OCHOPEE ECO TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Solemn Cypress and Wet-Soil Silence: A Private Guided Swamp Walk in Big Cypress
A two-hour, private, foot‑paced tour that takes you from behind Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery into the heart of a perpetually changing freshwater swamp—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Solemn Cypress and Wet-Soil Silence: A Private Guided Swamp Walk in Big Cypress.
This is a private, guided walk on Clyde and Niki Butcher’s Big Cypress property that leads you by foot into the living, seasonally shifting heart of a freshwater swamp—an intimate encounter with orchids, ferns, bromeliads and the distinctive architecture of cypress trees.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A swamp that changes with the seasons
The walk brings you into a freshwater wetland that floods and dries cyclically; depending on season you will see anything from inundated cypress to exposed buttressed roots and limestone mosaics.
A living collection of rare plants
The property supports threatened and endangered orchids, ferns and bromeliads; the guide will point out these sensitive species as you move through multiple swamp habitats.
Private, foot‑paced, interpretive
This is a private experience led at a leisure pace by an experienced guide—designed to be an intimate encounter with the ‘Real Florida’ on Clyde Butcher’s land rather than a large-group tram tour.
What the day feels like
What the walk feels like
You are led on foot, at an easy pace, into a swamp that is seasonally wet or dry; the tour is private and interpretive, guiding you through the surrounding habitats on the Butchers’ Big Cypress property and enriching your understanding of the plants and animals that inhabit this unique freshwater wetland.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private swamp walk suits — and who should rethink it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The experience is a two‑hour private walk; that total includes preparation and clean‑up time.
Tours depart from behind Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery on the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) at Mile Marker 54.5, on the Butchers’ property near Ochopee.
Long sleeve shirt, long pants, a hat and old tennis shoes are recommended.
Light rain gear, bug spray, sunblock, a water bottle, lunch or snacks and a complete change of clothes (you will most likely get wet depending on the time of year).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The private guided swamp walk is two hours total, and that duration includes preparation and clean‑up time.
Where do we meet?
Meet behind Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery on the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41); tours take place on the Butchers’ property behind the gallery.
Can I book if I’m traveling alone?
No—there is a two‑person minimum for this private tour.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear long sleeves, long pants, a hat and old tennis shoes; bring light rain gear, bug spray, sunblock, water, snacks or lunch and a complete change of clothes.
What if the tour time I want isn’t listed?
If your desired date or time is not available, call the operator at 239-695-2428; tour times are flexible and they may be able to accommodate you.