of the last remaining dark skies in the country and are committed to protecting the night sky resource.

Stargazing in Big Cypress

Night Sky

Front-Country Hiking

This is a moderately strenuous hike across difficult terrain. At certain times of year, portions of the trail may be under 3 to 4 feet of water. Hikers should be in good health and experienced in wilderness hiking. 

To complete the entire section of the Florida National Scenic Trail within Big Cypress National Preserve takes several days. Day-hikers and visitors not looking to complete the entire section of trail, can turn it into an out and back hike. There is also a loop (marked with blue trailblazers) that can be completed. The loop is approximately 12 miles round trip. Completing the section of the trail within Gulf Islands National Seashore will take a minimum of several hours if not multiple days, but may also be turned into an out and back hike with several parking lots and other stops along the way. The only campground available within the seashore is located at Fort Pickens, about 1 mile into the hike.

A backpacker crosses over a bridge with poles in hand.

Florida Trail Backpacker

The southern terminus of the Florida National Scenic Trail is located in front of the Oasis Visitor Center. Hikers should walk down the grassy area immediately in front of the Visitor Center to the end of the fence line, turn right, and then continue straight down the fenceline. Hikers can also access the trail from Interstate 75. The northern terminus of the Florida National Scenic Trail is located to directly adjacent to Fort Pickens. Hikers should park in front of the fort and walk to the left past a grassy area, where a large wayside marks the trail origin.

The Florida National Scenic Trail stretches about 1,400 miles from Gulf Islands National Seashore to Big Cypress National Preserve. The southernmost section of the trail is within the National Preserve. The southern terminus of the trail begins at the Oasis Visitor Center and stretches northward for approximately 36 miles to the Preserve's northern border. The northernmost section of the trail is within Gulf Islands National Seashore. It begins at Fort Pickens and runs parallel to the coastline for 7 miles before exiting the park, then reentering in the Santa Rosa area of the National Seashore for another 7 miles. The trail passes through a variety of habitat types including beaches, hardwood hammocks, pinelands, prairies and cypress. Beyond the National Preserve boundary the trail is limited to a small number of hikers who are members of the Florida Trail Association per month traveling through the Seminole Reservation. There are several backcountry campsites located along the trail. Backcountry permits are required to camp at these sites. During the dry season (November-April), there may be very little to no water along the trail. Hikers need to pack in their own water. This trail is moderately strenuous. Footing can be difficult and during the rainy season, the trail can be heavily vegetated and overgrown. Portions of the trail can be under water at certain times of year. Water can be as deep as 3 to 4 feet. Several portions of the trail require hiking along the highway, up to 40 miles or more depending on the route chosen by the traveler. There are two sections where hikers may take an east or west route depending on personal preference and hiking ability. Be prepared with permits and clothing for drastic changes in temperature and weather pattern.

This 36-mile contiguous section of the Florida National Scenic Trail is the southernmost portion of trail. This moderately strenuous hike can be difficult to traverse at certain times of year. The trail can be under up to 3 to 4 feet of water in the rainy season. During the dry season, there can be little to no water along the trail.

Florida National Scenic Trail

Animals

Alligators or Crocodiles

Birds

Cats (wild)

Fish

Tortoises and Turtles

Climate Change

Fire

Grasslands

Prairies

Groundwater

Migrations

Natural Sounds

Scenic Views

Trails

Unique Species

Watersheds

Wetlands

Swamps

Wilderness

Museum Exhibits

The visitor center offers interactive exhibits, the park's introductory film, picnic areas, bathrooms, and a short scenic boardwalk. Stop by the front desk and ask a Ranger about the latest news and things to do while visiting the Preserve.

Visitor Center illuminated at night with night sky visible and palm trees in the foreground

Nathaniel P Reed Visitor Center

Located right off of Highway 41 (Taimiami Trail), the visitor center is easily accessible from the western coast of Florida.

