Big Cypress National Preserve

What is Big Cypress National Preserve?
- Big Cypress National Preserve is a lovely national preserve, a 45-minute weekend getaway from Miami. It spans 720,000 acres throughout the region's Atlantic coastal plain terrain.
When was Big Cypress National Preserve established?
- The preserve was established as one of the United States' first national preserves in 1974, along with Texas' Big Thicket National Preserve.
What flora and fauna can be found at Big Cypress National Preserve?
- A wide range of native Florida flora and fauna are protected throughout the preserve, including Florida panthers, alligators, anhingas, river otters, mangrove trees, and over 30 varieties of blooming orchards.
What activities can visitors do at Big Cypress National Preserve?
- Visitors can explore the preserve's hiking and paddling trails as part of self-guided tours, embark on ranger-led swamp talks or canoeing excursions, or book custom tours with businesses like Captain Steve's Swamp Buggy and Airboat Adventures.
What is the Loop Road Scenic Drive?
- The park's lovely Loop Road Scenic Drive is home to the scenic Sweetwater Strand Bridge, a popular alligator viewing spot, and the charming town of Pinecrest, which was known nationally throughout the mid-20th century for its famed dance club and bar Gator Hook Lodge.

33100 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141, Phone: 239-695-2000, Map

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