Mitchell Landing Campground

Hey there, fellow Floridians! Are you ready to trade the urban jungle for the authentic wilderness of our incredible state? If you're dreaming of a true escape, a place where the sounds of nature replace city noise, and the stars shine brighter than you've ever seen them, then Mitchell Landing Campground in Ochopee, Florida, is calling your name. This isn't your typical amenity-rich RV resort; it’s a primitive campground designed for those who truly want to disconnect, explore, and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Big Cypress National Preserve.

Mitchell Landing Campground offers a unique opportunity to experience the untamed heart of South Florida. It’s a secluded sanctuary, perfect for seasoned campers and adventurous spirits alike who appreciate privacy and a genuine connection to the outdoors. In this guide, we'll dive into what makes Mitchell Landing a standout destination for locals looking for an unforgettable camping experience, from its location within a renowned national preserve to its essential amenities and the unparalleled natural features that surround it. Get ready to discover a place where you can truly unwind and reconnect with the wild side of Florida.

Mitchell Landing Campground is nestled on an Unnamed Road in Ochopee, FL 34141, USA, deep within the expansive Big Cypress National Preserve. This prime location places it right in the heart of one of Florida's most significant natural treasures, a vast freshwater swamp essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades. For Floridians looking to explore the state's diverse ecosystems, this campground offers an unparalleled base.

Access to Mitchell Landing is along a secondary gravel road, which adds to its secluded charm. While it feels wonderfully isolated, it’s not entirely cut off. The campground is directly off the popular Loop Road scenic drive, a well-known route that offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic beauty. For those coming from Naples, you would follow US HWY 41 to Loop Road, typically around Mile Marker 40. The east entrance to Loop Road is often recommended for easier access, especially for larger vehicles. From Miami, the route is similar, heading west on US HWY 41 before turning onto Loop Road. Once on Loop Road, it's approximately seven miles before you turn left into the campground.

It’s important to note that cell phone service can be limited in this area, which for many, is part of the appeal of disconnecting. However, visitors often report being able to get a signal. The isolated nature means you’re truly "getting away from the city and disconnect for a while," as one reviewer mentioned. Despite its primitive nature, its location offers remarkable proximity to various outdoor activities within Big Cypress National Preserve, including off-road vehicle trails, hiking, and fishing. The Shark Valley Visitor Center, part of Everglades National Park, is also just about 11 miles east, making it a convenient spot for further exploration of our incredible natural heritage.

• Primitive Campsites:

  Mitchell Landing is a primitive campground, offering 12 designated campsites suitable for tent, RV, and travel trailer camping. These sites generally have gravel or grass pads, providing a natural setting for your stay.

• Vault Toilets:

  The campground provides vault toilets for guest use. While some reviewers note they can be "gross and full of flies" at times, others find them "clean enough" for a pit toilet. They are available year-round.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings:

  Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing you to enjoy outdoor meals and classic campfire experiences. Guests are encouraged to bring their own firewood.

• Lantern Posts and BBQ Pits:

  Individual campsites also feature a lantern post and a BBQ pit with a "grill," adding convenience for cooking and nighttime ambiance.

• Spacious Sites:

  Campsites are generally spacious, allowing ample room for setting up larger tents, such as a ten-person tent, as noted by one happy camper. Some sites are "tucked back in the woods for extra privacy," while others are more open.

• Shared Food Storage (Bear Lockers):

  For the safety of both campers and wildlife, bear lockers are available at the campsites for secure food storage, especially crucial in a preserve known for its diverse fauna, including panthers.

• Trash/Recycling Collection:

  Trash and recycling services are available year-round, helping campers maintain a clean environment and minimize their impact on the preserve.

• No Potable Water On-Site:

  It is crucial to note that there is no running water or potable water available at Mitchell Landing Campground. Visitors must bring their own water supply. The closest potable water and a dump station are typically at Midway Campground, about 30 minutes away.

• Reservation System:

  While some sites may be available first-come, first-served, it is highly recommended to reserve ahead of time, especially if you desire a spot with more privacy. Reservations can be made online through recreation.gov or by phone.

• Campground Hosts (Seasonal):

  Some reviews mention attentive campground hosts who check on campers and ensure things run smoothly, though the presence may be seasonal or vary.

• True Seclusion and Privacy:

  Mitchell Landing Campground is widely praised for its quiet and secluded atmosphere. Many sites, particularly those "tucked back in the woods," offer significant privacy, making it an ideal spot for those genuinely looking to get away from it all and disconnect from city life.

• Gateway to Big Cypress National Preserve:

  Its location within Big Cypress National Preserve is a major highlight. Campers have direct access to the preserve’s vast wilderness, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing (including alligators, bobcats, and various bird species), and immersing oneself in the unique cypress swamp ecosystem.

• Excellent for Off-Road Vehicle and Airboat Enthusiasts:

  The campground is a popular staging area for airboat users and those with off-road vehicle (ORV) permits, as it provides direct access to airboat trails within the Stairstep backcountry unit – the only unit open to airboats in the park. This is a significant draw for adventure seekers.

• Proximity to Loop Road Scenic Drive:

  Being directly off the scenic Loop Road offers an easy way to explore the surrounding natural beauty. Visitors can ride bikes, drive, and observe abundant wildlife, adding another layer to the camping experience.

• Dry Season Sweet Spot:

  As noted by reviewers, it's particularly enjoyable "during dry season," when the bug activity is typically lower, making for a more comfortable outdoor experience.

• Basic but Functional Amenities:

  While primitive, the provision of picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and BBQ pits ensures that campers have the essential amenities for a comfortable and authentic camping adventure.

• Ability to Host Large Tents:

  The spacious nature of the sites means it can accommodate larger groups and tents, making it suitable for family and friend getaways.

• Opportunity for True Disconnection:

  With limited cell service and a remote feel, the campground truly encourages a digital detox, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature and enjoy uninterrupted quality time.

Address: Unnamed Road, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA

For campground inquiries, it's recommended to call the Big Cypress National Preserve main line or check their Recreation.gov page for the most up-to-date information on reservations and conditions.

Big Cypress National Preserve phone for general inquiries: (239) 695-2000

Reservations for camping can be made through www.recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.

For Floridians, Mitchell Landing Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly experience the wild heart of our own backyard. We live in a state renowned for its unique ecosystems, and this campground places you directly within the captivating Big Cypress National Preserve, a vital part of the greater Everglades. For those of us seeking a genuine escape from the daily grind and the sprawling urban areas, Mitchell Landing provides that rare sense of being "isolated from everything" while still being accessible for a weekend trip or a longer adventure.

This campground is perfect for locals who appreciate primitive camping and understand the beauty of disconnecting. It's not about luxury hookups or endless amenities; it's about the rustle of the cypress trees, the distant calls of wildlife, and the brilliant display of stars unmarred by city lights. The fact that it’s known for "awesome fishing" and provides direct access to off-road vehicle and airboat trails means that our local outdoor enthusiasts have a prime base for their adventures, exploring parts of Florida that many tourists might miss.

The emphasis on privacy, with sites "tucked back in the woods," caters to the desire for a truly peaceful retreat. And while the basic nature of the facilities, like the vault toilets and the lack of potable water, requires a bit more preparation, it's a small trade-off for the unparalleled solitude and immersion in nature that Mitchell Landing provides. For us Floridians, it’s a chance to reconnect with the natural heritage of our state, to teach our children about the Everglades firsthand, or simply to find a quiet spot to recharge. It's a reminder of the wild beauty that exists just beyond our city limits, waiting to be explored and appreciated. So, pack your gear, bring your water, and get ready for a truly authentic Florida camping experience at Mitchell Landing Campground.

Mitchell Landing Campground

Unnamed Road, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA