BIG CYPRESS — Tribal members and Florida residents and visitors have a popular option back – an escape from the city to enjoy the great outdoors.

The spot is right in the midst of the Everglades on the Big Cypress Reservation.

The tribe announced Oct. 26 that the Big Cypress RV Resort would reopen Nov. 2 after Covid-19 concerns had forced it to close.

“We’re excited to reopen and welcome our guests back,” Evelyn Mata, the RV park and campground manager, said in a statement.

Campground rules have been updated to allow for a seamless experience during the pandemic. The new safety guidelines for the resort have been established in a similar way that allowed the tribe’s Florida casinos to reopen.

The measures include that guests must wear masks and practice social distancing while at the resort. Guests must follow all tribal government, campground and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) safety guidelines.

The resort is owned and operated by the tribe.

“The Seminole Tribe of Florida is taking every safety precaution needed to ensure our guests stay safe and well as we continue to navigate these trying times,” Mata said.

The resort offers visitors 110 grassy and paved RV sites with full hook-ups, tents and air-conditioned cabins. You don’t have to have an RV to enjoy the site – the resort is also available to campers.

Guests can also relax under a chickee hut or swim in the heated pool.

Nearby attractions include the AhTah-Thi-Ki Museum, Billie Swamp Safari
and Swamp Water Café. However, due to closures and restrictions because of the pandemic, it’s always best to call in advance for updates.

The RV resort is located about an hour from Fort Lauderdale at 30290 Josie Billie Hwy in Clewiston. More information is at bigcypressrvresort.com.