|
|
|
|
Big Cypress National Preserve Review
Read our Everglades National Park sights reviews. Or post your own.
Big Cypress National Preserve
- Category: Nature Preserves
- Location: Big Cypress National Preserve
Fodor's Review:
Through the 1950s and early 1960s, the world's largest cypress-logging industry prospered in the Big Cypress Swamp. The industry died out in the 1960s, and the government began buying parcels. Today, 729,000 acres, or nearly half of the swamp, have become this national preserve. The word "big" in its name refers not to the size of the trees but to the swamp, which juts down into the north side of Everglades National Park like a piece in a jigsaw puzzle. Its size and strategic location make it an important link in the region's hydrological system, in which rainwater first flows through the preserve, then south into the park, and eventually into Florida Bay. Its variegated pattern of wet prairies, ponds, marshes, sloughs, and strands provides a wildlife sanctuary, and thanks to a policy of balanced land use -- "use without abuse" -- the watery wilderness is devoted to research and recreation as well as preservation. The preserve allows -- in limited areas -- hunting, off-road vehicle (airboat, swamp buggy, four-wheel-drive vehicles) use by permit, and cattle grazing. Compared with Everglades National Park, the preserve is less developed and has fewer visitors. That makes it ideal for naturalists, birders, and hikers who prefer to see more wildlife than humans. Several scenic drives link off Tamiami Trail; some require four-wheel-drive vehicles, especially in wet summer months. A few lead to camping areas. Roadside picnic areas are off the Tamiami Trail. There are three types of trails -- walking (including part of the extensive Florida National Scenic Trail), canoeing, and bicycling. All three trail types are easily accessed from the Tamiami Trail near the preserve's visitor center, and one boardwalk trail departs from the center. Canoe and bike equipment can be rented from outfitters in Everglades City, 24 mi west, and Naples, 40 mi west.
Get Advice From Other Travelers
- Looking for a nice 2 bedroom villa in South Florida??
0 responses; most recent on 09/18/2008, 05:42 pm - Too Dreamy in Florida??
16 responses; most recent on 09/10/2008, 01:57 pm
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip >>
Buy the Guidebook
-
$19.95
-
$22
Get the Fodor's Newsletter
Read the current issue
For more travel ideas, tips, and deals, sign up for the Fodor's newsletter here. Browse previous issues.