Are you visiting Big Cypress National Preserve for the first time? Do want to learn about all of the awesome things there are to see and do here? The Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center is a great first stop. This visitor center contains exhibits, bathrooms, a short boardwalk, and visitor information. Stop by and talk with a Park Ranger to learn about the latest trail conditions, things to see and do, and ask some questions. The boardwalk behind the visitor center is a great spot to view wildlife. Alligators, birds, fish, and turtles frequent the area. Over the winter months, manatees can usually be seen. The visitor center is also a great spot to watch the park's 25 minute film. This film will introduce to the history, culture, natural resources, and the future of Big Cypress National Preserve.  The visitor center is open 7 days a week from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM.

The Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center offers exhibits, bathrooms, picnic areas, a short boardwalk, and visitor information materials that will help orient the first-time visitor and provide the latest information on conditions to returning visitors.

The visitor center is open from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM. The bathrooms are open all day, and the boardwalk is open from an hour before sunrise until an hour after sunset.

Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center

Estuaries and Mangroves

Hispanic American Heritage

Immigration

Logging and Timber Cutting

Latino American Heritage

Native American Heritage

Astronomy

Marshes

This 5-mile round trip hike (out and back) is a great way to see the sawgrass prairies of Big Cypress National Preserve. This is a hike which is good for all skill levels. There is virtually no elevation gain. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

This is an easy hike with very little elevation gain. Individuals attempting the trail should be in good health and be prepared to be in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

Trail running through sawgrass prairie with thunderstorm clouds in the distance

Fire Prairie Trail

The trailhead is located about 16 miles north of Highway 41 (Taimiami Trail East) on Turner River Road. There is a parking area adjacent to the trailhead on the west side of Turner River Road.

Soaring birds, prancing white-tailed deer, and slithering snakes can all be seen from this 5-mile round trip trail. The Fire Prairie Trail will take you through one of the more iconic landscapes in Big Cypress National Preserve - the sawgrass prairie. This trail provides a unique perspective of the Preserve that not many visitors take advantage of. This trail is good for all skill levels. Footing can be uneven in spots, and there is little to no shade along the trail. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

This five-mile long out and back trail is a great way to see the sawgrass prairies of Big Cypress National Preserve. Good for all skill levels, this trail provides unique viewing areas of some of the more elusive wildlife here. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

Forests and Woodlands

This mile long round trip trail is a relatively easy hike that will take you out to Deep Lake. Closed -toed shoes, pants, and walking sticks or hiking poles are suggested.

Anyone attempting this trail should be in good health and have a high level of mobility.

Deep Lake

The trailhead is located just to the left of the the Preserve's Deep Lake Fire Station. Park on in the grassy area on the opposite side of the street. Safely walk across the road and walk down the entrance way to the Deep Lake Fire Station. You will see the trailhead off to the left of access road.

The Deep Lake area of Big Cypress is a unique spot in the South Florida ecology. As one of only five naturally occurring sinkhole lakes in South Florida, it is truly a rare gem. The hike to this tranquil spot not only offers a one-mile round-trip stroll through sub-tropical beauty and diversified habitats, but also history. This area was some of the first property Barron Gift Collier purchased within the vicinity of the county that would soon bear his name. This high, dry parcel of the Preserve rewards any visitor equipped with an old pair of tennis shoes and a walking stick with an exceptional experience.

This one-mile moderate hike to Deep Lake is a unique experiences. Deep Lake is over 95 feet deep, and the deepest lake in south Florida. Leave yourself about an hour to complete the trail. During the wet season (May-October) the trail can be wet and muddy.

The Deep Lake Trail

Scenic Driving

This scenic drive follows three gravel roads out into the preserve. The roads are passable by any street legal vehicles, but there is washerboarding and potholes. Depending on what type of vehicle you are driving, you will probably travel slow. Check in with park staff for the latest on road conditions.

