The Watson Place Campsite
The Watson Place is a historic backcountry ground campsite within the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness in Everglades National Park. The site preserves an early-1900s homestead where Ed Watson lived in a two-story house growing vegetables and refining sugarcane. Historic artifacts remain visible including a cement cistern, a sugarcane syrup cauldron, and farm equipment. The site features water-based access via kayak or small boat and offers picnic tables, benches, a dock, and a composting toilet. Exotic plant species are present at the location. (via official site)
- toilet
- dock
- picnic tables
- benches
- water access
- scenic view
Rates & prices
Prices as published on The Watson Place Campsite’s official website (USD).
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Park entrance administrative fee | USD 21 |
| Backcountry camping use fee | USD 2 per person/night |
Key facts
At-a-glance details for The Watson Place Campsite, from its official website.
Booking & season
Pitches & accommodation
Facilities & services
Activities & family
Location & access
Rules & policies
Good to know
Facilities & details
Amenities and on-site features reported for The Watson Place Campsite.
Know before you go
Practical things to prepare for a trip to The Watson Place Campsite.
- This is a backcountry site — you'll need to carry in your gear and water.
Location
Where The Watson Place Campsite sits on the map and how to get there.
Nearby cities & towns
Towns and cities closest to The Watson Place Campsite — browse campsites near each.
What’s nearby
Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.
🏞️ Attractions
Big Cypress National Preserve is a United States national preserve located in South Florida, about 45 miles (72 km) west of Miami on the Atlantic coastal plain. The 720,000-acre (2,900 km2) Big Cypress, along with Big Thicket National Preserve in Texas, became the first national preserves in the United States National Park System when they were established on October 11, 1974. Florida film produce
🛒 Amenities & services
🚻 Toilets & showers
- Public toilets
Weather
Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.
Best time to visit
Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at The Watson Place Campsite.
Good to know
Quick answers to common questions about The Watson Place Campsite.
How do I book Watson Place?
All backcountry campsites are booked exclusively through Recreation.gov. Campsites open for reservations 90 days in advance. Walk-up sites are no longer available (effective January 2, 2023). Credit cards are required for all bookings.
What are the costs?
There is a $21 administrative fee plus an additional $2 per person, per night use fee.
What is the maximum stay?
Maximum 2-night stay during peak season (mid-November through late April).
How many people can stay at Watson Place?
The site accommodates 20 people across 5 parties maximum.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, a wilderness permit is mandatory for overnight camping. Your Recreation.gov confirmation email serves as your permit—print a copy or save a digital copy and carry it with you during your trip.
Who runs The Watson Place Campsite?
The Watson Place Campsite is operated by National Park Service.
When is The Watson Place Campsite open?
The Watson Place Campsite is open Year-round; peak season mid-November through late April.
What languages are spoken at The Watson Place Campsite?
Staff at The Watson Place Campsite speak English.
Reviews
Ratings, nightly prices and photos from people who’ve camped here.
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