Midway Campground

Welcome to Midway Campground, a well-situated and highly regarded camping destination nestled in the expansive Big Cypress National Preserve, right in the heart of Florida's iconic Everglades, near Ochopee. For locals across the Sunshine State seeking a tranquil base camp to explore this unique ecosystem, a peaceful spot to unwind, or a convenient stop between South Florida's major cities, Midway Campground offers an excellent blend of accessibility and natural immersion. This isn't a primitive, off-grid site, but rather a functional and friendly campground designed for those who appreciate essential amenities alongside profound natural beauty.

Midway Campground serves as an ideal stepping stone into the vast wilderness of Big Cypress, providing a comfortable spot to rest and rejuvenate. While it offers electric hookups for RVs and clean flush toilets, it’s worth noting that dedicated showers are not available on-site; however, as seasoned campers will tell you, the excellent facilities at the nearby Monument Lake Campground are a convenient and highly rated alternative. Despite some areas having limited cell service, the overall experience is one of peace and quiet under "beautiful night skies." If your ideal getaway involves enjoying spacious sites, friendly hosts, abundant wildlife viewing, and being perfectly positioned to explore the wonders of the Everglades, then Midway Campground is a place where many Florida locals find themselves returning time and time again.

Midway Campground is conveniently located at 52870 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA. This address places it directly on Tamiami Trail (US-41), the main scenic highway that traverses the Big Cypress National Preserve. Its location is truly "midway" between Naples and Miami, making it a perfectly strategic spot for travelers exploring South Florida or needing a peaceful resting point during a longer journey.

Accessibility to Midway Campground is straightforward, as it sits directly off a major paved road. This ease of access makes it highly convenient for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers, eliminating the need to navigate long, unpaved or challenging back roads. Its direct highway frontage also means it's easy to locate and reach. While the campground offers a sense of being immersed in the Everglades, the proximity to Tamiami Trail provides quick access to nearby visitor centers and attractions within the Preserve, such as the Oasis Visitor Center and Miccosukee Cultural Center. Despite this accessibility, the campground maintains a remarkably peaceful atmosphere. As with most remote natural areas, public transportation options are not available, so private vehicles are essential for reaching Midway Campground and exploring the surrounding Big Cypress National Preserve.

Midway Campground provides a valuable set of services and facilities, catering primarily to RV and tent campers seeking a comfortable base within the Big Cypress National Preserve.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: A significant service is the provision of 26 RV campsites, all equipped with electric hookups (30-amp and 50-amp available). This is a crucial amenity, especially in the Florida heat, allowing RVs to run air conditioning and other appliances. Each RV site also includes a picnic table and a hibachi-style grill.

• Tent-Only Campsites: In addition to RV sites, there are 10 dedicated tent-only campsites, providing options for traditional tent campers who prefer a more primitive setup but still benefit from shared facilities.

• Flush Toilets/Restrooms: The campground features clean and well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets. While there are no showers directly on-site, the availability of modern flush toilets is a significant convenience.

• Potable Water and Dump Station: Potable water is available at a central location, typically near the dump station, for refilling RV tanks or collecting drinking water. A sanitary dump station is also provided, offering a convenient service for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.

• Friendly and Helpful Hosts: Multiple reviews highlight the presence of "kind and friendly" campground hosts who are also "very helpful." This on-site assistance can greatly enhance the camping experience, offering local insights and support.

• Access to Nearby Showers (Monument Lake Campground): Although Midway Campground does not have its own showers, campers are permitted to use the shower facilities at the nearby Monument Lake Campground, which is noted for having "nice big clean showers with ample hot water." This cooperative arrangement provides a vital amenity.

Midway Campground is celebrated for several key features and highlights that make it a standout choice for those looking to experience the Florida Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve.

• Central Location in Big Cypress National Preserve: Its "midway" position on Tamiami Trail makes it an excellent base camp for exploring the preserve. It's close to various boardwalks, visitor centers (like Oasis Visitor Center), and other attractions, allowing for convenient day trips into the Everglades.

• Spacious and Well-Maintained Sites: Campers frequently praise the campground for having "good size sites" that are "very peaceful." The overall area is described as "well kept" and "clean," contributing to a pleasant and comfortable stay.

• Beautiful Night Skies: Away from significant light pollution, Midway Campground offers "beautiful night skies." This is a major highlight for stargazers and photographers, providing an opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Milky Way.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being in the Everglades, the campground offers excellent chances to spot native wildlife. Campers might see alligators in the central pond, various bird species, and potentially other animals characteristic of the preserve.

• Reliable Cell Service (for some carriers): While one review notes "very limited cell service," another specifically mentions "awesome cell signal (Verizon)." This inconsistency suggests that while it's not universally strong, certain carriers or specific spots might offer connectivity, which can be a valuable feature for many campers.

• Year-Round Operation: Midway Campground is one of the few campgrounds in Big Cypress National Preserve that remains open year-round, offering flexibility for planning visits in any season.

• Electric Hookups for RVs: This is a significant advantage for RV campers, providing essential power for air conditioning (crucial in Florida's climate), lighting, and other appliances, which isn't always available at primitive sites.

For reservations, current fees, and the most up-to-date information regarding Midway Campground, it is best to use the provided contact details or the official booking platform. Midway Campground is managed by the U.S. National Park Service within Big Cypress National Preserve.

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is a general reservation line for federal campgrounds, Recreation.gov)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

Address: 52870 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA

For specific campground inquiries, a direct number for the Big Cypress National Preserve ranger station is often useful: (239) 695-2000. Reservations for individual sites can typically be made via Recreation.gov. It's always advisable to check for any alerts or seasonal closures on the Big Cypress National Preserve website before your trip.

Midway Campground is an excellent and highly suitable choice for Florida locals who are eager to experience the unique wonders of the Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve. Its strategic location on Tamiami Trail makes it an easily accessible "midway" point, whether planning a weekend getaway or a longer exploration of South Florida. For Floridians, it offers a perfect blend of essential amenities like electric hookups for RVs and clean flush toilets, while still providing an immersive natural experience in one of the state's most iconic landscapes.

The "peaceful" atmosphere and "beautiful night skies" cater to those seeking a serene escape from the urban grind, allowing for true relaxation and stargazing. While there are no showers directly on-site, the convenient arrangement to use facilities at nearby Monument Lake Campground is a minor trade-off for the overall quality of the stay. For locals interested in wildlife viewing, hiking, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Everglades, Midway Campground serves as an ideal and welcoming base. Its consistent positive reviews from fellow campers underscore its value as a well-kept, friendly, and perfectly located spot for your next Florida adventure.

Midway Campground

52870 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA