Discover Big Cypress

Big Cypress National Preserve, the nation's first national preserve, offers over 729,000 acres of pristine wilderness in Southwest Florida. This vital piece of protected land draws over a million visitors each year, protecting crucial habitats for endangered species and showcasing the rich ecological and cultural heritage of the region. Scott Pardue, Chief of Interpretation and Public Information Officer at Big Cypress shares insights into the preserve’s unique qualities, upcoming events, and the importance of education in the continued effort to sustain local wildlife.

Established in 1974, Big Cypress represents a historic compromise among various factions in Florida to protect the integral and valued habitat among residents and species alike. Sportsmen, tribe representatives, and conservationists united to save Big Cypress from becoming the world’s largest airport- marking the genesis of a land mass that merits recreation as much as the safety of its inhabitants.

Scenic as it is, Big Cypress allocates exceptionally more than recreational opportunities. It’s a vital lifeline for the diverse species that rely on its unique environments, as well as for the people who benefit from its water and natural resources. Lodging five distinct ecosystems within its boundaries, Big Cypress is home to a remarkable range of flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world, including rare orchids and the endangered Florida panther. “The size of Big Cypress not only provides land for wildlife to maneuver and roam, but it serves as a buffer to encroachment on the Everglades,” said Pardue. The body of freshwater that filters through the preserve and surrounding areas ensures a stable, clean water supply for the region, supporting agriculture, industry, and everyday life for Florida residents.

Education is paramount to the preserve’s mission, with the Swamp Water and Me Program (SWAMP) reaching over 3,000 sixth graders annually. “The Collier County Public School System has been the primary recipient of SWAMP for over 20 years,” notes Pardue, “There’s now a second generation of kids whose parents also came out when they were students.” He accounts much of the success to Lisa Andrews, one of Big Cypress’ lead educators who is responsible for the kids’ first experience in the swamp. “It’s transformative for them - we have brand new stewards of the land that are only in sixth grade,” said Pardue.

“One measurement of success is how many kids we are reaching, but it boils down to intangible takeaways that we really can’t measure,” said Pardue when considering the significance of SWAMP. He recalls that many of the program recipients have become schoolteachers and found an appreciation for national parks simply because of their educational experience at Big Cypress. “We know the benefits are far-reaching. It must lead to more environmentally conscious adults,” said Pardue.

In addition to SWAMP, Big Cypress offers informative public programs that are designed for families and range in subjects from ecology to cultural history. Intended to engage a variety of audiences and age groups, each ranger-led program has its own theme as well as a universal focus on conservation. “There’s so many stories to be told about Big Cypress - anyone is going to find a program that interests them,” said Pardue. There’s a balance between programming, education, and preservation, according to Pardue. “We need to have educated users,” he said. “Some of the best stewards of the land are the people who come out to Big Cypress to use it - they’re not out here to damage the resource they love so much.” He claims that future generations will protect and manage Big Cypress if they have a positive experience in the preserve. For Pardue, education is of primary importance but joy is a close second. He explains that the inspirational experience of witnessing an alligator sunbathing on the bank or bicycling through a scenic black bear habitat will foster a connection to the environment.

Luckily, Big Cypress is holding many events in the near future for guests to embody that connection. Their public programs start on November 23rd, offering completely free activities such as wet walks, canoe trips, and bike rides. “The biggest thing I like to brag about is the quality of these programs,” said Pardue. “Guests will have a guide taking them through every tour and they don’t even have to provide their own bicycle or kayak.”

On December 7th, Big Cypress welcomes visitors to celebrate their 50th anniversary, featuring guest speakers, local cuisine, and musical performances by the nationally acclaimed Walter Parks and Swamp Cabbage band. At the Swamp Heritage Festival, attendees can expect the sound of swamp rock and bluegrass tunes, presentations by a representative of the Miccosukee tribe, and informative experiences on a plethora of historic topics. “We had nearly 1,000 people come last year, and we expect an even bigger crowd this year!” said Pardue.

From December through February, the Night Sky Programswill resume once a month at Big Cypress. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, the preserve provides exceptional stargazing opportunities and ranger-led presentations. “You’ll see some of the best views of the night sky possible in South Florida,” said Pardue. Local astronomy clubs often join, sharing telescopes for unforgettable perspectives of our galaxy.

Big Cypress is also making the trek to Naples on November 15th for their SWAMP Education Fundraiser at Ankorlab Brewery. The casual event will donate a portion of the proceeds to the educational program. “It’s a great opportunity for people to come out and meet people from Big Cypress and find out how to get involved through our Friends Group, the Alliance, or becoming a volunteer,” said Pardue. Additionally, the Wine and Wildlife Fundraiser will be taking place in Naples on February 11thof next year. “The majority of funds that SWAMP runs on comes from this event,” Pardue explains. The formal fundraiser holds dinner, lectures, entertainment, and auctions. “It is amazing some of the items that come across this live auction - all kinds of high-end trips, products, and sporting events.”

As green spaces dwindle and urban development expands, Big Cypress National Preserve presents a prehistoric perspective of Florida’s distinctive landscape. Not only does it stand as a testament to what can be protected when communities unite in the name of conservation, but it also stands as a sanctuary for species like the endangered Florida panther. “Big Cypress provides a chance for people to connect with nature in ways that are becoming increasingly rare,” said Pardue, underscoring the preserve’s role as both a natural buffer and an educational platform for generations to come.

Pardue envisions Big Cypress as a place where people can rediscover the beauty and tranquility of nature, experience the region’s cultural heritage, and gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystems that sustain them. “I think a lot of people in Naples don’t even realize what’s available to them here. Our ranger-led programs are a great learning opportunity to come out and refresh- slow down and not worry about the trials and tribulations of the world.”

By promoting nature-human connection through events, educational programs, and family-friendly activities, Big Cypress inspires a future generation of stewards who will continue to protect and cherish these lands. To learn more about Big Cypress National Preserve, sign up for ranger-led programs, and view their calendar of events, visit nps.gov/bicy/index.htm or call 239-695-4758.