Florida State Parks
Open dry prairie · dark sky · rare grassland wildlife
Florida’s largest remaining tract of dry prairie pairs wide-open grassland, rare wildlife and exceptional dark-sky viewing with developed camping for large rigs.
GPS27.584° N
81.045° W
Estimated 2-Night Spend$200–$700
Trade Florida’s familiar beaches and swamps for more than 58,000 acres of open dry prairie, protecting the state’s largest remaining tract of this fire-shaped ecosystem. Rare grassland wildlife and Florida’s first internationally recognized Dark Sky Park turn the preserve into one of the Southeast’s most unexpected overnight landscapes.
Kilpatrick Hammock | 35 water/electric family sites | RVs up to 65 ft at selected sites | showers, laundry, fill and dump station | check exact site fit and dark-sky access rules.
Google Maps opens separately, so this destination page remains available when you return.
One of the strongest large-rig cores in the longlist. Current state-park guidance allows RVs up to 65 ft, with water/electric and dump facilities.
Current-condition note: Entry after dark is restricted to registered campers or permit holders; fire/weather conditions may affect access.
32 mi · SE of preserve
The preserve is about 32 miles northwest of Okeechobee; fuel before entering the remote prairie. Use live data for diesel stations suitable for long or towing rigs before the final rural approach. Plan full grocery resupply in Okeechobee; the preserve is intentionally remote.
Driving Directions ↗32 mi · SE of preserve
Remote approach makes pre-trip tire/mechanical checks important; current towing/parts providers should be confirmed before arrival.
Driving Directions ↗32 mi · SE in Okeechobee
Full-service hospital with 24/7 emergency department at 1796 US Highway 441 N, Okeechobee.
Driving Directions ↗
The preserve protects habitat for rare grassland birds including Florida grasshopper sparrow, burrowing owl and crested caracara.
Seasonal elevated buggy tours provide access to remote prairie backcountry and broader wildlife viewing without requiring a private off-road vehicle.
Florida's first internationally recognized Dark Sky Park offers reservable astronomy sites and controlled after-hours access.
One of the preserve's multi-use trail options for experiencing open dry prairie, seasonal wildflowers and wildlife away from the campground.
WORTH THE DETOUR
An aviation-themed local diner at the Okeechobee airport with runway views, large portions and a strong review signal. It creates a memorable small-town food stop before or after the preserve’s deliberately remote prairie experience.
Local · 1–1.5 hr · $
Driving Directions ↗2800 NW 20th Trail, Okeechobee, FL 34972 · +1 863-467-6828 · cafethelandingstrip.com · Current details checked 2026-09-25.
Accuracy note: This digital guide shows the best verified information currently available. Categories without reliable source data may be omitted. Conditions, access, services, and supporting details are continuously reviewed and updated as better information becomes available.