Primitive camping opportunities abound near Copeland, Florida with several campgrounds located within the boundaries of Big Cypress National Preserve. The area sits at a low elevation of 3-10 feet above sea level, creating a unique wetland environment where freshwater from the north meets saltwater from the Gulf. During winter months (November-April), temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, while summer brings heat and daily thunderstorms.
What to Do
Wildlife viewing hikes: The Florida Trail has its southern terminus at Oasis Visitor Center in Big Cypress. "There are a rich history in these swamps and waterways. Several great marked canoe trails to explore nearby the campground (Mitchell Landing, Turner River Canoe Trail, and Halfway Creek Canoe Trail)," notes Dave V.
Kayak rentals: Access waterways through several campgrounds including Chokoloskee RV Park. "You can rent boat slips or launch a kayak; rent one if you don't have your own. Pick up your fishing supplies at the office. The historic Smallwood store is just a little farther down the road," reports Jean C.
Star gazing: Experience minimal light pollution at many campsites. "There are no towns close by so the light pollution is low," notes Victoria S. from Trail Lakes Campground. Another camper adds, "It was a full moon the night we stayed and the stars were still incredibly bright as there is very little light pollution."
Local hiking trails: Picayune Strand State Forest offers sandy trails accessible from campgrounds. "Several trails leave the campground from the northwest corner. Adequately marked and all are sandy," explains a reviewer of Horseshoe Primitive Campground.
What Campers Like
Private tent areas: More secluded options at Burns Lake Campground for those who prefer distance from RVs. "We're tent campers and loved this place. There's only 7 tent sites and they're on the opposite side of the lake from the RV's (I think there's about 10 RV sites). It's far enough from the road that's it's quiet (about a mile on gravel from the state route to the campsites)," writes Melissa W.
Cultural attractions: Explore local history near pet-friendly camping around Copeland. "The dredging and construction of US 41 which cuts across the Everglades that connects east with west began here. In fact, the only Bay City Walking Dredge in existence is found in this park," describes a visitor to Collier-Seminole State Park.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers note the maintenance of amenities even at primitive sites. At Bear Island Campground, "The site was clean and well groomed. We were close to the swamp and at night saw quite a few crayfish crawling around on the ground at night which was a first for me," reports Bobby G.
What You Should Know
Preparation is essential: Remote locations require planning. "Bring everything you need because the drive in is over 20 miles of dirty/gravel roads," advises a Bear Island Campground visitor.
Wildlife precautions: Take proper measures for food storage. "Bears can be pesky...keep your food sealed in containers...in your car. You may still get a visitor anyways," warns Dave V. about camping at Horseshoe Primitive Campground.
Insect management: All campgrounds experience varying levels of biting insects. "It was February- sure June would be different..." notes Laura K. about Trail Lakes Campground, while another camper advises, "Don't make the mistake like we did and wear sandals though, the chiggers/no see ums are terrible."
Limited amenities: Most sites offer basic facilities. "No potable water (bring all the water you need), No Electricity, No Showers, No waste receptacles," lists Dave V. about Horseshoe Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Scout for kid-friendly sites: Some campgrounds offer better facilities for children. At Collier–Seminole State Park Campground, "The park is also on a river you can kayak or put a canoe in. They even provide rentals. The campground is well maintained and has three good size shower houses. There is a nice playground by the river and a few historic markers to explore," shares September H.
Night nature walks: Midway Campground provides opportunities for supervised wildlife viewing. "If you stay here make sure you take a walk around at night that is where we ended up seeing a lot of critters which was really cool. Also make sure you take a flashlight and look in many of the waterways," recommends a Bear Island visitor.
Educational opportunities: Pet-friendly camping spots near Copeland often include history lessons. "This is a great site for those testing camping with their dogs or small children. Not too far of a trip, great walking space, and the ranger is great about making sure all dogs are kept on leash," writes Liz M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For larger rigs, choose campgrounds with adequate turning space. "Some the the sites are tricky to back into (site poles, trees....etc.) weather they were on the site OR a site across from yours," observes Doug E. about Collier-Seminole State Park.
Dump station access: Plan for services at specific locations. "Dump station and potable water available. Host was very friendly and checked on campers regularly," notes Kevin A. about Midway Campground.
Generator restrictions: Verify noise policies before arrival. "Generators must be off at 10:00 pm," states a visitor to Monument Lake Campground.
