crooked creek chickee

For Floridians eager to delve into the untouched beauty of their state's natural landscapes, Crooked Creek Chickee offers an unparalleled backcountry camping experience within the vast Everglades National Park. Located near Everglades City, this distinctive elevated platform provides a truly remote and immersive encounter with Florida's iconic wetland wilderness. It's a destination that calls to those seeking tranquility, exceptional fishing, and up-close wildlife viewing, all from the unique vantage point of a traditional chickee hut.

A "chickee" is a type of shelter historically used by the Seminole and Miccosukee tribes, characterized by a raised floor, a thatched roof, and open sides. This design is perfectly suited for the watery environment of the Everglades, elevating campers above the marsh and providing a stable, dry platform for their tents. Crooked Creek Chickee, in particular, is renowned for its solid construction and a roof that stands up to heavy rain, ensuring a comfortable night's rest even in the famously humid Florida climate.

This is not a drive-up campground; accessibility is primarily by kayak or canoe, making the journey an integral part of the adventure. It's an opportunity to embrace self-sufficiency and the serene beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands region, a labyrinth of mangrove-fringed waterways and estuaries teeming with life. For those who yearn to truly disconnect and experience the raw, untamed heart of Florida, Crooked Creek Chickee is an ideal choice, promising unforgettable sunrises, abundant wildlife, and the profound peace that only true wilderness can offer.

The journey to Crooked Creek Chickee is a key part of the experience. Paddlers will navigate through intricate mangrove tunnels and expansive open bays, such as Lopez River and Sunday Bay, making it an ideal first-night camp for multi-day trips through the Ten Thousand Islands. The chickee is situated in a "No Wake" zone, indicating a calm water approach, which is beneficial for paddlers. However, due to tidal movements, especially a strong 3-4 knot current, it's crucial for campers to plan their paddle with the tides to ensure a manageable and safe journey.

Its remote location means that it is sheltered from all but the strongest breezes, providing a sense of seclusion. However, this also implies limited or no cell phone service, so thorough trip planning, including navigation tools and emergency protocols, is essential. The effort required to reach Crooked Creek Chickee is amply rewarded by the unparalleled solitude and immersion in Florida's unique coastal wilderness.

• Elevated Platform (Chickee): The primary "service" is the chickee itself – an elevated wooden platform with a sturdy roof. This structure provides a dry, stable surface above the water, crucial for camping in the wetlands. Reviewers praise the solid deck planks and the roof's ability to withstand heavy rain without leaking.

• Space for Multiple Tents: The chickee is spacious enough to accommodate several tents. It is a "double chickee," meaning it consists of two bookable sites, each capable of hosting a group of up to six people, though fitting two smaller tents or one large tent comfortably per side is often recommended. Note that freestanding tents are almost required, as stakes cannot be driven into the wooden platform.

• Hammock-Friendly Columns: The supporting columns of the chickee are noted to be the perfect width for hanging hammocks, offering an alternative sleeping option for campers who prefer it.

• Vault/Composting Toilet: A self-contained vault or composting toilet is typically located on a separate walkway between the two platforms, providing basic and environmentally responsible sanitation facilities.

• No Potable Water: It is essential for all campers to bring their own supply of potable water, as there is no fresh water source available at the chickee. This is a critical planning consideration for any backcountry trip in the Everglades.

• No Fires Allowed on Platform: Due to the wooden construction, no open fires (wood, charcoal) are permitted on the chickee platform. Campers should plan to use gas stoves or grills for cooking.

• Sweet Remote Spot: Crooked Creek Chickee is consistently described as a "sweet remote spot in the backcountry." Its isolation offers an unparalleled sense of peace and a true escape from modern distractions.

• Excellent Fishing Area: The surrounding waters are known for fantastic fishing. Visitors report seeing and catching tarpon, snook, and drum right from the chickee platform, making it a prime destination for anglers.

• Solid and Reliable Structure: The chickee itself is a highlight. Campers appreciate the solid deck planks and the reliable roof, which provides excellent shelter even during heavy rain, ensuring a comfortable and dry night.

• Unique Elevated Camping: Sleeping on an elevated platform over the water provides a unique and memorable camping experience, distinct from traditional ground camping. It offers a different perspective on the Everglades landscape.

• Abundant Wildlife: The location is superb for wildlife viewing. While mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in November, the chance to hear dolphins at night, spot curious sea turtles, and observe various bird species and fish makes for an incredibly rich natural encounter.

• Strategic Location for Paddling Trips: Positioned ideally between the Lopez River and Sunday Bay, and accessible from both Everglades City and Chokoloskee, the chickee is a perfect overnight stop for multi-day paddling adventures through the Ten Thousand Islands wilderness waterway.

• Stargazing Opportunities: Far from city lights, the Crooked Creek Chickee offers incredible opportunities for stargazing, with clear night skies showcasing the celestial canopy.

Address: 815 Oyster Bar Ln, Everglades City, FL 34139, USA (This address refers to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, which is the gateway for permits and information regarding backcountry camping in this area of the Everglades.)

For information regarding wilderness permits, reservations, park regulations, and current conditions, you should contact the Everglades National Park's official channels:

Everglades National Park Gulf Coast Visitor Center Phone: (239) 695-3311 (It is advisable to confirm current hours of operation and specific permit requirements before your trip.)

Permits for overnight camping at chickee sites like Crooked Creek are required and can often be reserved through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to secure your permit well in advance, especially during peak seasons, and to thoroughly review the Everglades National Park Wilderness Trip Planner for essential information on safety, tides, navigation, and what to bring. Always check for any alerts or closures from the National Park Service before embarking on your adventure.

Locals with a passion for paddling, fishing, and wildlife photography will find Crooked Creek Chickee particularly appealing. The journey by kayak or canoe through the winding waterways offers a profound sense of accomplishment and an intimate encounter with the diverse flora and fauna of the Ten Thousand Islands. The abundant fishing opportunities directly from the chickee are a major draw, allowing residents to enjoy a favorite pastime in a truly spectacular setting.

Furthermore, for those seeking genuine tranquility and a break from crowded tourist spots, the remote nature of Crooked Creek Chickee is a significant advantage. It provides a chance to unplug, enjoy unparalleled stargazing, and wake up to the sounds of the natural world. Embracing the minor challenges, such as bringing your own water and managing mosquitoes, becomes part of the rewarding experience, solidifying a deeper appreciation for Florida's wild spaces. It's a local adventure that promises unique memories and a profound sense of peace, making it an ideal choice for Floridians looking for a true wilderness retreat.

You can learn more about solo kayak camping and chickee huts in the Everglades by watching this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GH3dt2QLwTk).

crooked creek chickee

815 Oyster Bar Ln, Everglades City, FL 34139, USA