1 - Big Cypress National Preserve
Located within the Big Cypress Swamp region of southern Florida. The Swamp extends from the eastern boundary of the Everglades to the west coast, and southward from the Caloosahatchee River drainage to the estuaries of the Gulf of Mexico. The Swamp consists of 1205 square miles of wetland habitat and was named for the expansive area where the cypress trees grow.

Over the past 6 million years, the land was covered and uncovered by a fluctuating sea level. As time passed, new marine sediments were formed on the shallow ocean floor. When the water receded, land areas took shape, drainage patterns developed, and vegetation and animals adapted to the area. Surface water drained off slowly in an arc to the Gulf of Mexico. The movement of water, known as sheetflow, was similar to a shallow river without banks. Where the waters dissolved the underlying limestone forming topographic depressions known as "solution holes," deeper soils accumulated, and the larger cypress trees grow.

There are 5 campgrounds available for no charge 4/16 - 12/14. Camping at Monument Lake is $14/night 12/15 - 4/15. Stores are located in nearby Everglades City and Ochopee.

Permit Information
Backcountry permits are required for some of the areas along the Florida National Scenic Trail. Check with local management entities for the most up-to-date information.

Directions
I-75, state road 29, and U.S. 41 all travel through the preserve.

Information Center
The visitor center is located on Tamiami Trail (U.S.41) approximately half-way between Naples and Miami.

Activities