The Big Cypress Swamp of southwest Florida is basically a flat, gently sloping limestone plain. During the rainy season (June through September), water flows slowly southward over this plain into the mangrove swamps bordering the Gulf of Mexico. Water also flows below ground through the porous underlying limestone.

In places, limestone has dissolved, forming elongated sloughs or channels, which have accumulated deep organic soils. These channels or sloughs have been colonized by cypress and other trees, creating swamp forests that stand out on the horizon in contrast to the open prairies and pinelands that occupy the sterile veneer of marl soil, which is on top of the remaining limestone. The local term for these linear swamps is "strand."

Fakahatchee Strand is a 75,000-acre wilderness area. Limited access, limited facilities. The wilderness character of the area and the diverse plant and animal life found within the Fakahatchee Strand are what attracts visitors that are seeking an out of the way, beyond the usual type of outdoor experience. Along W. J. Janes Scenic drive are located several old logging roads which visitors are welcome to walk on. Much of the areas natural attractions can be seen along these roads. The Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk located along US 41 is popular with visitors who aren't as adventurous about getting into the wilderness. It offers a half-mile long boardwalk, with interpretive signage, that goes into an original growth cypress forest. Some of the Cypress tress in this area are 6 feet in diameter and 100 feet tall.

Fakahatchee Strand does not have a visitor center, picnic areas, camping or concession facilities. A small map and brochures are available at the Copeland administrative office, just outside near the parking lot, and also at the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk. The park does offer guided swampwalks November through February, and guided canoe trips will be offered this season. There are approximately 60 miles of hiking opportunities within the Fakahatchee Strand. A brochure specific to these trails will be available in the near future. Information requests are received and returned by telephone, email, and regular mail. Those interested should call the park office at 239/695-4593. Leave a message if necessary. Your call will be returned. Office hours are 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday.

Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is located on Janes Memorial Scenic Drive, just west of Copeland on S.R. 29.

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park P.O. Box 548 Copeland, Florida 33926 Phone: 239-695-4593 Fax: Contact Park for Number Park Manager: Greg Toppin