Monument Lake Campground
4.51466 reviews52105 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL, 34141, USA
Monument Lake Campground
$24.00 - $28.00 / 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 sites are $24 per night, and RV non-electric sites are $28 per night during peak season. Discounts such as Golden Access Passport apply, reducing the fee for eligible seniors to $14 per night. Additional reservation fees of $8-$9 may apply depending on booking platform.
About this campground
Nestled within the vast wilderness of Big Cypress National Preserve, Monument Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to a serene oasis where modern comfort meets untamed Florida nature. Here, campers wake to the gentle lapping of lake waters and the calls of exotic birds, with spacious sites thoughtfully arranged around a picturesque central lake. Whether you're setting up a tent beneath the canopy or parking your RV with a prime water view, you'll find well-maintained amenities including sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, and spotless restroom facilities. This hidden gem serves as your perfect basecamp for exploring nearby wonders like the famous Shark Valley tram tours and the educational exhibits at Oasis Visitor Center, all while offering the tranquil escape that only the Everglades can provide.
This is a primitive, no-hookups campground designed for a quiet, natural experience. It caters to both tent and RV campers, with separate areas for each. Group sites and cabins are not available.
Historical SignificanceMonument Lake Campground sits at the crossroads of natural wonder and cultural heritage, offering campers unique access to the living history of the Everglades. Just a short drive away, the Miccosukee Cultural Center invites visitors to step into centuries of indigenous tradition, while renowned photographer Clyde Butcher's Art Gallery showcases the haunting beauty of these wetlands through his iconic black-and-white imagery. The campground itself plays a vital role in the ongoing conservation story of the Everglades, serving as a gateway for visitors to connect with and understand this UNESCO World Heritage Site's critical importance to our planet's ecosystem.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida camping at its finest during Monument Lake's prime season from August through December, when Mother Nature turns down the humidity and cranks up the comfort. Picture-perfect days averaging 76°F give way to crisp, starlit evenings around 60°F – ideal for campfire stories and marshmallow roasting. The refreshingly dry air during these months transforms outdoor adventures from endurance tests into pure pleasure, while moderate breezes (occasionally dancing up to 22 mph) keep the infamous Florida bugs at bay and add a gentle rustle to the cypress trees overhead.
ElevationTrue to Florida's famously flat topography, Monument Lake Campground rests at the characteristic low elevation of the Everglades region. This sea-level positioning creates the perfect conditions for the intricate water systems that define Big Cypress, where seasonal flooding and drought cycles orchestrate an ancient rhythm of life that has sustained countless species for millennia.
Natural Features and SceneryMonument Lake transforms camping into a front-row seat to one of America's most spectacular wildlife theaters. The campground's centerpiece lake serves as a gathering place for prehistoric alligators basking on sunny banks and elegant roseate spoonbills painting the sky pink with their graceful flights. Tent campers find refuge beneath a natural umbrella of native trees offering dappled shade and rustling serenades, while RV sites embrace the open sky for unobstructed sunrise views and stellar stargazing. Surrounding this aquatic haven, the Big Cypress ecosystem unfolds in all its subtropical splendor – a living tapestry where ancient cypress sentinels rise from mirror-like waters and countless creatures thrive in perfect ecological harmony.
Geological RegionMonument Lake Campground occupies a privileged position within Big Cypress National Preserve's 729,000-acre mosaic of interconnected ecosystems. This geological wonderland showcases nature's versatility through an ever-changing landscape of sawgrass prairies stretching to the horizon, mysterious cypress swamps draped in Spanish moss, sun-drenched pinelands harboring rare orchids, and tidal mangrove forests that blur the line between land and sea. Each habitat tells its own ancient story, shaped by millennia of water flow, seasonal changes, and the delicate balance between freshwater and salt that makes this region utterly unique on Earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with many able to accommodate RVs and tents. Specific dimensions are not mentioned.
Sites PrivacySites are noted to lack privacy, with some reviews mentioning close proximity to neighbors and limited vegetation between sites. "The sites in the northern section are much too close together," noted one review.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the far sides of the campground loop for reduced road noise and better lake views. Tent sites near trees provide limited shade and privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 10, and 27 are frequently praised for their views, space, and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 10 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a circular layout around the lake, with tent sites grouped closer to the host area and restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen during peak season from August 15th through December 31st, 2025. The campground is closed from January through mid-August.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website and app. Payments must be made online, as cash is not accepted on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up. Advance reservations are highly recommended due to limited cell signal at the campground.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to the day before check-in for a $10 cancellation fee. A late cancellation will forfeit the first night's recreation fee in addition to the cancellation fee. Same-day cancellations may only be handled by on-site staff and carry additional penalties.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Monument Lake Campground offers a variety of nature-based activities, including hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. The surrounding Big Cypress National Preserve provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures such as photography and hunting. Nearby attractions include visitor centers and the Shark Valley Scenic Loop.
