• 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 »

2011 Advisory Committee Schedule

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Date: December 13, 2010
Contact: Bob DeGross, 239-695-1107
Contact: Damon Doumlele, 239-695-1158

The Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Advisory Committee (ORVAC) will meet at the Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center, 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141 from 3:30 to 8:00 p.m., on the following dates in 2011: Wedensday, February 23; Wedensday, April 27; Thursday, June 23; Thursday, August 25; Tuesday, October 18; Tuesday, December 6.

For more details about the ORVAC, meeting agendas and minutes, Click here. Comments and requests may also be submitted in writing to - Superintendent, Big Cypress National Preserve, 33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141, Attn: ORV Advisory Committee.

The ORV Advisory Committee was established pursuant to the Preserve's 2000 Recreational Off-road Vehicle Management Plan and the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 to examine issues and make recommendations regarding the management of ORVs within the Preserve.

The establishment of the Committee fulfills the National Park Service's policy of civic engagement. It is envisioned that the committee will strengthen the relationship that the NPS has with its partners and communities. The Committee will be comprised of individuals that represent (1) Sportsmen / ORV users; (2) landowners; (3) academia; (4) environmental advocates; (5) the State government, and (6) Tribal Governments.

Did You Know?

Alligator in the swamp.

Within the preserve, the HP Williams and Oasis Wildlife Viewing Platforms are popular areas to see alligators. The best time to see large congregations of alligators is typically from January through May. Remeber not to feed or approach these dangerous animals.