OCHOPEE LODGING FIELD GUIDE
Nightfall Over the Cypress: Stay at Clyde Butcher’s Swamp Cottage
A secluded two-bedroom cottage behind Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery in Ochopee, with a three-night minimum and capacity for up to six guests.
Nightfall Over the Cypress: Stay at Clyde Butcher’s Swamp Cottage.
Escape to "The Swamp Cottage," a charming hideaway in the heart of the Florida Everglades. Surrounded by lush subtropical beauty, this cozy retreat offers modern comforts and easy access to eco-adventures—kayaking, birdwatching and guided hikes—that let you experience the swamp up close.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hidden in a Cypress Strand Behind the Gallery
The Swamp Cottage sits behind Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery on 13 lush subtropical acres, a private base in the center of over a million acres of wilderness in Ochopee.
Simple, Complete Cottage Amenities
Two bedrooms and two baths, a full kitchen and living room sleeper sofa, plus Wi‑Fi, air conditioning, washer/dryer, grills, a fire pit and a glassed-in viewing room make this a comfortable wilderness hideaway.
Gateway to Everglades Exploration
From the cottage you’re within driving distance of Shark Valley in Everglades National Park, the Big Cypress National Preserve visitor center, boardwalks at Kirby Storter and paddling and fishing opportunities around Everglades City.
What the day feels like
What Staying Here Feels Like
Days begin with birdsong and mirrored pools; evenings bring long, uninterrupted views of swamp light from the glassed-in viewing room or the hammock. The cottage pairs home comforts with direct access to trails, waterways and ranger-led activities, encouraging slow exploration and enforced seclusion.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
There are no grocery stores or restaurants in the immediate area—be sure to bring your own groceries and any personal supplies you’ll need for the stay.
Plan meals and provisioning before arrival; the cottage has a full kitchen but minimal local supply options nearby.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What are the nightly rates and seasonality?
Rates are $395 per night May–Oct and $550 per night Nov–Apr, with a three-night minimum.
How many people can stay at the cottage?
Maximum occupancy is six people (including children); a fee applies for the 5th and 6th guests ($50 per person).
Are pets allowed?
No—pets are not allowed in the rentals.
Is there a discount for local eco-tours?
Yes—upon booking you receive a confirmation email with a code for 20% off either of the gallery’s eco-tours to be entered at booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations accepted up to 30 days prior to arrival for a full refund; cancellations or reschedules with less than 30 days’ notice are non‑refundable and you are responsible for the full reservation amount.
How do late check-ins work?
If you require a late check-in, call the gallery before 5pm so staff can assist; failure to contact staff by the end of the business day may result in forfeiture of your first night’s reservation (contact 239-695-2428).
Where is the cottage located?
The cottage is located behind Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery along the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) at Mile Marker 54.5, about half a mile east of the Big Cypress National Preserve Oasis Visitor Center.