How much does camping cost at Pinecrest Group Campground?

Camping fees at Pinecrest Group Campground range from $30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Pinecrest Group Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Pinecrest Group 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 Pinecrest Group Campground before I book?

Yes! Pinecrest Group Campground has 6 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 Pinecrest Group Campground?

Pinecrest Group Campground is open January 01 to June 01. 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 Pinecrest Group Campground?

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

How many campsites does Pinecrest Group Campground have?

Pinecrest Group Campground has 4 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Pinecrest Group Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Pinecrest Group Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Pinecrest Group Campground?

Popular activities at Pinecrest Group Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Pinecrest Group Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Pinecrest Group Campground?

Fire policies at Pinecrest Group 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.

3.99

19 reviews

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

Stargazing

Featured in:Camping Near Everglades National Park Primitive Camping Florida

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

23 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open from January 1,...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Big Cypress National Preserve Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

23 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open from January 1,...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Big Cypress National Preserve Official Website

Get Directions

Pinecrest Group Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD AREA NONELECTRIC: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Group Site Fee$30.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(239) 631-9988

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

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

Pinecrest Group Campground

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

Nearby places

Naples (approximately 60 miles away), Miami (approximately 70 miles away)

Weather at Pinecrest Group 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.
Cell phone coverage is minimal
During the summer months there is a higher nuisance of biting insects
Food should be stored in a manner as to not attract wildlife

Best Time to Camp at Pinecrest Group Campground

Best season: winter. Winter is the best time to visit because South Florida's dry season (roughly December–March) brings lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and pleasant daytime temperatures typically between about 55–75°F — ideal for group hikes, birding, biking the Loop Road, and fishing. Water levels are often lower and trails and primitive sites are more accessible, so wildlife viewing is at its peak and primitive group camping is comfortable. Expect moderate crowds on holiday weekends but generally quieter mid‑we Peak months: January, February, March, December Avoid: July, August, September, October

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Dry season (Dec–Mar) 55–75°F, lower humidity and fewer mosquitoes; reviewers cite best conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to June 01. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. First-come, first-serve sites available starting June 21, 2025.

About Pinecrest Group Campground

Pinecrest Group Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, offering primitive group camping in South Florida's vast wetland wilderness. Operated by the National Preserve, this very small facility provides spacious sites with fire rings and picnic tables for groups seeking remote access to hiking, biking, and fishing. The campground operates seasonally during peak months when conditions favor exploration of the surrounding cypress swamps and prairies.

Pinecrest Group Campground is a dedicated primitive group camping facility with no modern amenities or individual accommodations.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter is the best time to visit because South Florida's dry season (roughly December–March) brings lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and pleasant daytime temperatures typically between about 55–75°F — ideal for group hikes, birding, biking the Loop Road, and fishing. Water levels are often lower and trails and primitive sites are more accessible, so wildlife viewing is at its peak and primitive group camping is comfortable. Expect moderate crowds on holiday weekends but generally quieter mid‑we Peak months: January, February, March, December Avoid: July, August, September, October

Elevation23 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits on ancient limestone bedrock along Loop Road, surrounded by pine and oak communities. The clearing provides dappled shade rather than dense cover, which improves wildlife viewing. Alligators, Florida panthers, coyotes, bobcats, and various snake species inhabit the area. The preserve functions as a crucial watershed for the Everglades, where water and upland ecosystems meet on South Florida's unique geology. Elevation is 23 feet.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground is limited to primitive group camping and does not offer any hotel-style lodging options.

Programs & ActivitiesWhile the campground does not offer direct programs, nearby attractions include the Miccosukee Cultural Center, providing opportunities for cultural enrichment.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 10 nights within the designated timeframe.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Large groups permitted. Specific capacity not provided.

Groups

The facility has four group campsites specifically designated for group camping. Each site is spacious, and the location is ideal for gatherings such as birthday events and scout troops.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground is primitive and does not include specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe four group campsites are described as "incredibly spacious" by users.

PrivacySites are located in a clearing surrounded by trees, offering minimal privacy. They are suitable for group use but do not feature dense foliage or barriers for seclusion.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended SitesGroup campers should bring their own shade structures, cleaning supplies for vault toilets, and insect repellent. Sites are spacious, but minimal shade is provided.

Best CampsitesSite 003 got positive reviews for cleanliness and stargazing opportunities. All four sites are described as "incredibly spacious" by users.

Need help booking Pinecrest Group Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

This campground is for primitive group use camping only. Picnic tables and fire rings are available at each site. There are no covered picnic areas, toilets, hookups, or water.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Pinecrest Group Campground offers access to paddling, hiking, birding, fishing, and hunting with proper licenses. Campers have also noted opportunities for stargazing due to the area's remote and dark skies.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our 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. Campers must rely on a primitive vault toilet setup, which some users have described as 'beyond disgusting' and in need of personal cleaning supplies.

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.

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 and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Campers are advised to pack out what they pack in and store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife.

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

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

19 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Pinecrest Group Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the spaciousness of the group campsites, the remote and quiet nature of the location, and opportunities to enjoy nature. However, complaints about the vault toilets and minimal shade are common.

Review Summaries

Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

"The four campsites are incredibly spacious!" Users praised the cleanliness of the campground and the remote stargazing opportunities. Other highlights include the quiet atmosphere and wildlife...

Based on 19 reviews

Common Concerns

The vault toilets are commonly criticized, with one reviewer describing them as "beyond disgusting." Minimal shade and the prevalence of biting insects, particularly mosquitoes, were also noted...

Based on 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews specifically mention campsite 003 as "extremely clean and well maintained" with a helpful staff member providing gate information. Campsite 004 is noted for hosting a memorable birthday event.

Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all necessary supplies, including water, shade structures, and insect repellent. A canopy or makeshift shade structure is recommended. Be prepared for the lack of cellular service and...

Based on 19 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Biting insects can be a significant nuisance during the summer months. Visitors are advised to prepare accordingly with appropriate insect repellents.

Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The four campsites are incredibly spacious!" 2. "The bathroom situation... there is none. There is a shelter with a hole in the ground to do your business." 3. "The night sky was dark and full of...

Based on 19 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features.

Based on 19 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not explicitly discussed in user reviews.

Based on 19 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

You want a secluded group basecamp for exploring Big Cypress during the dry winter season.

Skip if

You need shade, bathroom facilities, or plan to visit during mosquito-heavy summer months.

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Campgrounds

Big Cypress National Preserve

Pinecrest Group Campground

About Big Cypress National Preserve

Context for the broader area surrounding Pinecrest Group Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

The freshwaters of the Big Cypress Swamp, essential to the health of the neighboring Everglades, support the rich marine estuaries along Florida's southwest coast. Conserving over 729,000 acres of this vast swamp, Big Cypress National Preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plant communities that are home to diverse wildlife, including the Endangered Florida panther.

Directions

Big Cypress National Preserve is located along Tamiami Trail East (US 41) and I-75 in southern Florida. The preserve can be accessed by driving from the cities of Miami and Naples. The preserve's two visitor centers are located along Tamiami Trail East.