Big Cypress National Preserve | BURNS LAKE PICNIC AREA

Picnic area at Burns Lake Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve

Picnic area at Burns Lake Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve

See the Picnic Areas web page for an interactive location map.


A small picnic area with two tables, each with a grill, is located at the far end of the road that loops around Burns Lake at Big Cypress National Preserve. There are nine parking spaces for day-use visitors. A pit toilet is located near the tables. There is no running water.

You will see other picnic tables along the road, but these are campsites at Burns Lake Campground. While the campground is only open from late August through mid April, the picnic area is open year-round. When the campground is closed, I doubt anyone will stop you from having a picnic at one of the campground tables should the picnic area be full.

Fishing is allowed in Burns Lake with the proper Florida fishing license. However, no swimming is allowed due to the presence of alligators. A warning sign states “Fish at your own risk,” so even fishermen are subject to being eaten.

Burns Lake at Big Cypress National Preserve

Burns Lake at Big Cypress National Preserve

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Last updated on June 14, 2023
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