Loop Road Scenic Drive Big Cypress National Preserve

Discover the real Big Cypress National Preserve by car, bike or on foot.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Southwest Florida

Significance:

Largest cypress swamp. Home to Florida panthers

Designation:

National Preserve

Amenities

4 listed

Beach/Water Access, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles

County Road 94, better known as Loop Road, is a welcome respite from the traffic of the Tamiami Trail and a chance to discover the real Big Cypress National Preserve.

In the 1930s, the Pinecrest community was primarily a logging town with approximately 200 residents at its peak. It had a saw mill, a public school, general store and filling station, mess shack and bunk house, but little else.

If you start driving Loop Road from the Miami (east) side, you will drive past a campground named Pinecrest. The name is one of the few things related to the failed town you will still see today along with a few other reminders such as the tiny gas station on the side of the road.

Throughout the 24-mile drive, take your time. nEjoy the views of sawgrass prairies, hardwood hammocks, and cypress swamp. Watch for alligators, great blue herons, turtles, and other wildlife who call this place home.

You can fish, photograph, and wet hike through the swamp-- just make sure you can find your way back.