Welcome to the Park of the Week Newsletter for October 12, 2023. This week we’re featuring a park so unique that it created its own federal designation.
Big Cypress National Preserve
Location
South Florida, United States. West of Miami, north of the Everglades
Claim to fame
In the 1960s, massive construction plans in the cypress swamps north of Everglades National Park set off alarm bells for hunters, private landowners, environmentalists, Seminoles, Miccosukees, and several other interested parties. By combining forces, these interest groups won out against the impending land development.
To appease so many groups, all with different claims on the land, a new kind of national designation for public lands was created. The United States declared Big Cypress its first national preserve on October 11, 1974.
Big Cypress National Preserve allows hunting, off-road vehicles, oil and gas extraction, private land ownership, and other land uses not typically allowed in a US national park, all while protecting the swamp’s valuable freshwater and biodiversity.
The preserve designation also ensures that the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribes can continue their traditional use of the preserve, protecting their legacy and cultural heritage.
Reason to visit
At over 720,000 acres, Big Cypress is a massive patch of undeveloped wilderness not far from the urban jungle of Miami. There are countless recreational opportunities here for those eager to leave the confines of the city, like hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, and boating.
And keep an eye out for wildlife. Alligators and countless water-loving birds can be spotted at the Oasis Visitor Center boardwalk or by driving the preserve’s mostly unpaved Loop Road.
Wild Fact
Big Cypress National Preserve is the largest contiguous habitat for the Florida panther, an endangered species. The preserve and its partners monitor and conduct research on these charismatic cats, and if you are fortunate you may just spot a panther paw-print during your visit.
Want to learn more about Big Cypress National Preserve? Visit the park’s website here.
Thanks for reading. Each Thursday, The Ranger Desk sends out an image and description of a unique natural or cultural treasure like the one above. Learn new things, explore special places, and find your inspiration: sign up for the free newsletter today.