View of Deep Lake in the Deep Lake Backcountry Unit, Big Cypress National Preserve
See the Backcountry web page for information on the other six backcountry units at Big Cypress National Preserve.
The Deep Lake Backcountry Unit is bounded by Highway 29 to the west, I-75 to the north, Turner River Road to the east, and Upper and Lower Wagonwheel Roads to the south.
Big Cypress Backcountry Zone Map (click to enlarge)
There is no vehicle access into the Deep Lake unit and only two established hiking trails penetrate into the interior, the Fire Prairie Trail and the Deep Lake Trail. Hikers are free to venture off-trail when the terrain permits. The entire park is flat and there are plenty of open areas. However, hike with caution because there are poisonous snakes and sharp vegetation in the backcountry. I heard a rattlesnake in the tall grass while walking on an established trail, but didn’t stick around long enough to see it.
Permits are no longer required to hike or bike in the backcountry of Big Cypress National Preserve. However, be sure to let somebody know of your plans and who to notify (a Park Ranger) should you not return as scheduled.
Backcountry camping is allowed anywhere in the Deep Lake unit provided that you pitch your tent at least a half mile from any developed areas such as roads, private homes, and established campgrounds. The best point of entry is the Fire Prairie Trail where most of the terrain is open. As with hiking and biking, no permit is needed, but do let somebody know of your plans.
As for the dirt roads that pass through the area, there is no reason whatsoever for a tourist to travel on the Upper Wagonwheel Road, the Lower Wagonwheel Road, or Birdon Road. There are no trails, campgrounds, or any other attractions on these roads. All dirt roads in the park are extremely dusty due to being made of crushed limestone, which is essentially chalk. The interiors of convertibles and other soft top vehicles will be inundated with dust, and though enclosed vehicles will fare much better, they will still need a car wash afterwards. Travel on the park’s dirt roads only for the purpose of reaching a trail, campground, or backcountry unit. I do not recommend them for pleasure drives.
The Turner River Road, while equally dusty, is necessary to travel on for a number of reasons. Swamp buggy and other backcountry tours meet along the road; it is the only way to reach the campgrounds of the Bear Island Backcountry Unit; and the trailhead for the Fire Prairie Trail is located on it. However, like the above mentioned roads, avoid Turner River Road for pleasure drives.
No pets other than hunting dogs during the hunting season are allowed in the backcountry.
Following behind another vehicle on the Turner River Road, Big Cypress National Preserve
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Last updated on July 13, 2026
