Invitation graphic for swamp water and me program with bold text, a splash graphic, and a small plant sprouting from a water pool.

Saturday, October 24th

Friends of Big Cypress invites you to a special day hosted by Clyde and Niki Butcher at their Big Cypress Gallery. Discover the wonders of the swamp with guided walks, engaging educational booths, and beautiful artwork in Clyde’s gallery. Hear inspiring talks from preserve rangers, biologists, and passionate volunteers, and enjoy delicious bites from the on-site food truck. This unforgettable event brings together art, nature, and conservation in a truly meaningful way. Overflow parking is at the Oasis Visitor Center, with free shuttle service all day.

Register and choose your adventure below! All proceeds support the Swamp Water And Me Program (learn more), providing environmental education for local 6th graders.

 

52388 Tamiami Trail East Ochopee, FL 34141
(Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery)

Discovery Walk

$50 per person

Classic Walk

$100 per person

Eco Exepedition

$200 per person

VIP Experience

$300 per person

Learn more about each option below.

Discovery Tour

Experience the beauty of Big Cypress National Preserve on a guided Discovery Walk through a shaded cypress strand. A 30-minute walk that’s perfect for children or just as a way to get your feet wet. Along the way, discover orchids, ferns, bromeliads, and the wildlife that thrive in this fragile wilderness.

Three people, including a young girl, hiking through a swampy forest with tall ferns and trees, the girl holding a stick and wearing a pink cap, accompanied by two adults in hats and sunglasses carrying walking sticks.

    • 1-hour experience including check-in and changing clothes

    • 30-minute guided swamp walk

    • Shallow waters up to 2.5 ft deep

    • For youth walks, the guide focuses on engaging, age-appropriate interactions

    • Long pants recommended and closed toed shoes required

    • Bring a change of clothes

    • Less strenuous than the classic walk

    • Includes access to the gallery and ranger activities

Classic Tour

Journey into the wild heart of Big Cypress National Preserve on a 90-minute walk. You will experience some of the habitat diversity that this amazing ecosystem is known for as you explore a wet prairie and the depths of a shaded cypress strand with a knowledgeable guide. Encounter rare and endangered orchids, ferns, bromeliads, and perhaps elusive wildlife that make this fragile wilderness their home.

    • 2-hour experience including check-in and changing clothes

    • 1.5-hour guided swamp walk

    • Deep water up to 4 ft deep, may be challenging

    • Must be 48" or taller to participate (youth are welcome as long as they are tall enough)

    • Long pants and closed toed shoes recommended

    • Bring a change of clothes

    • Includes access to the gallery and ranger activities

Ecology Expedition

Designed for curious explorers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, this in-depth walk offers a closer look at the Everglades’ rich plant life, diverse habitats, and ecological dynamics. Spend three hours immersed in the swamp while learning how its flora, fauna, hydrology, and seasonal cycles work together to sustain this globally significant and remarkably interconnected ecosystem.

    • 3-hour experience including check-in and changing clothes

    • 2.5-hour guided swamp walk

    • Everglades master naturalist guide

    • Deep water up to 4 ft deep, may be challenging

    • Must be 48" or taller to participate (youth are welcome as long as they are tall enough)

    • Long pants and closed toed shoes recommended

    • Bring a change of clothes

    • Includes access to the gallery and ranger activities

VIP Experience

Enjoy an elevated experience with exclusive access to Clyde Butcher’s private, air-conditioned Swamp Cottage. Take in sweeping views of Big Cypress, relax in comfort, and enjoy refreshments throughout the day. VIP tickets include all event activities, access to guided swamp walks, special gifts, and more.

    • Access to Clyde’s private Swamp Cottage

    • Warm hospitality from a Friends of Big Cypress team member

    • Refreshments, including non-alcoholic drinks and hors d’oeuvres

    • One swamp walk ticket (choose your preferred time when you arrive)

    • Friends of Big Cypress ball cap

    • A special gift from Clyde

    • Full access to all event booths, gallery exhibits, and activities

Buy tickets

Sponsors

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Interested in being a recognized partner of S.W.A.M.P. Wander? Find out more how your company can be recognized both here and at the event. Email us at info@fobcnp.org for more details.