Big Cypress National Preserve offers camping opportunities in a subtropical landscape where freshwater swamp merges with salt marsh. Located between Naples and Miami, the preserve sits at an elevation just a few feet above sea level, creating a unique ecosystem where water levels fluctuate seasonally. During winter months, temperature ranges from 50-75°F while summer brings intense heat, high humidity, and daily thunderstorms.
What to do
Loop Road driving tour: 26 miles of unpaved backcountry road showcases wildlife and cypress swamps. "Drive to Loop Road in Big Cypress with lots of wildlife. Also good Basecamp for visits to Shark Valley Trail as wall as Ten Thousand Islands," notes a visitor at Monument Lake Campground.
Kayaking through mangroves: Rent equipment at several locations including Trail Lakes Campground where "You could buy ice and firewood, as well as rent kayaks if you dared to boat through alligator swamps." Paddlers can explore marked trails like Turner River Canoe Trail.
Ranger-led wet walks: Guided tours through cypress swamps occur during dry season. "Do a Ranger led wet walk. It is out of this world," recommends a camper. These walks typically last 1-2 hours and require reservation.
Wildlife photography: Dawn and dusk offer prime opportunities to spot Florida wildlife. "HP Williams Roadside Park is west ten miles and Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center and Everglade City a bit further," writes a reviewer describing locations for wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Remote locations provide exceptional night viewing. "You may find the price a bit high, but worth it for the dark skies and wide open feel of being immersed in the Everglades. It was a full moon the night we stayed and the stars were still incredibly bright as there is very little light pollution," notes a visitor at Trail Lakes Campground.
Campfire community: Most sites include fire rings with wood available for purchase. "Fire pits are at every site and fires are encouraged. If you did not bring wood, there is some for sale," reports a camper.
Spacing between sites: Bear Island Campground offers more privacy than roadside options. "The sites are large and you shouldn't feel crowded. The area was well maintained and the vault toilet was clean."
Wildlife encounters: Alligator viewing remains a key attraction from safe distances. "Bathrooms are clean, very nice boat dock," notes a visitor at Collier-Seminole State Park where water access allows wildlife observation.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Many campgrounds operate only from fall through spring. "Monument lake is only open during the Florida winter. For alternative options, Midway Campground was the closest option open in Miami direction, and Trail Lakes Campground was the closest option open in Naples Direction."
Mosquito preparation essential: Biting insects remain a constant challenge, particularly at dusk. "The cons...? Well if you do choose to visit. BRING any and ALL mosquito repellent. I am a Florida native born and raised and I have dealt with my share of mosquitoes. These grounds are now on the top of the list of bad bugs sites."
Limited supplies nearby: "You are out there…in the middle of nowhere. You would need to drive a considerable distance on 41 east or west to get to a service station that might have what you are looking for," explains a camper at Burns Lake Campground.
Vault toilets at primitive sites: Many locations lack running water. "Bathrooms are provided and they were clean with no issues. Bring bug spray if you intend to sit outside at night," advises a visitor at Midway Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Safety around water: Keep constant supervision near any water. "NO SWIMMING! There are gators in the lake, and they can be large. Do not leave small pets unattended. All food must be secured at all times due to the proximity of wildlife."
Protective clothing recommended: Light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants protect against sun and insects. "We are in November now and the weather is in the 70s during the day and 60s at night so the mosquitoes are not bad, but they are still present. Having a bottle of bug spray and maybe a fogger will do just fine in this weather."
Educational opportunities: "The Skunk Ape Research Center at front of campground is the check in til 5pm then the shack on the right past the gate is open 5pm/9pm," notes a visitor at Trail Lakes Campground, mentioning the local cryptid museum that fascinates children.
Kid-friendly boardwalks: Several short trails accommodate all ages. "If its cooler and you can't seem to find any gators…my favorite spots nearby are the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk (17 miles west from the campground on US 41). The boardwalk extends some 2300 feet back into Fakahatchee Strand."
Tips from RVers
Dump stations limited: "Electric hookup only but it does provide access to potable water as well as a dump station." Many campgrounds lack full hookups, requiring planning for waste disposal.
Generator restrictions: Quiet hours strictly enforced throughout preserve. "Generators must be off at 10:00 pm. Fishing allowed in lake. Campsites are quite level."
Large rig access varies: Some campgrounds accommodate sizeable vehicles while others have tight clearances. "Another great aspect of this location is your ability to see all of the stars. There are no towns close by so the light pollution is low."
Winter reservation requirements: "You may stay 10 days Jan-Apr; 14 days the rest of the year. If you have a senior or access pass, your fees are discounted 50%." Peak season requires advance bookings through Recreation.gov or directly with private campgrounds.
