Florida Trail 2026 – Day 1 – This is crazy

Oasis Visitor Center – 10 Mile Campground

The day started great. I met two hikers named 3D and Striker before starting the trail.

It was a difficult hike to my first rest area at 7 Mile Campground. They changed the names of all the camps this year, but I can’t remember them.

I had a slight headache, so I knew I was getting dehydrated. Luckily I packed several hydration packs. These are lifesavers for a strenuous hike like Big Cypress.

After resting for a moment the two hikers I met earlier showed up and we chatted for a while while we rested. Our plans were to aim for a 10 mile campsite for the night.

10 miles may not seem like a lot, but by the time I got to camp I was already beat. I was very happy to set up my tent and prepare dinner. I’m just a beginner, so the first little walk through the swamp really tired me out.

It was such a beautiful day. It was such a long day. The mud even ripped off my shoe at one point. Ha ha ha. Man…what am I doing out here?

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