Canal with alligator in the foreground and vegetation along both sides

Canal along Turner River Road

This scenic drive begins off of Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail East) between milemarker 69 and 70. It continue for about 7 miles up Turner River Road until you reach Upper Wagonwheel Road. Turn left onto Wagonwheel and follow it for about 3 miles. When you reach the end of Wagonwheel, turn left onto Birdon Road and follow it for about 6 miles unit you return to Highway 41.

Shining water, flurries of wings, and sunning alligators are all things you may experience along the Turner River Road in Big Cypress Natioanl Preserve. The 1950s brough the addition of this road to the Big Cypress Swamp. Building in South Florida presents a challenge for you must rise above teh water by borrowing land. This creates a system of canals mirrowing the road ways. During the wet season, water is plentiful throughout the Preserve, and wildlife disperses. During the rmeainder of the year when water may be scarce, canals provide habitat for a myriad of wildlife. As you travel, keep a lookout for many of the plant and animal species that call Big Cypress National Preserve home.

This 16-mile loop drive is a great way to get away from the traffic along Highway 41, and take a slower drive through the Preserve. It offers the opportunity to see some of the many plant and animal species that call this place home.

Turner River/Wagonwheel/Birdon Scenic Drive

Transportation

Roads, Routes and Highways

Headwaters

This 24-mile scenic drive takes you into the heart of the cypress swamp. The first 16-miles of the road is gravel. Almost all street legal vehicles can handle this drive, but there is usually potholes and washerboarding. Check in with park staff for the latest road conditions

Most can complete the drive in around 1 1/2 hours. It is best to block off around 2 hours to complete this scenic drive.

Sweetwater Strand

The Loop Road begins off of Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail East) at Monroe Station. This mstoly unpaved gravel road runs for 24 miles, until it reunites with Highway 41 around mile-marker 40.

Enjoy the journey, not just the destination! Drive this scenic road, and explore some of the remote areas of the National Preserve. Loop Road, otherwise known as Country Road 94, was created out of a dispute over the official route of the Tamiami Trail. The road is gravel for most of the route. Ask a ranger about the current road conditions before traveling. Loop Road is 24 miles long and is south of the current path of the Tamiami Trail. Visitors will pass through mostly cypress swamps, which are flooded forests in the summer wet season, but mostly dry in teh winter, except for the areas of lowest elevation - the cypress strand. This drive is a great spot to see cypress trees, alligators, wading and water birds, turtles, and snakes.

This 24 mile long drive, on a mostly unpaved gravel road, is a great scenic drive through the cypress swamp. See a variety of plant and wildlife species, while getting a closeup look at the park's namesake cypress trees.

Loop Road Scenic Drive

This 5-mile roundtrip hike is an extremely immersive, moderately strenuous experience. You will hike out into a cypress swamp, and most times of the year, the majority of the trail will be under water. Wear closed-toed shoes, pants, and hiking poles or walking sticks are helpful.  In places where there is exposed limestone, beware of solution holes or potholes. If you're not careful, it is very easy to twist your ankle if you are not careful. Use caution when hiking on the trail.

This is a moderately strenuous hike which most of the year involves walking through water. Individuals attempting the trail should be in good health and willing to hike through ankle to hip deep water. Water levels can vary over the different seasons from little to no water, to about 4 feet of water. 

Cypress trees surrounding a pool of water. Air plants can be seen on cypress trees

Gator Hook Trail

The trailhead for Gator Hook Trail is located along the Loop Road roughly 2 miles from Monroe Station. If traveling south on the Loop Road from Monroe Station, the trailhead will be located on the left. You will see an informational kiosk. The trail begins to the right of it.

Exploring the swamp requires getting your feet wet. The five-mile roundtrip Gator Hook Trail offers such an opportunity. The trail begins along an elevated logging tram, but soon enters ankle to knee-deep water. For some, the water may rise to hip height. This scenic, moderately strenous hike, is unlike any other in Big Cypress National Preserve. You will become immersed in the resource (literally and figuratively), and experience something that very few visitors do - a wet hike through the cypress swamp.

