Ochopee is a charming unincorporated community in Collier County, originally founded as a tomato farming settlement in the early 20th century on 240 acres of land purchased by area pioneer James Gaunt. Following the establishment of Gaunt's tomato farm property, a thriving community sprung up throughout the region, which included what is now the smallest post office in the United States today. Visitors can explore the post office at select times throughout the year, which is located within a former storage shed facility. The community also serves as the official gateway to Big Cypress National Preserve, which spans 720,000 acres throughout the region's lovely Atlantic Coast terrain and protects native Florida wildlife such as Florida panthers, alligators, and mangrove trees. Preserve visitors can enjoy opportunities for ranger-led swamp talks, canoeing excursions, or airboating adventures overseen by the National Park Service.