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Florida Everglades
Big Cypress National Preserve
The 729,000 acre Big Cypress National Preserve was set aside in 1974 to ensure the preservation, conservation, and protection of the natural scenic, floral and faunal, and recreational values of the Big Cypress Watershed. The importance of this watershed to the Everglades National Park was a major consideration for its establishment. The name Big Cypress refers to the large size of this area. Vast expanses of cypress strands span this unique landscape.
Most visitor facilities within the preserve are open and accessible every day of the year. Some seasonal and emergency closures may occur.
The Oasis Visitor Center is open from 9:00 - 4:30, every day but Christmas.
The Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Permit Office, located at the visitor center, is open from 9:00 - 3:00, every day but Christmas. ORV inspections are conducted Friday through Monday.
The preserve Headquarters Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 - 4:30. The headquarters is closed on all Federal Holidays.
Location - On Tamiami Trail (U.S.41) approximately half-way between Naples and Miami. The Oasis Visitor Center is located along the Tamiami Trail, 50 miles west of Miami and 50 miles east of Naples. Preserve Headquarters is located near Naples and Everglades City, along U. S. 41, 5 miles east of the State Road 29 intersection.
Campgrounds
Fees are collected for the use of the Monument Lake and Midway Campgrounds from December 15 through April 15. There are free campgrounds within the preserve as well. Camping is limited to 10 days.
Monument Lake Campground
RV and Tent sites $16.00 per night / $8.00 with Golden Age/Access Passport Campers are allowed to use the Dona Drive or Midway Campground dump station at no cost, while staying in preserve.
Midway Campground
RV site $19.00 per night / $10.00 with Golden Age/Access Passport Tent site $16.00 per night / $8.00 with Golden Age/Access Passport Dump Station free to campers.
Dump Stations
$6.00 / $3.00 with Golden Age/Access Passport for camping units not utilizing preserve campgrounds.
Contact:
Oasis Visitor Center 239-695-1201
H.P. Williams Roadside Park
H.P. Williams Roadside Park is located at the intersection of US 41 (Tamiami Trail) and Hwy 839 (Turner River Road). This small park consists of picnic tables along a canal active with fish and alligators.
Turner River Road
Turner River Road is located north, off of the US 41 (Tamiami Trail). A drive along this dirt road takes you through mostly open prairie interspersed with slash pine and along canals frequented by birds and alligators.
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