Big Cypress National Preserve

South Florida Fire & Aviation will conduct a series of prescribed fire operations across Big Cypress National Preserve over the coming months, as weather conditions and other parameters permit. The planned treatment areas cover approximately 115,639 acres in three separate burn units, strategically placed throughout the preserve as part of a multi-year fuels treatment plan.

The first of many signs marking the Florida Wildlife Corridor was set in place on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2024, at the Fakachatchee Strand Preserve State Park. The sign designates an entrance to a Southwest Florida portion of the 18 million acres being preserved for animals to let people know they are also welcome to explore the growing state-long pathway

Collier fire fighters responded to a fire on the Kirby Storter boardwalk, one of the most popular visitor attractions in Big Cypress National Preserve.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has agreed to decide by June 1, 2025, whether to protect the imperiled ghost orchid. A news release from The Center for Biological Diversity said the USFWS agreement follows a lawsuit filed by the Center, The Institute for Regional Conservation, and the National Parks Conservation Association.

Big Cypress National Preserve has issued a temporary closure to promote visitor safety during prescribed fire activity beginning Friday, April 5, 2024. Closure includes all areas and trails within the treatment perimeter, trails on the perimeter of the unit will remain open for use. Please refer to the full list of closures. During the closure all recreational use including off-road vehicles, hiking, camping, hunting and commercial activities are prohibited in the designated areas.

The Big Cypress National Preserve will temporarily close an area in the northeast corner of the preserve for prescribed fire activity.

Big Cypress National Preserve has issued a temporary closure to promote visitor safety during prescribed fire activity beginning Monday. Closure includes all areas and trails within the treatment perimeter including Concho Billie Trail North Entrance. Trails on the perimeter of the unit will remain open for use.

Big Cypress National Preserve has issued a temporary closure to promote visitor safety during prescribed fire activity beginning Tuesday, February 27, 2024. During the closure all recreational use including off-road vehicles, hiking, camping, hunting and commercial activities are prohibited in the designated areas.