Bear Island Overview

Bear Island Campground has 40 primitive campsites and is located within the backcountry of Big Cypress National Preserve. Campsites are for pickup camper and tent camping only.

The campground is generally open year round for sites 1-12, and from Aug 15 – Apr 15 for sites 13-40.  Amenities include vault toilets and shared food storage lockers (bear box). Drinking water and trash collection are not provided. Cell service is fair in the area. Campsites are for pickup camper and/or tent camping only. No trailers or RVs are allowed in the backcountry. Each campsite also has a table, fire ring and grill.

Other campgrounds in the area include Gator Head and Pink Jeep.

Bear Island Campground – Area Recreation & Activities

Outdoor recreation in the area includes hiking, hunting, fishing, biking, picnicking, wildlife viewing and OHV trail riding (permitted vehicles only).

The Bear Island Unit offers 20 plus miles of backcountry trails. Everglades City is located 30 miles south and provides dining, sight-seeing, and historical sites.  Everglades National Park can also be accessed via Everglades City. The Reed Visitor Center is also located 30 miles to the south.

Make a Reservation for Bear Island

Amenities

• Cell Service Fair
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Food Storage Locker
• Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
• Grills
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables

Activities

• ATV
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Hunting
• Mountain Biking
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Stargazing
• Wildlife Viewing