Where is Big Cypress National Preserve,Ochopee, Florida?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Big Cypress National Preserve is located in Florida, USA. It lies between the Everglades National Park and the Big Cypress Swamp and is situated in southern Florida, near the Gulf Coast. The preserve is famous for its swamp landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and airboat tours.

Big Cypress National Preserve Location Map,Ochopee, Florida

Top Attractions Inside Big Cypress National Preserve

  • Florida Panther Observation Areas – Spots to observe the elusive Florida panther and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Snake Bight Trail – Boardwalk trail through cypress wetlands offering scenic views and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Gator Hook Trail – Accessible trail for spotting alligators, wading birds, and unique wetland vegetation.
  • Loop Roads & Scenic Drives – Routes like Turner River and Loop Roads provide access to swamps, prairies, and wildlife viewing areas.
  • Oasis Visitor Center – Provides exhibits, maps, and information about the preserve’s ecosystem, wildlife, and recreational activities.
  • Alligator Pond – Small wetland area ideal for photography, wildlife observation, and short walks.
  • Hiking & Canoeing Routes – Trails and waterways for exploring the preserve’s diverse cypress swamps and prairies.

Big Cypress National Preserve Facts

Official / Common NameBig Cypress National Preserve
LocationOchopee, Florida, USA — Southwest Florida, just north of Everglades National Park
Latitude & Longitude (approx.)≈ 25.86° N, 81.08° W (central preserve reference point)
Access / Route & DescriptionAccessible primarily via U.S. Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) and I-75 (Alligator Alley); wilderness wetlands, cypress swamps, prairies, pinelands, and backcountry areas accessible by boardwalks, scenic drives, and off-road routes
Managed By / Governing AuthorityNational Park Service (NPS), U.S. Department of the Interior
Landscape / Scenery & EnvironmentVast subtropical wetlands, cypress forests, wet prairies, mangrove fringes, pinelands, hardwood hammocks, and rich wildlife habitat including Florida panthers, alligators, wading birds, and diverse aquatic ecosystems
Main Attractions / What It OffersWildlife viewing, scenic driving along Tamiami Trail, hiking, paddling, birdwatching, swamp walks, photography, off-road vehicle recreation (with permit), nature programs, and access to deep-swamp backcountry
Access / Best Use / Vehicle & Safety NotesMany areas accessible by regular vehicles; backcountry and ORV areas require permitted off-road vehicles; summer heat and mosquitos can be intense; wetlands and seasonal flooding may limit access; visitors advised to bring water and prepare for wildlife encounters
Nearest Town / Park HQ ReferenceOchopee, Florida (location of the main visitor center — Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center and Oasis Visitor Center)
Area SizeApproximately 729,000 acres (vast subtropical preserve adjacent to Everglades)
Significance / NotabilityFirst National Preserve in the U.S.; protects essential freshwater flow into the Everglades; major habitat for the endangered Florida panther; celebrated for unique swamp ecosystems and accessible wilderness experiences
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) — UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving

Distances from Big Cypress National Preserve to Nearby Landmarks

  • Everglades National Park – 35 km (22 mi)
  • Ochopee, FL – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Naples, FL – 85 km (53 mi)
  • Miami, FL – 120 km (75 mi)
  • Fort Myers, FL – 100 km (62 mi)
  • Everglades City – 25 km (15.5 mi)
  • Chokoloskee, FL – 30 km (18.6 mi)
  • Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park – 45 km (28 mi)
  • Loop Road Trailheads – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Tamiami Trail (US 41) – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Collier-Seminole State Park – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Royal Palm Visitor Center (Everglades) – 40 km (25 mi)
  • Miccosukee Indian Village – 35 km (22 mi)
  • Everglades National Park Shark Valley Visitor Center – 45 km (28 mi)
  • Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Marco Island, FL – 95 km (59 mi)
  • Everglades Holiday Park – 40 km (25 mi)
  • Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Hendry/Collier County Line – 5 km (3.1 mi)