Hiking
The campground is centrally located within Big Cypress National Preserve, offering access to nearby hiking trails. Specific trails or difficulty levels are not detailed in the source.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Monument Lake, where guests have reported seeing alligators and catching fish. "Fishing near alligator activity" was noted as a potential concern by some reviewers.Biking
Biking is possible around the campground and on nearby scenic routes such as the Loop Road. "The Shark Valley bike trail is a great place to rent a bike," noted one review.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with frequent sightings of alligators, birds such as roseate spoonbills, and other Everglades species. "We saw six alligators one evening," said one reviewer.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs, including campfire talks and interpretive talks, are occasionally offered. "We attended a sunset campfire talk by a park ranger," noted one visitor.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, but the campground's peak season is in winter, when temperatures are mild.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned, and the lake is not suitable for such activities due to alligators.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available at all sites except 2-4. Firewood must be sourced locally and burning off-site wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsAlligators inhabit the lake, making swimming prohibited and requiring caution near the shoreline. Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially at dusk, and fire ants may be active near fire rings.
Active alertsNo active alerts at this time.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Thunderstorm
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
Closest hospital: Physicians Regional Medical Center in Naples, approximately 60 miles away. Emergency services available at the nearby Oasis Visitor Center. Police and ranger stations are also within the Big Cypress National Preserve.
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 15, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities, including bear-proof bins, are available throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are also present.
Proximity to water featuresCentral lake with alligator sightings and frequent bird activity. No swimming allowed.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include excessive generator noise, lack of privacy between sites, and road noise from nearby US HWY 41. Some reviewers noted overcrowding and uneven enforcement of quiet hours.
HostCampground hosts are frequently lauded for their friendliness and helpfulness. Contact number for host inquiries: (239) 631-9988.
Campground Map
52105 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL, 34141, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naples: Follow US HWY 41 east until you see the sign for campground (approximately mile marker 59). From Miami: Follow US HWY 41 west until you see the sign for campground (approximately mile marker 59).
The campground is conveniently located just off US HWY 41 at mile marker 59. The roads are paved for easy access. However, some user reviews noted the lack of signage from certain directions along the highway, which may require extra attention while driving.Nearby places
Naples (60 miles, approximately 1 hour), Miami (90 miles, approximately 1.5 hours), Everglades City (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery store: Publix Supermarket (approximately 40 minutes west on US 41). Gas stations and camping supplies are available in Everglades City (30 miles away). Firewood near Trail Lakes Campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
466 reviews
Monument Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Monument Lake Campground receives positive reviews for its serene environment, wildlife viewing opportunities, and clean facilities. Key highlights include the friendly and helpful camp hosts, excellent cell phone reception, and beautiful lake views. However, the lack of privacy between sites and the noise from generators are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 466 reviews
What Campers Love
- Excellent cell phone reception due to a nearby tower
- Clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers
- Friendly and accommodating camp hosts
- Beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing...
Based on 466 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Generator noise allowed from 6 AM to 10 PM
- Lack of privacy between campsites
- No on-site dump station, requiring RV users to drive 9 miles to the nearest one
- Limited shade at most campsites
-...
Based on 466 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring bug spray to deal with mosquitoes, especially at dusk.
- Fill up water tanks beforehand since water hookups are not available.
- Choose sites further from the road to minimize traffic...
Based on 466 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the winter months due to mild temperatures and fewer bugs. Summer months see fewer visitors due to high heat, humidity, and increased mosquito activity.
Based on 466 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "The sunrises and sunsets are gorgeous!"
- "Showers were an unexpected bonus and very clean."
- "We saw six alligators one evening."
- "Cell reception is excellent because there's a tower at the...
Based on 466 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 10: "The only shaded campsite for tenting in the whole place."
- Site 17: "Best hammock spot."
- Site 25: "Very spacious and private."
Based on 466 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly detailed in reviews, and further information would be required to assess suitability for campers with disabilities.
Based on 466 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but owners are advised to keep them leashed and away from the lake due to alligator activity.
Based on 466 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025