This moderately strenuous hike is a highly-immersive experience. Journey into the the Gator Hook Strand. Walk through water that is ankle to knee-deep. See alligators, snakes, birds, bromeliads (air plants), and mature cypress trees.

Wildlife Watching

View alligators, birds, fish, and turtles from the boardwalk.

Boardwalk with visitors and Ranger with canal in the foreground. Alligators are below boardwalk

Oasis Boardwalk

The boardwalk is located directly in front of the Visitor Center along the human made canal adjacent to Highway 41. The Oasis Visitor Center is located between mile markers 72 and 73. There is a large parking lot and restrooms.

Alligators, alligators, and more alligators. The boardwalk direclty in front of the Oasis Visitor Center is a great place to see alligators, fish, birds, and turtles. Oh, and did we mention alligators? During the dry season, as the the swamp dries up, the wildlife is forced to congregate in fewer areas where there is still water. From November to May, this is a great spot to view numerous alligators from a safe perspective.  The boardwalk is only about 200 yards long, but it provides a great perspective of some of the wildlife here at Big Cypress National Preserve

This short boardwalk is a great viewing platform of alligators, birds, turtles, and fish.

Oasis Visitor Center Boardwalk

Walk along a boardwalk which overlooks a human made canal where you can spot alligators, birds, fish, turtles, and snakes. You can also pack a picnic, and enjoy it under that shade of palm trees.

Picnic tables dispersed amongst palm trees with a boardwalk in the background of the image.

H.P. Williams Wayside Park

Located immediately off of the Tamiami Trail (Highway 41) between mile markers 69 and 70, access to the parking lot is off of Turner River Road. 

This is a great stop to stretch your legs and take a closer look at some of Big Cypress National Preserve's wildlife. A short boardwalk gives you a unique perspective of a human made drainage canal which is now inhabited by a wide range of wildlife. Fish, birds, turtles, snakes, and alligators frequent these waters. Take a closer look in the water and at the trees to discover who may be in the perfect spot for a great picture. This area also has several shaded picnic tables and restrooms.  Right off of Highway 41, this is a great stop to see and learn about the wildlife of the swamp.

H.P. Williams Wayside Park is located immediately off of Highway 41. It includes a short boardwalk, picnic areas, and restrooms.

This one mile hike on a boardwalk is very easy and accessible. You will journey through a prairie landscape, past a reconstructed indigenous chickee hut, and into a cypress strand. It is a very immerssive experience and easy to do for all ages.

This mile long round trip boardwalk will take the average person somewhere between 20 to 30 minutes to complete. Save yourself some extra time for animal spotting while you're at the gator hole.

Kirby Storter Boardwalk

This great site is located just off of the Tamiami Trail (Highway 41) in Big Cypress National Preserve. It is located between mile markers 62 and 63. The address is 48900 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, 34141

This mile long hike on a boardwalk is one of the most immersive and accessible experiences at Big Cypress National Preserve. You will journey into a cypress strand and arrive at a gator hole. Gator holes are some of the deepest points in the swamp, and it can retain water nearly year round. You can see birds, snakes, fish, turtles, and maybe even an alligator or two.  There is also a nice picnic area and bathrooms available. This walk is good for the whole family and is accessible year round.

Only service animals are allowed on boardwalks in Big Cypress National Preserve.

This immersive boardwalk will take you into a cypress strand. Good for the whole family, this boardwalk is open daily from an hour before sunrise until an hour after sunset.

The boardwalk is open from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunset.

Alert: 2024 Off Road Vehicle Closure Order: All Off-Road Vehicle Trails will be temporarily closed for recreational access from Monday, June 3rd until Friday, August 2nd. Please click the link to view the official closure order.

Big Cypress

Overview

Hours

Fees & Passes

Map

Things To Do

Category

Stargazing in Big Cypress

Description

Florida National Scenic Trail

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Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center

Description

Fire Prairie Trail

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The Deep Lake Trail

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Turner River/Wagonwheel/Birdon Scenic Drive

Description

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