Come join the Florida Trail Association and the Alligator Amblers Chapter for a trail maintenance event in Big Cypress National Preserve!
IMPORTANT: This is a remote, backcountry experience. The trail crew will be camped in a primitive campsite (Ivy Camp) with no modern facilities. Volunteers must have backcountry camping experience, and be able to stay with our crew for the duration of the event.
How to Participate (Two Required Steps)
- Complete the Volunteer Application (Google Form). Because of the remote and technical nature of this project, all interested volunteers must first submit an application.
- Register for the Event on this page. After registering, you will be automatically placed on the waitlist. Applications will be reviewed, and selected volunteers will be notified with confirmation and additional details. Applicants will be notified by Monday, March 23rd if they have been selected for this event.
Big Cypress National Preserve is often noted as the most remote wilderness hike on the Florida Trail. Get your feet wet while you trek through cypress groves in search of rare ghost orchids, migratory bird populations or even a glimpse of the endangered Florida panther.
This special Volunteer Work Party helps you enjoy Florida's most remote wilderness experience. Immerse yourself in the Everglades and see the trail in a whole new light!
Camping: We will be camped at Ivy Camp in Big Cypress. It is a small island campsite. Due to the small camping area and limited space on the buggy, volunteers should bring essentials only. Water, meals, camp toilet and shower bags will be provided.
Meals: All meals Thursday lunch - Monday breakfast will be provided.
What to bring: For all projects you will need to bring a day pack, quick drying shoes, and appropriate clothing. Long pants are required to do trail work and long-sleeved shirts are recommended. Sunscreen and bug spray are also advised. You will need to provide your own camping gear, which includes a tent, sleeping bag, lunch container (baggie or tupperware), water bottle, coffee mug, and personal items.
What to expect: This is a remote, backcountry experience. The trail crew will be camped in a primitive campsite at Ivy Camp. Volunteers must have backcountry camping experience, and be willing to stay with our crew for the duration of the event. We will use a combination of power tools and hand tools to bring the trail back up to standard.
Directions: Meet on the south side of the Collier County Rest Stop on I-75 which is located at Mile Marker 63. Vehicles will be left in this parking lot while we are working.
For questions regarding the event, contact Mark Romagosa at rtm-centralsouth@floridatrail.org
