Big Cypress National Preserve • Florida

A small alligator basking on top of dry vegetation.

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

The milky way dominating a starry night sky over palm trees and a visitor center

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

a Florida Panther sits in a tree

palm trees emerge out of the fog in an orange sunrise

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

Two Alligators rest on a river bank

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.

Alligators, big and small, call Big Cypress National Preserve home.
NPS Photo

Cypress swamps while appearing mysterious, are peaceful and serene.
NPS Photo

As an International Dark Sky Park, Big Cypress protects a beautiful night sky.
NPS Photo

Canoeing is one of the many activities you can enjoy in Big Cypress
NPS Photo

The Florida Panther is one of the most iconic animals of Big Cypress
John Kellam

palm trees emerge out of the fog as an orange sunrise dots the landscape
Richard Eskin

large open expanses of prairie bordered by pine lands create stunning landscapes
NPS photo

Two Alligators rest on a river bank
Al Sunshine

puffy clouds and grassy water meets at sunset

Explore the preserve your way with scenic drives, special events, and tons of outdoor activities.

Visitor Center with American Flag and Park Service Arrowhead

Directions to Big Cypress

Step by step instructions on how to find your park in South Florida.

Visitors and rangers hike in water of cypress swamp

Ranger-guided Activities

Discovery hikes, boardwalk talks, and interpretive canoe programs.Get out of the car and get into the real Big Cypress National Preserve

a narrow dirt road through trees

Plan Your Visit

Start planning your next adventure to Big Cypress National Preserve.

a person canoeing at sunset

Get Basic Info About Big Cypress

All of the basic trip planning information, all in one place. Prepare for your visit.

A tent in front of a car with a canoe on top

Camping at Big Cypress

With 8 campgrounds to choose from you can find your perfect campsite.

Last updated: August 11, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, FL 34141

Phone:

239 695-2000

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