The Big Cypress National Preserve is home to freshwaters that are essential to the health of the Everglades. The water supports the marine estuaries along the southwestern coast of Florida. Big Cypress National Preserve protects over 729,000 acres of temperate and tropical plant communities. Along with that, Big Cypress National Preserve offers various opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities, and it is considered the backyard for millions of visitors and residents in South Florida.
If you are ready for an adventure, you will want to travel through these parks with an RV. These vehicles offer all the luxuries of home as you see the best natural wonders in the country. For your next RV rental, make sure to check out RVshare. From large motorhomes to budget campervans, you can find a vehicle that will meet your travel needs.
Located just north of the Florida Everglades, Big Cypress National Preserve is a must-see spot in the state. This national preserve has a diverse mix of hardwoods, pines, mangroves, and prairies. You might even get a fantastic view of a manatee, an alligator, or a sand crane in their natural habitat. Kayaking and hiking are some of the most popular activities in this preserve.
Hiking TrailsIf you want to get down and dirty, you might want to check out the Gator Hook Trail. This back trail is located near Ochopee, and it features beautiful wildflowers along the path. The Gator Hook Trail gives you the perfect opportunity to see some native birds. However, if you're going to hike this trail, know that it is covered with ankle-high water.
Loop Drive, Ochopee, FL
4.7 miles
Easy to Moderate
If you want an easy hike, you should check out the Fire Prairie Trail. The terrain is even throughout the back trail, and you can even push a stroller down the path. Many visitors and residents head to this spot to see birds, plants, and other wildlife.
Immokalee, FL
4.5 miles
Easy
The famous Florida Trail passes through Big Cypress National Preserve. Since some of the trails travel through waist-high water, this path is not for the inexperienced hiker. However, you will have the chance to see some beautiful views of the Florida landscape. Along the way, you will find plenty of spots to take a break.
Ochopee, FL
29.5 miles
Moderate to Difficult
SightseeingLocated on U.S. 41, Collier-Seminole State Park is the home of the Bay City Walking Dredge. This piece of machinery was used to build the Tamiami Trail through the Everglades. This park also contains 6,430 acres of salt marshes, cypress swamps, mangrove estuaries, and pine flatwoods. Along with that, you might see American alligators, raccoons, or Florida black bears roaming through the park.
20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34114
The Ten Thousand Islands are a chain of mangrove islets and islands off the coast of Southwest Florida, and it is a popular spot to visit by boat. This spot is located at the mouth of the Lostmans River. Some of the islands poke through the submerged coastline, but others are located on the growing oyster bars. Despite its impressive name, there are only a few hundred of these islets.
Naples, FL
The Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is home to a variety of animal and plant species that can only be found in the park. This state park is divided into four main areas: Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, East River, Jones Grade Lake, and Janes Memorial Scenic Drive. You can visit the world's largest royal palm and bald cypress swamp at this park.
137 Coastline Drive, Copeland, FL 34137
MuseumsThe Everglades City Museum features permanent and rotating exhibits on the 2,000 years of human history in the region. You can learn about the adventurous individuals who settled in the area known as the River of Grass. The museum's building has been restored to its original 1920s appearance.
105 Broadway Avenue West, Everglades City, FL 34139
Opened in 2000, this museum houses a diverse collection of art in a three-story facility. Some of the permanent collection includes 20th-century Mexican art, works of American modernism, and 3D art. Along with the permanent collection, this museum also hosts traveling exhibits during the year.
5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples, FL 34108
This Southwest Florida museum contains thousands of military artifacts from all the branches. It is located at the Naples Municipal Airport. You can see historical artifacts dating back to the American Revolutionary War, and there are modern relics from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
500 Terminal Drive, Naples, FL 34104
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsIf you want to experience some Florida atmosphere, then head over to Joanie's Blue Crab Café. This hidden gem serves up incredible dishes, such as blue crab, gator nuggets, and frog legs. You can even order a cold beer on tap.
39395 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141
You can get breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Havana Café of the Everglades. The patio is the best place to eat as the lush landscape surrounds you. On the menu, you can enjoy some Cuban favorites or seafood dishes.
191 Smallwood Drive, Chokoloskee, FL 34138
If you are looking for a large selection of groceries for your trip, you need to stop at Right Choice Supermarket. This store carries everything from groceries to beer. There is also a selection of supplies for RVers.
102 Buckner Avenue South, Ochopee, FL 34141
You can enjoy some great local seafood selections at Paradise Seafood & Gourmet Market. This store features the freshest variety of seafood near the Everglades. You can also pick up locally made favorites, such as Key lime pies, chocolates, and coconut treats.
721 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island, FL 34145
From Naples, you'll want to take Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley) to exit 80. Head south on SR-29 toward Everglades City for 17 miles, and then turn left onto U.S. 41 S and proceed for a mile. The Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center will be on your right. The preserve is open 24/7/365.
33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141
Fee: Entry fee $0
If you want to experience the beauty of Florida, then make your way down to Big Cypress National Preserve. This protected region is the perfect way to see Southern Florida's diverse animal and plant life. For a unique vacation, consider renting an RV. With these vehicles, you can make memories that will last for a lifetime.
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