About Us

The Everglades club was formed in 1950 by seven men who were dedicated to wildlife conservation and focused on preserving the wildlife populations in the Big Cypress and Everglades ecosystems. At that time, the State of Florida had only recently established the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission.  

  Located at Monroe Station, approximately 40 miles due west of Miami, the club sits immediately south of the western intersection of the Tamiami Trail and Loop Road (state road 94). The club property spans 40 acres and includes the clubhouse, service buildings, and a campground. A paid caretaker is responsible for maintaining the grounds at all times. Membership is limited to around 171 individuals, ensuring that the community outreach efforts are composed only of those who are committed to the club's conservation objectives.  

  What stands out about the club membership is that virtually every member has a deep passion for the Everglades and Big Cypress, and they are all ready to work hard to protect these vital ecosystems. Members collaborate closely with Game Department officers to report game violations, assess wildlife populations, and monitor water levels. The club has backed various projects aimed at propagating game through releases into under-populated areas. They have also dug water holes during dry spells and provided food for animals during wet and flooding periods. The club actively supports youth camps and both Boy Scout and Girl Scout clubs, emphasizing their commitment to community outreach. Several club members have assisted law enforcement, fire, and emergency services in rescue efforts when airplanes have crashed or have been compelled to land in the deep swamp, as well as in combating fires. Each year, the club hosts an annual “Wild Hog Barbecue”, which serves as its sole fundraiser to support operational expenses and ongoing wildlife conservation efforts.  

  This information has been excerpted from the book “Forty Years In The Everglades“ by Calvin.