Burns Lake Campground

For Floridians seeking an authentic outdoor experience deep within the heart of the Everglades, Burns Lake Campground in Ochopee offers a unique and engaging opportunity. Tucked away within the vast expanse of the Big Cypress National Preserve, this campground provides a simpler, more direct connection with Florida's unparalleled natural environment. If you're looking for a clean, well-maintained spot to set up camp and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the preserve, Burns Lake Campground is a destination that promises a memorable adventure for both tent and RV campers.

Burns Lake Campground is strategically located at 18495 Burns Rd, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA. This address places it squarely within the Big Cypress National Preserve, making it an ideal base for exploring this incredible ecosystem. Ochopee itself is a small, unique community that serves as a gateway to the Everglades and Big Cypress, famous for its rustic charm and the smallest post office in the United States.

Access to the campground is straightforward via Burns Road, which branches off the Tamiami Trail (US-41), the main artery running through the Preserve. While the setting is remote, the drive is scenic and well-paved, making it accessible for a variety of vehicles, from cars pulling pop-up campers to larger RVs. Its location offers a genuine sense of being "away from it all," allowing visitors to fully appreciate the wild beauty of South Florida. For those who enjoy exploring by car, the campground's proximity to other points of interest within Big Cypress, such as hiking trails, boardwalks, and visitor centers, makes it a convenient central hub for your adventures.

Burns Lake Campground is known for being a "nice, simple campground" that provides essential services for a comfortable stay while maintaining its natural integrity.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers clearly marked sites suitable for both tent and RV camping, providing spaces to set up your gear.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available, which is a crucial amenity, especially in such a remote setting, ensuring campers have a clean water source.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides restroom facilities, which are regularly maintained to ensure cleanliness for all visitors.
• Trash Receptacles: Designated trash receptacles are available, promoting a clean environment and encouraging campers to properly dispose of their waste.
• Lake Access: As the name suggests, the campground is located on Burns Lake, providing direct access for fishing and nature observation.
• No Electrical Hookups for RVs: It's important to note for RV campers that there are no electrical hookups available at Burns Lake Campground. This contributes to its primitive feel and is a key consideration for those relying on power. Campers needing electricity are often advised to seek campgrounds like Monument, just a few miles east on US-41.

Burns Lake Campground stands out for its immersive natural experience and well-maintained facilities, offering several appealing features:

• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness and overall good maintenance, ensuring a pleasant and tidy environment for all.
• Proximity to Big Cypress National Preserve: Being directly within the Preserve means immediate access to its unique flora and fauna, including cypress swamps, pine forests, and diverse wildlife.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The lake itself is home to alligators, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife observation right from your campsite. Birdwatchers will also delight in the diverse avian species present in the area.
• Quiet and Primitive Atmosphere: Despite occasional issues with generator noise, the campground generally offers a more primitive and quiet camping experience compared to more commercialized sites, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
• Scenic Lake Views: While RV spaces might be oriented away from the water, tent campers and those exploring the common areas can enjoy the tranquil views of Burns Lake.
• Accessible for Both Tents and RVs: The campground accommodates both tent campers and RVs, offering a versatile option for different camping preferences, though RV users should be mindful of the lack of electricity.
• Ideal for Stargazing: Far from city lights, the Big Cypress National Preserve offers exceptionally dark skies, making Burns Lake Campground an excellent spot for stargazing and observing constellations.
• Gateway to Outdoor Activities: From the campground, you have easy access to various outdoor activities within Big Cypress, including hiking, birdwatching, kayaking (if you bring your own), and photography.

Address: 18495 Burns Rd, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA

Phone: (239) 695-2000

Mobile Phone: +1 239-695-2000

For Floridians, Burns Lake Campground offers an invaluable opportunity to connect with the state's most iconic natural landscape – the Everglades – without having to travel extensively. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects. Firstly, it provides an authentic, no-frills camping experience that allows for true immersion in the wilderness. If you’re a local seeking a break from the usual Florida attractions and yearn for the sounds of nature, this is your spot.

While some reviews mention challenges with noise from RV generators, particularly for tent campers, this feedback highlights an important distinction: Burns Lake is a place where primitive camping thrives. If you cherish the quiet of the outdoors and prefer the simplicity of tent camping, you might find the early morning and late-night sounds of generators disruptive. However, for those RVers who can manage without constant power, or for tent campers who come prepared for a truly rustic experience, the benefits far outweigh this potential drawback. The presence of alligators in the lake underscores the wild and untamed nature of the environment, a unique Floridian experience you won't find just anywhere.

It’s also important to note the "not dog walking friendly" aspect, which speaks to the sensitive ecosystem and wildlife protection efforts within the Preserve – a crucial detail for pet owners planning a visit. Ultimately, Burns Lake Campground is a sanctuary for those who appreciate clean, simple facilities and a direct connection to the raw beauty of the Everglades. It's a place where you can truly escape, observe unique wildlife, and create lasting memories right in your own backyard, making it an ideal local camping destination for true Florida adventurers.

Burns Lake Campground

18495 Burns Rd, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA