Camping near Big Cypress National Preserve

Big Cypress National Preserve has several good camping options throughout the area. Collier-Seminole State Park maintains a campground with hiking trails nearby and a boat ramp you can use to get on the water. Hunt Camp gives you a more basic camping setup with non-potable water available but fewer amenities. Burns Lake Campground fills up with RVs during winter when people come down to escape cold weather up north. Most campers visit from November through April when it's cooler and more comfortable to be outside. Summers get really hot and humid, and you can count on afternoon thunderstorms rolling through regularly. You should book ahead during winter months since spots fill up fast, especially at the more developed sites. Collier-Seminole has restrooms, showers, and picnic tables that make family camping easier. Hunt Camp is pretty bare-bones but puts you right in the middle of the natural environment. Make sure to pack in your own drinking water and supplies at the more remote sites where you won't find many facilities. You'll likely see alligators and lots of wading birds while camping in the preserve. Big Cypress works well for quick weekend trips or longer stays depending on what you're looking for. Always double-check if any areas are closed before heading out, especially during seasonal transitions or after storms.

Best Camping Sites Near Big Cypress National Preserve (71)

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Recent Reviews near Big Cypress National Preserve

206 Reviews of 71 Big Cypress National Preserve Campgrounds



Guide to Big Cypress National Preserve

Camping near Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida, offers a unique experience filled with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you're a tent camper or an RV enthusiast, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own charm and challenges.

What to do:

  • Explore the Everglades: The nearby Everglades National Park is a must-visit. One camper mentioned, "Drive to Everglade City for a boat ride out to the bay. Fantastic experience." This is a great way to see alligators and other wildlife up close.
  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Many campgrounds, like Collier–Seminole State Park Campground, offer access to hiking trails. A visitor noted, "This was a great spot if you're camping in south Florida between spots and has great hiking."
  • Fishing: The waters around campgrounds like Monument Lake Campground are known for good fishing. One review stated, "Great fishing in the area. Fresh and salt."

What campers like:

  • Wildlife Viewing: Campers appreciate the chance to see wildlife. One camper at Mitchell Landing Campground shared, "I saw a bobcat and a billion alligators."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A visitor at Midway Campground said, "The standout for us was the quick and helpful response of the staff."
  • Scenic Views: Campers enjoy the beautiful scenery. A review for Trail Lakes Campground mentioned, "The campground was beautiful and the sites were somewhat spread out or had vegetation separating the sites."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially mosquitoes. A camper at Collier–Seminole State Park Campground warned, "The mosquitoes were so aggressive we got tons of bites."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Burns Lake Campground, have very few amenities. One visitor noted, "There are no showers but the bathrooms are nice."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Monument Lake Campground advised, "Reservations are required."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. A family at Naples-Marco Island KOA enjoyed the "pool, boat ramp, playground, and dog park."
  • Pack Insect Repellent: Given the bug situation, it's smart to bring insect repellent. One camper at Trail Lakes Campground reminded others, "Bring insect repellant & enjoy the Everglades!"
  • Plan for Limited Facilities: Be ready for basic facilities. A visitor at Horseshoe Primitive Campground mentioned, "Porta potties available, but no drinkable water."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Everglades Isle Motorcoach Retreat noted, "This place will not take older motorhomes regardless of condition."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to airboats. A camper at Everglades Isle Motorcoach Retreat said, "It was very noisy all day long."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Know where the nearest dump stations are. A visitor at Midway Campground mentioned, "Dump Station: At Midway."

Camping near Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Big Cypress National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Big Cypress National Preserve offers a wide range of camping options, with 71 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Cypress National Preserve and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Big Cypress National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big Cypress National Preserve is Monument Lake Campground — Big Cypress National Preserve with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Cypress National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Big Cypress National Preserve.

  • What parks are near Big Cypress National Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Big Cypress National Preserve that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.