Burns Lake Campground
4.42156 reviews52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, USA, 34141
Burns Lake Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent Only Nonelectric sites and RV Nonelectric sites cost $24 per night during peak season (August 15 - December 31). Fees do not include taxes, discounts, or additional charges.
About this campground
Nestled among towering pine sentinels, Burns Lake Campground beckons adventurers to a serene wilderness retreat where every campsite gazes upon crystalline waters. This hidden gem draws hunters tracking elusive game and off-road enthusiasts seeking untamed trails through Florida's wild heart. Here, the symphony of nature replaces urban clamor, as ancient pines whisper secrets above a mirror-like lake that reflects endless sky.
Burns Lake Campground provides options for primitive tent camping and RV camping. It is a dry campground, meaning there are no water or electricity hookups.
Historical SignificanceBurns Lake stands as your gateway to two of America's most treasured wilderness areas. From this strategic basecamp, explorers venture into the vast Big Cypress National Preserve and the legendary Everglades National Park, where decades of conservation efforts have preserved ecosystems that have thrived since time immemorial. These protected lands tell the story of Florida's wild soul and humanity's evolving relationship with nature.
Weather and SeasonsThe subtropical climate wraps visitors in a warm, humid embrace, with morning mists rising from the lake like nature's own theater curtain. Summer brings a chorus of insects and heavy dewdrops that transform spider webs into jeweled masterpieces. Savvy campers flock here during the magical winter months of December through February, when cooler temperatures and lower humidity create perfect conditions for campfire stories and comfortable nights under star-studded skies.
ElevationSituated at the subtle elevations characteristic of South Florida's unique topography, the campground rests on ancient limestone foundations that have shaped the region's distinctive landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Big Cypress National Preserve, where towering pines give way to mysterious swamp forests and sun-dappled wetlands. The centerpiece deep lake, carved by human hands yet reclaimed by nature, attracts an astounding cast of wildlife. Watch for prehistoric alligators sunning on the banks, listen for the rare Florida panther's call, and keep cameras ready for black bears ambling through camp. Overhead, migrating birds paint the sky in seasonal formations, making this a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Geological RegionThe campground sits within the remarkable Big Cypress National Preserve, part of the greater Everglades ecosystem—a river of grass flowing imperceptibly toward the sea. This unique geological wonderland features a tapestry of swamp forests draped in Spanish moss, expansive wetlands teeming with life, and elevated pine uplands that provide dry refuge in this watery wilderness. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where limestone bedrock meets tropical wetlands.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground lacks specific information about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are spacious and well-suited for both RVs and tents. One user noted, 'Super nice size sites so you don’t feel jammed up like some ‘piano key’ type parks.'
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies. Tent sites offer some privacy with vegetation borders, but neighbors on one side may be visible. A user review observed, 'The tent sites are set up where vegetation borders a pair of sites, so you will have privacy on one side, but your neighbors will be in view on the other.'
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers should choose sites for sunrise views on the west side of the lake. RV campers should prepare for no shade.
Best CampsitesTent sites T1 to T6 are praised for their privacy and lake views. Campsites 14 and 16 in the Tent Only NonElectric loop frequently mentioned as user favorites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 10 nights during a visit at this campground during January-April. For other times of the year, details on stay limits are not explicitly provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is not explicitly stated.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly supported, and there are no details on group site availability.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is small, approximately 20 sites split between Tent Only NonElectric and RV Nonelectric loops. Tent sites are on the west side, RV sites on the north side of the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from August 15th to December 31st annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov and associated mobile apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is noted but specific site counts or fill patterns are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations cost $10 but are free if adding/removing nights or switching same-type sites.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Burns Lake Campground offers a range of outdoor activities suited for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, including fishing, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle access. Visitors can also enjoy stargazing and hiking in the vicinity. A user stated, 'Stargazing is my favorite, no light pollution and you are able to see the sky.'
