Big Cypress National Preserve camping areas range from primitive sites to those with basic amenities, spread across the 729,000-acre wilderness along the Tamiami Trail. Most campgrounds sit at near-sea level elevation in this subtropical environment where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. Winter camping season runs from mid-August through mid-April when temperatures moderate to 70-80°F during the day.
What to do
Swamp walks and guided tours: Pinecrest Group Campground serves as a starting point for backcountry exploration. "We were shocked there were so many vacancies following a holiday weekend, but that's not the norm," notes one reviewer about nearby Monument Lake Campground.
Airboat experiences: Several airboat operations run along Tamiami Trail near Mitchell Landing Campground, where "there is an airboat launch area" according to a visitor. Another camper reported: "End of the campground there is an airboat launch that was cool to watch."
Freshwater fishing: Access excellent fishing spots from Mitchell Landing. "The best fresh water fishing around is close to this campground. No water. Clean vault. Peacock bass galore. Largemouth, warmouth, bowfin, gar and many imports," writes one fishing enthusiast.
Paddling: Rent kayaks or canoes at Trail Lakes Campground. "They offer guided trips, or you can book from the many other businesses in the area offering swamp buggy, airboat, hiking, tram, fishing, and paddling/boat trips," shares a reviewer.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Monument Lake Campground offers exceptional night views. "The stars were absolutely incredible being so far from major cities," reports one camper, while another at Trail Lakes noted: "Worth it for the dark skies and wide open feel of being immersed in the Everglades."
Spacious sites: Sites at Trail Lakes provide ample room. "The sites are clean and spacious. Fire rings and firewood are available, as well as laundry," mentions a reviewer. Another camper added: "We were guided to a pull thru site. This was a first for us and we were thrilled."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Burns Lake Campground offers excellent wildlife sighting potential. "I was the only one camping. Loved it. Saw a bobcat and a billion alligators," shares a camper. At Midway Campground, "All sites face a pond which does have a resident alligator."
Central location: Many campgrounds provide convenient access to multiple parks. "Midway Campground is half way between Naples and Miami and a great central point if you're planning to explore both Everglades National Park and Big Cypress Preserve," notes a reviewer.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Several campgrounds close during summer. "Monument Lake is only open during the Florida winter. For alternative options, Midway Campground was the closest option open in Miami direction," advises a camper.
Limited amenities: Most Big Cypress campgrounds offer basic facilities. At Mitchell Landing, "Sites are first-come, first served and you'll have a choice of sites that are tucked away behind brush and trees or large, more open sites. There's no drinking water available."
Insects can be overwhelming: Bugs are a significant concern, especially during warmer months. "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," warns a camper at Collier-Seminole State Park.
Weather extremes: Prepare for changing conditions. At Flamingo Campground, a camper noted: "Recent Weather: very mixed this year. 50s into the 80s," while summer visitors should expect daily afternoon thunderstorms.
Tips for camping with families
Check reservation requirements: Campground availability varies seasonally. "Sites are $28 for RV (26 sites), and $24 for tent sites (10). As a tent camper, I prefer sites along the north side of the lake (15-18)…more shade trees to string hammocks," shares a Monument Lake visitor.
Consider noise factors: Road proximity affects some sites. At Midway Campground, "The further you are into the campground, less road noise," advises a camper. Another notes: "The closest campsites are maybe 100 meters from the Tamiami Trail so if you're a light sleeper, it is less than ideal."
Plan for wildlife safety: Keep children and pets away from water edges. At Midway Campground, "signs to beware of alligators though we never saw one" are common. Another visitor warns: "Signs to NOT walk your dog on the lake side. So to walk your dog you have to let them wee all over your neighbors' 'land' which is mortifying."
Visit during cooler months: Winter offers more comfortable camping conditions in dog-friendly campgrounds near Everglades National Park. "I would go in the cooler months for sure! So many mosquitoes and yellow biting flies," advises a Collier-Seminole visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Midway Campground offers electric but not full hookups. "This place was great to spend a night. The host was very friendly and helpful, checked in frequently. It has electric hookup only but it does provide access to potable water as well as a dump station."
Site navigation: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger RVs. At Monument Lake, "Wide open spaces surround the lake. Nothing to block the wind! The bathhouse was very clean, and the camp host was nice." Another visitor noted that sites are "just off the main road."
Generator rules: Different campgrounds have varying generator policies. At Flamingo Campground, one visitor reported: "Lots of generators running that morning," indicating their use is permitted during certain hours.
Leveling considerations: Terrain varies across campgrounds. "We were at site 14 which is as far from Hwy 41 as possible. Had to swing out onto the grass to back in since the road and sites are narrow," shares a Midway Campground visitor.
