How much does camping cost at Burns Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Burns Lake Campground are $24/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Burns Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Burns Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Burns Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Burns Lake Campground has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Burns Lake Campground?

Burns Lake Campground is open January 01 to April 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Burns Lake Campground?

Burns Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Burns Lake Campground have?

Burns Lake Campground has 20 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Burns Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Burns Lake Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Burns Lake Campground?

Burns Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Burns Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Burns Lake Campground include Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Burns Lake Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Burns Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Burns Lake Campground: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.36

233 reviews

52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, USA, 34141

C+Report Card

Summer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Everglades National Park#2 Primitive Camping Florida

Quick Facts

20 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open from August 15t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Big Cypress National Preserve Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

20 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open from August 15t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Big Cypress National Preserve Official Website

Get Directions

Burns Lake Campground

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

239-695-1205

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Campground Map

52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, USA, 34141

Burns Lake Campground

52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, USA, 34141

Nearby places

Naples (approx. 40 miles, 50 minutes), Miami (approx. 70 miles, 1 hour 30 minutes), Everglades City (approx. 12 miles, 15 minutes).

Weather at Burns Lake Campground

Current alerts(6)

Any violations of park rules or regulations will cause a revocation of your camping permit and no refund will be given.
Dogs must be kept on a leash.
For more information please call the off-road vehicle office at 239-631-9988.
No fresh water is available.

Best Time to Camp at Burns Lake Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best blend of dry trails, mild temperatures (daytime highs typically 75–85°F, nights 55–65°F from October–November), and dramatically improved wildlife viewing as water levels drop and migratory birds pass through. This is prime time for hiking, fishing, birding and hunting opportunities in Big Cypress without the oppressive heat and mosquitoes of summer. Expect moderate crowds on holiday weekends and during peak hunting periods, but otherwise a peaceful, scenic experience around Peak months: November, December, October, August Avoid: January, February, March, April

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Winter recommended for cooler temps, fewer bugs and excellent stargazing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to April 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from August 15th to December 31st annually.

About Burns Lake Campground

Burns Lake Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, operated by the National Park Service with a 10-day stay limit. This small, budget-friendly campground offers tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables in the low-elevation Everglades ecosystem. Visitors fish, watch wildlife, and enjoy dark skies during the fall and winter season when water levels drop and migratory birds pass through.

Burns Lake Campground provides options for primitive tent camping and RV camping. It is a dry campground, meaning there are no water or electricity hookups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best blend of dry trails, mild temperatures (daytime highs typically 75–85°F, nights 55–65°F from October–November), and dramatically improved wildlife viewing as water levels drop and migratory birds pass through. This is prime time for hiking, fishing, birding and hunting opportunities in Big Cypress without the oppressive heat and mosquitoes of summer. Expect moderate crowds on holiday weekends and during peak hunting periods, but otherwise a peaceful, scenic experience around Peak months: November, December, October, August Avoid: January, February, March, April

Elevation20 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a small clearing at 20 feet elevation within Big Cypress's mosaic of pine uplands, cypress swamps, and wetlands. The lake itself draws alligators that sun on the banks and occasionally wander through camp. Overhead, pine canopy provides variable shade depending on site location. The broader preserve features swamp forests draped in Spanish moss and vast sawgrass prairies stretching toward the horizon. Wildlife sightings include black bears, wading birds, and the occasional Florida panther track. RV sites offer less shade than tent sites, which sit closer to thicker vegetation on the lake's west side.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or accommodations are available. The campground is exclusively for primitive and RV camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are directly mentioned for this campground, but the nearby Big Cypress and Everglades National Park offer ranger-led tours and educational activities.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 10 nights during a visit at this campground during January-April. For other times of the year, details on stay limits are not explicitly provided.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy is not explicitly stated.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly supported, and there are no details on group site availability.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov and associated mobile apps.

AccessibilityThe campground lacks specific information about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe campsites are spacious and well-suited for both RVs and tents. One user noted, 'Super nice size sites so you don’t feel jammed up like some ‘piano key’ type parks.

PrivacyThe level of privacy varies. Tent sites offer some privacy with vegetation borders, but neighbors on one side may be visible. A user review observed, 'The tent sites are set up where vegetation borders a pair of sites, so you will have privacy on one side, but your neighbors will be in view on the other.

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesTent campers should choose sites for sunrise views on the west side of the lake. RV campers should prepare for no shade.

