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National Preserve

Big Cypress National Preserve

A small alligator basking on top of dry vegetation.

Alligators, big and small, call Big Cypress National Preserve home.

Photo: NPS Photo

About

The freshwaters of the Big Cypress Swamp, essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades, support the rich marine estuaries along Florida's southwest coast. Conserving over 729,000 acres of this vast swamp, Big Cypress National Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to diverse wildlife, including the Endangered Florida panther.

Activities

Arts and CultureAuto and ATVATV Off-RoadingScenic DrivingAstronomyStargazingBikingRoad BikingBoatingBoat TourCampingBackcountry CampingCar or Front Country CampingGroup CampingRV CampingFoodPicnicking

Directions

Big Cypress National Preserve is located along Tamiami Trail East (US 41) and I-75 in southern Florida. The preserve can be accessed by driving from the cities of Miami and Naples. The preserve's two visitor centers are located along Tamiami Trail East.

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Weather

Big Cypress National Preserve experiences two predominant seasons- wet and dry. RAINY SEASON (May through October) While visiting during this season you may find daily afternoon thunderstorms, high humidity, temperatures in the mid-to-high 80s and a multitude of mosquitoes. DRY SEASON (November through April) Falling water levels within Big Cypress make this a pleasant time to hike, camp, and watch wildlife.

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