• The Florida panther's watchful gaze- Courtesy- Ralph Arwood

    Big Cypress

    National Preserve Florida

There are park alerts in effect.
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  • Fire Activity

    Currently there is fire activity within the Preserve. More »

  • 2013 Zone 4 Closure

    Beginning at 12:01 am Monday, April 8, 2013, the Zone 4 airboat access within Big Cypress National Preserve will be closed due to low water conditions. More »

  • Interstate 75 Mile Marker 63 Closure

    Beginning summer of 2013 the rest area and backcountry access at mile marker 63 will be closed due to construction. More »

  • Campground Closures

    Beginning Monday, May 13 through Friday, August 16 camping will be available at the Midway Campground and the “loop” in the Bear Island Campground within Big Cypress National Preserve. All other established campgrounds will be closed. More »

For Teachers

Big Cypress National Preserve, in cooperation with the Collier County School District, conducts the Swamp, Water and Me Program (S.W.A.M.P.). This curriculum based program provides an opportunity for sixth grade students within the county to explore and learn about the Big Cypress Swamp, a major portion of their backyard.

These webpages contain valuable information and materials for teachers interested and already involved in the program.

For more information about the program contact the Preserve Education and Outreach Office at 239-695-1164, or email by clicking here.

S.W.A.M.P. Teachers Guide

For more information on available activities click here.

Did You Know?

Bear in a tree.

Many do not expect to see bears in Florida. Actually, we have a healthy population within the state. Big Cypress is one of their ideal habitats in southwest Florida. If camping in the area, be sure to keep your camp "bear proof."