Best CampsitesTent sites T1 through T6 get consistent praise for lake views and better privacy due to vegetation buffers. Sites 14 and 16 in the tent loop are mentioned frequently as favorites. RV sites lack shade and offer less natural screening, though they're more spacious. Site spacing varies: vegetation separates paired tent sites on one side, but neighbors remain visible on the other.

Need help booking Burns Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Burns Lake Campground features essential amenities for nature enthusiasts, including a picnic day-use area, vault toilets, and an off-road vehicle parking lot and access point. Importantly, no fresh water is available on-site. The campground is appreciated for its peaceful and scenic environment, offering views of a lake surrounded by towering pine trees. As noted by the official source, 'This campground allows you to feel like you are getting away while still being close enough to modern conveniences.' User reviews also highlight the practicality of the amenities, stating, 'Bathrooms are clean' and 'fire pits were a great size for a larger group.' However, some reviews noted limitations, such as 'No water or electric, so come prepared.'

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Burns Lake Campground

Burns Lake Campground offers a range of outdoor activities suited for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, including fishing, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle access. Visitors can also enjoy stargazing and hiking in the vicinity. A user stated, 'Stargazing is my favorite, no light pollution and you are able to see the sky.'

Fishing4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Frequent alligator and bird sightings; wildlife viewing is a highlighted activity.

Water Sports2.0/5

Watercraft discouraged given deep water and alligators; kayaking not promoted.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Good opportunities for wildlife and lakeside photography (birds, gators, cypress/pine scenes).

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground provides vault toilets, which are described as 'clean' by many users, although one user noted, 'The toilets' septic tank are almost full.'

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are mandatory for food storage but are not provided at every site. Campers may use their vehicle as an alternative.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are available, but some users noted maintenance issues, such as 'Trash cans were not emptied' during their stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

233 reviews

Recommended

Burns Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Visitors generally appreciate the tranquility, natural beauty, and wildlife at Burns Lake Campground. Common themes include the unique experience of camping near a lake with alligators, the peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunity to disconnect due to the lack of cell service. However, some users have expressed concerns about noise levels, maintenance issues, and safety protocols.

Review Summaries

Based on 233 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the spacious and clean campsites, the friendliness of camp hosts, and the opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. One review mentioned, 'The nights were peaceful and very...

Based on 233 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include noise disturbances from other campers, generator use, and the lack of fresh water. For example, one user wrote, 'Wish quiet times were enforced,' and another noted, 'No...

Based on 233 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 14 is frequently cited for its excellent location and view. However, one user shared a negative experience with their reserved site being occupied, stating, 'I decided to stay the night at the...

Based on 233 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors often advise bringing ample water, bug spray, and a tarp for wet conditions. Many recommended winter months for fewer mosquitoes and more comfortable temperatures. One user advised, 'Bring...

Based on 233 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter is the most recommended season for camping due to cooler weather, fewer bugs, and clear skies for stargazing. Summer months may be less favorable due to high humidity and mosquito activity.

Based on 233 reviews

Camper Quotes

-'Bathrooms are clean.' -'Bring your bug spray because whenever you go the mosquitos will be there waiting.' -'Stargazing is my favorite, no light pollution and you are able to see the sky.' -'Very...

Based on 233 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are sparse, but one user mentioned feeling comforted by the presence of camp hosts, even if they were not visible during their stay.

Based on 233 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Visitors are advised to be cautious near the lake due to alligators. One user shared, 'He didn't back down and run away either just sat and watched us...

Based on 233 reviews

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Burns Lake Campground

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

239-695-1205

Go if

You want affordable access to Big Cypress backcountry with fishing opportunities and don't mind vault toilets or seasonal mosquitoes.

Skip if

You need shade for RV sites, full hookups, or want to avoid generator noise from neighboring campers.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.5

(716)

Monument Lake Campground

52105 Tamiami Trl E, Ochopee, FL, 34141, USA

Monument Lake Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, operated by the preserve's management team. This mid-sized campground offers tent, RV, and primitive options with flush toilets, showers, and potable water. Visitors come for fishing on the lake and wildlife viewing, particularly alligators and migratory birds during fall months when temperatures and humidity drop.

Burns Lake Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

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Campground Map

Weather at Burns Lake Campground

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Burns Lake Campground

Planning Tips

About Burns Lake Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Burns Lake Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Burns Lake Campground

Policies & Safety

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Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

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Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Burns Lake Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Burns Lake Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Burns Lake Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews