Pink Jeep Campground

Star5.08
7 reviews
33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, 34141
Pink Jeep Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Reservations incur a recreation use fee ($10 per night), plus additional reservation fees (online: $8, contact center: $9, in-person: $3). Late...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$10.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
239-695-1117bicy_recreation@nps.gov

About this campground

Deep in the wild heart of Big Cypress National Preserve lies Pink Jeep Campground, a hidden gem accessible only to the adventurous souls willing to journey by off-road vehicle, bicycle, or on foot. This intimate backcountry retreat features just nine pristine campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, shared food storage lockers, and fire rings for those magical evening gatherings under the stars. The primitive setting offers a rare escape from civilization, where the only sounds you'll hear are the whispers of the wind through cypress trees and the calls of native wildlife.
Pink Jeep Campground is a primitive camping facility catering to tent and pickup camper users in a backcountry setting, emphasizing a rugged, natural experience.
Historical SignificanceThis precious corner of Big Cypress National Preserve serves as nature's lifeline, functioning as the vital freshwater source that sustains the legendary Everglades National Park downstream. Here, visitors witness the remarkable convergence of temperate and tropical ecosystems that have shaped southwest Florida for millennia. The preserve tells the story of a delicate ecological balance, where every drop of water and every species plays a crucial role in maintaining one of America's most unique natural treasures.
Weather and SeasonsPink Jeep transforms with the seasons, offering unique experiences throughout the year. Winter months bring a camper's paradise with refreshingly cool temperatures and, best of all, a blessed reprieve from Florida's notorious insects. Spring welcomes visitors with moderate conditions, particularly during Week 9 when temperatures dance between a comfortable 12°C and 36°C under brilliantly clear skies. The dry humidity during this period creates perfect conditions for exploring the surrounding wilderness and enjoying peaceful nights around the campfire.
ElevationThe campground rests at the subtle elevations characteristic of the Big Cypress region, where even slight changes in height create dramatically different ecosystems and water flows throughout the preserve.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Big Cypress Swamp, where ancient cypress trees rise from dark waters and sawgrass prairies stretch to the horizon. This extraordinary landscape serves as a sanctuary for the elusive Florida Panther and countless other species that call this wilderness home. The campground sits at the crossroads of tropical and temperate plant communities, creating a botanical wonderland where orchids bloom in the canopy and wading birds patrol the shallows. Each sunrise and sunset paints the sky in spectacular colors, reflected in the still waters that define this remarkable ecosystem.
Geological RegionPink Jeep Campground occupies a fascinating geological position within the greater Big Cypress Swamp system, where limestone bedrock creates a complex mosaic of water flow that sustains the entire Everglades ecosystem. This unique landscape represents millions of years of geological evolution, where ancient seas gave way to freshwater marshes and cypress domes. The interplay between water, rock, and vegetation has created one of the most biologically diverse regions in North America, supporting everything from tiny tree snails to apex predators like the Florida Panther.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground is remote and accessible only by off-road vehicle (with a required permit), foot, or bicycle. Access may be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeThe campground features 9 primitive campsites designed for tents and pickup campers only. No trailers or RVs are permitted.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest that the campsites are spacious with nice tree coverage, which provides a level of privacy: "The campsites have nice space and tree coverage."
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTree-covered sites provide shade, and reviews suggest all sites are well-maintained with clean picnic tables and toilets.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The number of guests per site is not explicitly stated.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are organized within a small loop, offering privacy and individual tree coverage.
Open and Closed SeasonAll year
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is not clearly stated, but advance reservations are highly encouraged due to limited cell service.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up to the date of arrival. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the use fee for the first night.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Pink Jeep Campground offers an array of recreational opportunities that cater to adventurous visitors looking to explore the natural and remote settings of the Big Cypress backcountry. Activities include hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, birding, and off-road vehicle (ORV) trails (with the required permit). The area is celebrated for its natural beauty and wildlife diversity.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in the surrounding Bear Island Unit and Big Cypress backcountry. The area offers over 20 miles of backcountry trails.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the nearby freshwater ecosystems. Regulations must be followed, available at myfwc.com.
Biking
Biking is allowed on trails within the Bear Island Unit and is a viable way to access the campground.
Wildlife viewing
The campground is situated in a region renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the elusive Florida Panther. Birding is also a noted activity.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the cooler months are noted as an ideal time to visit due to pleasant temperatures and absence of bugs.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed within the designated fire rings. Firewood must be obtained locally to prevent pest spread.
  • Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Hazards

General hazardsCampers should be cautious about wildlife interactions, including potential confrontations with species like the Florida Panther. Lack of water facilities means visitors must carry their own supply.
Active alertsPit toilets at H.P. Williams Roadside Park are closed. Off-road vehicle trails will close for 60 days starting June 2nd and running through July 31st, 2025.

Weather forecast

77
°F
Oct 8
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 91%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 7 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky
7-Day Forecast

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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center (closest restroom, 30 miles south), general emergency support in nearby Everglades City.

Good to know

Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are advised to store food properly to prevent attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby water bodies are highlighted.
Common complaintsLimited cell service may make communication challenging. Additionally, the dusty road leading to the campground could be a potential inconvenience.
HostCamp hosts are noted for being friendly, helpful, and maintaining the facilities in excellent condition.

Campground Map

33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, 34141
Driving directionsFrom Naples follow US HWY 41 east to Turner River Road. Follow Turner River Road approximately 20 miles and turn right towards Bear Island Campground. Take the next left to Perochi Grade (ORV Permit and gate code needed to access this area). Follow Perocchi Grade for approximately 3 miles and make a left onto Bear Island Grade. Campground will be on the left. From Miami follow US HWY 41 west to Turner River Road. Follow Turner River Road approximately 20 miles and turn right towards Bear Island Campground. Take the next left to Perochi Grade (ORV Permit and gate code needed to access this area). Follow Perocchi Grade for approximately 3 miles and make a left onto Bear Island Grade. Campground will be on the left.
Access requires an off-road vehicle permit and gate code. The route includes unpaved roads, making it challenging for vehicles without proper clearance. The gate combo is provided to those with the necessary permits.
Nearby places
Everglades City (30 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Everglades City, 30 miles south, provides dining, groceries, and supplies. No water facilities are available at the campground itself.

Camper Reviews

5.1
7 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Pink Jeep Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Pink Jeep Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the natural beauty, solitude, cleanliness, and excellent maintenance of the campground. The unique off-road access and remote setting add to its appeal.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the campground for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites with tree coverage, and the peaceful, natural setting. Examples include: "The campsites have nice...
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Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

There were no specific complaints highlighted in the reviews. However, potential challenges include the remote access requiring an ORV permit and the lack of potable water.
Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing sufficient water due to the lack of potable water on-site. Reservations should be made in advance due to limited cell service. The cooler months are ideal for visiting:...
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Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter months received the most positive feedback due to cooler temperatures and fewer insects: "Beautiful in January, cool, no bugs!" Summer visits may be more challenging due to heat and humidity.
Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Isolation in the Everglades. Wild fruit to pick. Clean campsite." - Geoff Sutcliffe. "Beautiful place to camp!" - Derek Wilkes. "The camp host and camp maintenance have everything running perfectly....
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Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site numbers are mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed in the backcountry, and no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 7 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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