• 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 »

2013 Swamp Heritage Festival

P27-M34-EA-airboat-to saqa
Fiber Art
Courtesy - Déda Maldonado’
 

Mark you calendars! Join us on December 7, 2013, at the Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center as we celebrate the history and culture of South Florida for the third annual Swamp Heritage Festival. Learn about the history of this rugged, yet beautiful environment through park rangers, volunteers, local experts and residents that will share their love of the swamp through programs, activities, and thought-provoking presentations.

This FREE family-friendly event shines a spotlight upon the inhabitants of early south Florida, whose rugged strength and pioneering spirit contributed to the shaping of today's unique and diverse culture. Through living history demonstrations, informative presentations, and exhibits everyone can learn what daily life was like in such a remote, and at times, inhospitable place. These unique chapters in American history add to the rich and colorful tableau that comprises our shared past and present.

What to expect

* Fascinating Exhibits
* Powerful Demonstrations
* Thought-provoking Presentations
* Palate-pleasing local food

If you would like to participate in this event as an exhibitor, or demonstrate your craft, please contact Jill Wilson at 239-695-4758.

Did You Know?

Airboat traveling through wet prairies.

Airboats are one of the approved ways to access remote areas of Big Cypress National Preserve. Remember, all off-road vehicle access requires a valid permit, and visitors operating ORVs need to know the legal areas they can operate.