Dinner Island Ranch is a bit out of the way, but so worth the extra effort. For those that don’t know, it’s a working cattle ranch that’s also a wildlife management area. If you’d like to learn more, check out their WEBSITE. For the location, the map is linked to the left.
Some of us who love sleeping in the great outdoors are camping here this weekend. You can join us for as much or little as you like and come whenever it’s convenient and beneficial to you. That’s why I put the time from 8am till 11pm. Come when you want. Sunrise, sunset, starry skies, wildlife. You pick. All we ask is you RSVP so those of us here know when to expect you and can meet you at the “Check In” area.
Please be sure to RSVP by clicking the button below.
GETTING THERE
Make sure you have a full tank of gas before you go. That’s not a place you want to run of out fuel. There’s a Miccosukee Service Plaza on the exit from I-75 if you want to top off.
Also, when driving there be aware the most direct route will take you through the Seminole Nation’s Big Cypress Reservation. After exiting I-75 onto County Road 833/Snake Road, you’ll be in Indian Territory for the next 20 miles. The speed limit on the highway is 30 mph, even in the rural areas. I DO NOT recommend going over the speed limit or doing anything that will get you pulled over. I cannot overstate this enough. If this is a problem, maybe reroute yourself and drive up US Hwy. 27 to Clewiston then continue west on FL Hwy. 80 and then south on CR 833.
The direct route through the Big Cypress Reservation will save you 30 miles than going through Clewiston, but will only save about 10 minutes drive time. It’s up to you. Just be aware, you were warned.
CAMERA GEAR
As far as what camera gear to bring, I’d say bring it all. We generally shoot out of our vehicles so carrying gear isn’t an issue. Don’t forget your tripod!
REFRESHMENTS
Highly recommend packing a cooler full of goodies, water, or other liquid refreshments, ice, and snacks. It could possibly be hot, it’s Florida. Make sure you’re well hydrated and stay hydrated while there. There are no stores ‘around the corner’, we’re out in the middle of nowhere. If you forget something, the Miccosukee Service Plaza looks to be the last place to replenish supplies. Looks like a brand new store!
BUGS
March in Florida, will there be BUGS? Your guess is as good as mine. Would I leave the house without bug spray or ThermaCell? NEVER. Bring your Deet spray, ThermaCell, bug jackets, just in case.
TURKEY HUNTING
FYI - We will be there during Turkey Hunting season. When we’re out and about taking photographs, be aware of your surroundings and what’s possible. If you want to know more about their hunting seasons, click HERE or call the WMA office and ask for specific details. I may do that myself. If so, I’ll add here what info I get.
Until then, plan to wear bright colorful clothing, especially a shirt, and don’t dress like a turkey. lol Staying close to the roadways will pretty much ensure that we’ll be safe as well. Just be aware and don’t go off into an unknown area without safety precautions.
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Closest municipality is Clewiston to the north, but it’s a good 20+ miles away. Click the “(map)” link to the left if you want the specific address.