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding areas, with dirt roads for exploration. One user highlighted, 'It’s a good place to ride your bike on the dirt roads.' However, wet conditions may affect usability, as noted: 'This time of year it can still be very wet in the area though so plan to have a tarp under your tent to keep it dry.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, as the lake is described as 'deep and the fishing is a common practice.' One user mentioned, 'The lake is deep, and the fishing is a common practice.' Another noted, 'My husband caught 4 bass.' Anglers are reminded to have appropriate licensure.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other animals. As one user described, 'Amazing experience with a great diversity of plants and animals around the campgrounds.' Campers should exercise caution, as another review noted, 'Bears, gators, hogs, and panthers roam the area.'Winter Activities
Winter camping is particularly enjoyable due to cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. A user observed, 'Mosquitoes were not great though, even in January... can't imagine it in the summer!'Water Sports
Water sports are not recommended due to the presence of alligators in the lake, making activities like kayaking and canoeing unsafe.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to designated fire pits. Firewood must not be brought in from outside the area.
- Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include alligators in the lake, bears, panthers, wild hogs, and water hazards due to the deep artificial lake. Users are advised to exercise caution and keep pets away from the lake.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Everglades City, approximately 12 miles away. Includes a ranger station and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 15 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available, but some users noted maintenance issues, such as 'Trash cans were not emptied' during their stay.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground wraps around a man-made lake. All sites are within close proximity to the lake, providing opportunities for fishing and wildlife watching.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are prevalent even in cooler months. Complaints about noisy generators and lack of shade in RV sites. Some users report issues with campsite management and late-night disturbances.
HostCamp hosts are described as friendly and helpful, providing excellent service. Hosts enforce rules strictly, including generator quiet hours after 10 PM.
Campground Map
52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, USA, 34141
Driving directionsFrom Naples: Follow US HWY 41 east until you see signs for campground (approximately mile marker 67). From Miami: Follow US HWY 41 west until you see signs for campground (approximately mile marker 67).
Accessible via US HWY 41. Approximately 1 mile on gravel from the state route to the campsites. Road conditions include potholes, and caution is advised for RVs and larger vehicles.Nearby places
Naples (approx. 40 miles, 50 minutes), Miami (approx. 70 miles, 1 hour 30 minutes), Everglades City (approx. 12 miles, 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies available in Everglades City (~12 miles). Larger grocery stores and supply centers are in Naples (~40 miles). Fuel available along US HWY 41.
Camper Reviews
4.4
156 reviews
Burns Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitors generally appreciate the tranquility, natural beauty, and wildlife at Burns Lake Campground. Common themes include the unique experience of camping near a lake with alligators, the peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunity to disconnect due to the lack of cell service. However, some users have expressed concerns about noise levels, maintenance issues, and safety protocols.
Review Summaries
Based on 156 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the spacious and clean campsites, the friendliness of camp hosts, and the opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. One review mentioned, 'The nights were peaceful and very...
Based on 156 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include noise disturbances from other campers, generator use, and the lack of fresh water. For example, one user wrote, 'Wish quiet times were enforced,' and another noted, 'No...
Based on 156 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors often advise bringing ample water, bug spray, and a tarp for wet conditions. Many recommended winter months for fewer mosquitoes and more comfortable temperatures. One user advised, 'Bring...
Based on 156 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter is the most recommended season for camping due to cooler weather, fewer bugs, and clear skies for stargazing. Summer months may be less favorable due to high humidity and mosquito activity.
Based on 156 reviewsCamper Quotes
-'Bathrooms are clean.'
-'Bring your bug spray because whenever you go the mosquitos will be there waiting.'
-'Stargazing is my favorite, no light pollution and you are able to see the sky.'
-'Very...
Based on 156 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 is frequently cited for its excellent location and view. However, one user shared a negative experience with their reserved site being occupied, stating, 'I decided to stay the night at the...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are sparse, but one user mentioned feeling comforted by the presence of camp hosts, even if they were not visible during their stay.
Based on 156 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Visitors are advised to be cautious near the lake due to alligators. One user shared, 'He didn't back down and run away either just sat and watched us...
Based on 156 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025