Big Cypress
Explore Big Cypress National Preserve with free ranger-led programs designed for all ages. From guided swamp walks to canoe tours and boardwalk talks, there’s something for everyone. Some activities require reservations, so plan ahead and join us for an unforgettable experience in the preserve!
Wet Walk into the Cypress Swamp
Saturdays & Sundays at 1:30 pm, Monday through Friday at 9:30 am (all programs 2 hours)
Join us Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 pm, and Monday through Friday at 9:30 am for a 2-hour adventure into the swamp guided by a ranger! Wade through the crystal-clear waters of a cypress swamp while you immerse yourself in the wonders of Big Cypress. Wear long pants and closed-toed shoes that tie (preferably old sneakers) and bring a change of clothes. Locations and difficulty vary by day; family-friendly hikes are scheduled on Sundays and challenging hikes on Saturdays. Call the Visitor Center for more information and age recommendations. Easy and moderate walks are recommended for adults of all ages and children 5 and up or those who can comfortably ride in a hands-free backpack carrier. Children must be at least 48 inches tall to go on the Saturday hike.
Reservations required. Call the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center at (239) 695-1168 to reserve your spot and for more information.
Boardwalk Chats at Nathaniel P. Reed and Oasis Visitor Centers
Daily at 1:30 and 3:30 pm (20 minutes), all ages; accessible walk
Join us to learn all about Big Cypress National Preserve with a fun and informative 20-minute ranger program exploring the natural and cultural history of southwest Florida. Meet your ranger at the boardwalk behind the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center or by the flag in front of the Oasis Visitor Center. This program is open to all ages, accessible, and great for Junior Rangers!
No reservations are required.
Canoe Programs
Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays starting at 9:30 am, children ages 5+
Experience the preserve’s waterways and join us on a ranger-led kayak/canoe tour through Turner River on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. Float through cypress and mangroves on an interpretive tour given by rangers. Canoes, paddles, and life jackets are provided. Basic canoe and paddle experience required. Recommended for adults and children 5 and up (must provide an approved life jacket if under 50 lbs).
Reservations required. Call the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center at (239) 695-1168 to reserve your spot.
Bike Programs
Saturdays and Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm (4 hours)
Enjoy the scenic route and explore the preserve by bicycle! Join a ranger on Saturdays and Wednesdays at 10 am to experience and learn about the plant and wildlife found within the preserve. Take stops and observe everything at a slower pace! Bring binoculars as there is plenty of birding found in Bear Island. Also, remember to bring water and comfortable shoes, as well as a snack or lunch. Bikes and helmets are provided. This program is recommended for adults who are comfortable riding 14 miles on flat dirt roads.
Reservations required. Call the Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center at (239) 695-1168 to reserve your spot.
Ranger Illustrated Program & Talk at Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center
Thursday through Tuesday at 2 pm (40 minutes), all ages; accessible
Dive into the wonders of Big Cypress Preserve with a Park Ranger as they explore various topics on the ecology, history, and culture of the Big Cypress Swamp. Topics vary by date. All ages and abilities are welcome!
Campground Chats
Thursday through Sunday; times vary (30 minutes), all ages; accessible
Bring your camp chair and join us for an informal, fun campground or star talk on Thursdays and Saturdays at Monument Campground and Fridays and Sundays at Midway Campground. See campground sites or visitor centers for program information, including start times and topics.
All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend!
We look forward to seeing you in the swamp!
Astronomy Programs
March 29th @ 8:30 pm
View one of the darkest night skies in the eastern United States by attending a ranger-led astronomy program at Big Cypress National Preserve this winter!
Presentations will include constellation tours and telescope viewing (weather permitting) of astronomical objects including stars, star clusters, planets, nebulae, and galaxies.
More Adventure Info: nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/ranger-led-activities.htm
