Big Cypress WMA Collier,
Dade, Monroe Site # 8346
Big
Cypress WMA consists of 565,848 acres. The area spans parts of Collier, Dade,
and Monroe counties. The name 'Big Cypress' refers to the extent of the area
and not to the size of the trees. In
fact many of the trees within the Big Cypress are dwarf pond cypress but areas
of pinelands, tropical hardwood hammocks, and freshwater marshes abound.
Both temperate and tropical flora and fauna
are found throughout Big Cypress. Here
you can find many rare and protected species including the Florida panther and
black bear as well as the tropical liguus tree snail, royal palm, and cigar
orchid. Recreational opportunities include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing,
paddling, hiking, biking, and camping.
Designated campsites are available at several locations in the WMA. The
Oasis Visitor Center is located on US Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) mid-way
between Naples and Miami.
There are two
driving tours, abundant with wildlife, that lead you through open prairies,
cypress swamps, hammocks, and pinelands; Turner River Road and Loop Road. Turner River Road is a dirt road which dead
ends approximately 20 miles north of 41 with no access to I-75. Loop Road has access points at Monroe Station
and Forty Mile Bend Check Station and runs south of Highway 41 for 23 miles (15
miles, dirt; eight miles, paved).
Hiking trails of varying difficulty are
located throughout Big Cypress, including 31 miles of the Florida Trail. Bear
Island is a great place to ride a bike and the Turner River Canoe Trail winds
through a variety of South Florida habitats.
For most, visiting Big Cypress is more pleasant in the winter when bugs
are fewer and both temperature and water levels are lower.
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