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Big Cypress National Preserve
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Part of the Big Cypress Swamp, encompassing more than 2,400 sq miles of southern Florida and a major source of water for the Florida Everglades and southwestern part of the state. This national preserve protects this valuable resource and provides sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. The preserve takes in marshlands, dry prairie, estuarine mangrove forests and islands of hardwoods. Two major highways cross the preserve -- Hwy 84 and the scenic Tamiami Trail (Hwy 41) -- making it accessible from both coasts. The visitor center, 20 miles east of Ochopee on Hwy 41 includes exhibits and is open daily 8:30am-4:30pm; closed Christmas Day.
