With the continuation of the dry season in south Florida several closures persist within Big Cypress National Preserve. Zone 4 of the Stairsteps Unit located south the Loop Road continues to be closed to airboat access. This closure was implemented on February 15, and was scheduled to be lifted after 60-days on April 17, if conditions allowed. Since water levels remain low airboat access will remain closed until water levels rise to acceptable levels.

Additionally, due to low water levels the Turner River paddle craft route remains closed to access.

As of April 15 the majority of campgrounds within the preserve are closed for the summer season. Midway Campground and the loop in the Bear Island Campground will remain open throughout the summer. Campgrounds will reopen on August 15 of the year. For information on camping in the preserve, including information on making reservations, go to – http://www.nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm

Each year the preserve closes areas open to off-road vehicle (ORV) use for a 60-day period. The annual ORV 60-day closure for those areas of the preserve that allow for access with wheeled ORVs will start on June 1 and go through July 30 this year.

For more information on closures in the preserve go to – http://www.nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/closures.htm

Bob DeGross
Big Cypress National Preserve
Chief of Interpretation and Public Affairs
Bob DeGross
Big Cypress National Preserve
Chief of Interpretation and Public Affairs

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, FL 34141
239-695-1107 office; 239-293-3643 cell

“Through interpretation, understanding, through understanding, appreciation, through appreciation, protection.” – Freeman Tilden