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Photo courtesy of Chelle Koster Walton
Big Cypress National Preserve
Type: Free Attractions, Reserves
10Best Says
For nature lovers traveling on a budget, it doesn't get any better than the land and water trails of Big Cypress National Preserve. This behemoth freshwater neighbor to Everglades National Park covers... Read More
For nature lovers traveling on a budget, it doesn't get any better than the land and water trails of Big Cypress National Preserve. This behemoth freshwater neighbor to Everglades National Park covers more than 720,000 acres and is home to such rare creatures as the Florida panther, Florida manatee and all the alligators you've ever cared to see.
Begin your explorations at the new free Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center. Its boardwalk trail lets you spy on manatees in the waters and anhingas in the trees. Inside, listen to the sounds of pig frogs, limpkins, thunder and rain and other 'Glades music.
Drive Loop Road for the best wildlife sightings and stop at the free Oasis Visitor Center to learn more about the environment and free ranger programs.
Hours:
- Daily Open 24 Hours
Admissions:
- Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Chelle Koster Walton
Naples Local Expert
- Things to Do with Kids, Free Things to Do, Best Attractions & Activities, Outdoor Activities: "Best spots to find alligators: The boardwalks at H.P. Williams Roadside Park and the Oasis Visitor Center."
- Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: The free Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center has hands-on exhibits and a boardwalk where you can usually see manatees.
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: It has the best environmental facilities and wildlife sighting in this part of the Everglades - all for free.
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: The Everglades is the most unique feature of this destination and Big Cypress offers the best opportunities to explore the habitat.
- Best for Outdoor Activities Because: Big Cypress National Preserve is all about the great outdoors with a number of recreational and educational activities available.
