News Release

Big Cypress Reopens to Recreational Off-Road Vehicles after Annual Closure

Date: August 2, 2018
Contact: Ardrianna McLane, 239-695-1107

Ochopee – On Friday, August 3, 2018 at midnight, the annual 60-day recreational off-road vehicle (ORV) closure will end. Any units that allow recreational ORV access within the preserve will now be opened. The Recreational Off-Road Vehicle Management Plan requires a seasonal 60-day period to allow resources a time free from any pressures related to ORV use. The closure within Big Cypress National Preserve was first implemented in 2002.

For an updated annual ORV permit, visit the ORV Office at the Oasis Visitor Center on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9-noon on a first-come, first-served basis. You may also make an afternoon appointment on Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 12:30-4. Mondays are available by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please call 239-695-1205. The Oasis Visitor Center is located at 52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, Florida, 34141.

Mitchell Landing, Monument Lake, and Burns Lake Campgrounds will reopen August 15 for reservations. Reservations may be made by calling 1-877-444-6777 or by visiting https://www.recreation.gov/.

Big Cypress National Preserve also sells the America the Beautiful Federal Recreation Lands Pass during open ORV Office hours. To learn more about pass options, please visit: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm