The freshwaters of the Big Cypress Swamp, essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades, support the rich marine estuaries along Florida's southwest coast. Conserving over 729,000 acres of this vast swamp, Big Cypress National Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to diverse wildlife, including the Endangered Florida panther.

Big Cypress is located along Tamiami Trail East and I-75 in southern Florida. The preserve can be accessed by driving from Miami and Naples. The preserve's two visitor centers are located along Tamiami Trail East.