# Big Cypress National Preserve

**Location:** Ochopee, FL | **Difficulty:** Hard | **Length:** 40+ miles

**GPS:** 25.8512, -81.0812

**Vehicle requirements:** 4WD with low range and rear locker, 33"+ mud-terrain tires, 2–3" lift, rock sliders, and recovery gear required.

**Best season:** December - April

Off-road trails through Florida's subtropical wilderness with water crossings up to 3 feet deep. Cypress swamps, saw grass prairies, and Florida panther habitat create the most unique off-road experience east of the Mississippi.

**Region:** Southeast • **Trail type:** Hidden Gem • **Rating:** 4.5/5 • **Permit required**

**Highlights:** Water crossings, Cypress swamps, Florida panther, Subtropical wilderness, Alligator viewing

**Nearby campgrounds:**
- [Monument Lake (Ochopee, Florida)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/florida/monument-lake)
- [Midway Campground (Ochopee, Florida)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/florida/midway-campground)
- [Burns Lake (ochopee, Florida)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/florida/burns-lake)
- [Mitchell's Landing (Ochopee, Florida)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/florida/mitchell-s-landing)
- [Pinecrest (Ochopee, Florida)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/florida/pinecrest)

Canonical page: https://4x4playground.com/overlanding/trails/big-cypress