OutReserve

Gator Head Campground

Gator Head Campground pond
Trail to Gator Head Campground
Gator Head Campground restroom

About Gator Head Campground

Gator Head Campground is a primitive campground located within the Bear Island Unit of Big Cypress National Preserve. (THIS CAMPGROUND CAN ONLY BE ACCESSED WITH AN ORV PERMIT, FOOT, OR BICYCLE) THE GATE COMBO WILL ONLY BE GIVEN IF YOU HAVE THE PROPER ORV PERMIT AT THE PERMITING OFFICE. All ORVs must have a valid ORV permit . All campers must also carry a Backcountry permit . Cell phone service is limited and it is highly encouraged that reservations be made in advance. 

Number of accommodations: 9

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently closed

Rates, Sites & Availability

Select check-in and check-out dates to see real-time availability for each site.

9 Sites Available

Site
Price
1
$10.00
/ per night
2
$10.00
/ per night
3
$10.00
/ per night
4
$10.00
/ per night
5
$10.00
/ per night
6
$10.00
/ per night
7
$10.00
/ per night
8
$10.00
/ per night
9
$10.00
/ per night

Reviews (22)

What Guests Are Saying

Gator Head Campground is a peaceful and secluded retreat, ideal for those looking to unplug and enjoy nature, with clean facilities and friendly hosts. Campsite 7 is noted for its privacy, while wildlife sightings enhance the experience. However, visitors should be aware of mosquitoes and the condition of certain campsites, as some may be less maintained than others.

Review Summary

4.0
22 reviews
5
59.1%
13
4
13.6%
3
3
13.6%
3
2
0.0%
0
1
13.6%
3

Jonathan S

Verified

February 1, 2024 Stayed at: 5

4

Nice, clean and quiet campground. We were the only group there. Our camp site was marked with our name when we got there. The toilet was clean and stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. There were several alligators in the pond, but they never left the water. Cell coverage was intermittent.

Anonymous

5
Google Maps

Location Gator Head Campground

Address:
Turner River Road
Ochopee, FL, 34141
United States

Highway access

The campground is accessible via US Highway 41, which is approximately 20 miles from the campground entrance via Turner River Rd.

Latitude & Longitude: 26.2238 / -81.2678

Policies & Rules

Arrival & departure

  • Backcountry permits are mandatory for entry and should be printed in advance.

Accessibility

  • Access to this campground is limited to off-road vehicles with permits, foot, or bicycle; trailers are not permitted.

Vehicles & parking

  • An ORV permit is necessary for off-road vehicle use; contact the office for more information.

Utilities

  • Fresh water is not available at the campground.

Safety & rules

  • Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM; generators must be turned off by 10:00 PM.
  • Campsites left unattended for over 24 hours will be impounded and forfeited.

Fees & deposits

  • Only online payments are accepted; cash is not permitted. Advance reservations are recommended due to limited cell service.

Wildlife & food storage

  • Feeding wildlife is prohibited; food must be stored properly to avoid attracting animals.

Fires & fuel

  • Do not move firewood; purchase it near your campsite to prevent pest spread.

Local regulations

  • Disturbing national preserve resources is prohibited; report illegal activities to park rangers.

Cancellation policy

  • Violating park rules will result in permit revocation with no refund.

Pets

  • Pets are not permitted in the backcountry areas.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: June 4, 2026

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