Every time we hear the phrase “Florida”, the seaside is the very first thing that involves our thoughts 🙂
There are numerous choices on the subject of Florida’s lovely white sand seashores and superb state parks filled with greenery and wildlife. It’s merely a paradise in america.
On this article, we’ve got gathered a number of the hottest in addition to most lovely Florida’s State Parks you possibly can go to with your loved ones or mates.
We’ve listed just a few FAQs and 22 completely different state parks throughout Florida. We maintain our checklist a bit various, so yow will discover seaside parks, lakes, forests, caves, and different superb pure highlights of Florida.
Whether or not you might be planning a weekend getaway, coming to Florida for vacation, or planning a cross-country highway journey, you positively wish to take a look at a few of these superb Florida state parks beneath.
State Parks are sorted from South to North Florida
Curry Hammock State Park – Key West
Positioned midway between Key Largo and Key West, Curry Hammock State Park is uniquely recognized for its massive areas of mangrove, rockland hammocks, and seagrass beds making it important to the Florida Keys ecosystem.
The right location for any adventurous kayaker or paddleboarder.
With 28 websites to choose from, you’ll have a choice of locations to remain and actions to get pleasure from. Most websites are geared up with grave parking areas for vehicles and RVs.
All campsites supply water and 15/30/50 amp electrical hookups. You’ll have entry to swimming, a playground, picnic tables, grills, and public showers on the ocean aspect of Little Crawl Key.
The waters surrounding the park are often calm and delicate, making them supreme for a lot of actions together with canoeing or fishing.
Nonetheless, there aren’t any amenities for powerboats and most waters inside Curry Hammock State Park are a no-combustion zone.
Bahia Honda State Park – KEY WEST
For those who’re headed from the southern tip of Florida to the Keys, make sure to cease off in Bahia Honda State Park. Bahia offers guests with the possibility to observe unique birds, benefit from the water and calm down below the celebrities. It’s a pet-friendly spot for leashed animals and presents tenting, cabins, and a number of the finest RV spots in Florida.
Water followers will put the boat ramp and canoe-kayak launch to good use. You may as well spend time on the seaside, sunning, swimming, or simply watching the waves.
Maintain an eye fixed out for wildlife whereas at Bahia. Not solely is that this park celebrated by birders, however Bahia helps to save lots of the Miami Blue Butterfly from extinction.
You’ll want to save time for a go to to Fort Zachary Taylor to check the lives of troopers defending the southeastern shoreline through the Civil and Spanish-American wars.
Faver-Dykes State Park
Set simply exterior of St. Augustine, Faver-Dykes State Park is an ideal place to launch a canoe or kayak into Pellicer Creek. This meandering stream flows to the Matanzas River and is part of probably the most pristine tidal marshes on the east coast of Florida.
The world is house to each salt and freshwater fish and incredible birding and wildlife-watching alternatives. Spot a deer, hawk, or river otter. Throughout the fitting time of the yr, you too can discover wooden warblers, eagles, and falcons nesting.
The campground is ready in a hardwood hammock and it presents 30 websites for each tents and smaller RVs (below 35 toes). Facilities embrace picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Positioned in Key Largo, Florida Keys, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is among the State’s parks that has extra to supply. E book a ticket and are available go to this actually underwater playground!
Cease by John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to get pleasure from kayaking by the mangroves, and go snorkeling off of Cannon Seashore.
Often known as the primary undersea park in America, the place is made up of roughly 70 nautical sq. miles of enjoyable. From snorkeling excursions to look at the colourful energetic life in shallow-water coral reefs to Scuba Diving to see and expertise its distinctive wildlife.
However in case you are not feeling like getting moist, the glass-bottom boat tour is what you might be searching for. Be taught in regards to the historical past of the reef as you see turtles, sharks, and lots of of sorts of fish from the protection of a ship.
Invoice Baggs Cape Florida State Park – Close to MIAMI
Set on the tip of Key Biscayne, Invoice Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a well-liked various to Miami’s metropolis seashores. In truth, this park is among the most visited state parks within the space and its coast is ranked among the many high 10 seashores nationwide.
However guests don’t come just for the Florida sunshine. The state park additionally presents breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, wealthy fauna and flora, tremendous eating, in addition to a plethora of different actions to have interaction in.
Stroll or bike the paths, fish, hire a ship or a kayak. You may as well delve into historical past on guided excursions by 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse or the keeper’s cottage.
Be aware that Invoice Baggs Cape Florida State Park will get crowded on the weekends. Due to this fact, we advocate you arrive early or come on a weekday.
Oleta River State Park – Close to MIAMI
Oleta River State Park is simply north of Miami and presents guests a little bit of wilderness with loads of entry to metropolis facilities. The park is crisscrossed by many waterways, together with the Oleta River.
You possibly can hire a canoe and take a look at the deeper recesses of the park, or fish off the pier and luxuriate in stress-free alongside the water.
There’s an ideal seaside for a fast dip, bathe amenities for cleansing up, and loads of wildlife to check. Deliver your bike and take a look at the paths. Don’t neglect your binoculars so you possibly can scope out the birds.
Oleta River State Park is a superb spot for households with kids. If Miami is feeling a bit too crowded, you possibly can simply escape to Oleta for a quiet stroll or paddle among the many mangrove bushes. Due to the sandbar to the east, the coast of this park is protected. For those who’re a novice kayaker or paddleboarder, you possibly can check your oars right here!
You possibly can herald a picnic and set out a desk at one of many pavilions, or simply unfold a blanket on the seaside.
Lovers Key State Park Florida – SOUTHWEST
Nicely-named for its romantic setting, Lovers Key State Park is positioned on Lover’s Key and three barrier islands, Black Island, Interior, and Lengthy Key, and lies throughout the metropolis limits of Bonita Springs. With only one go to, it’s simple to see why this place is widespread as a marriage vacation spot.
That includes a two-mile-long seaside on Lovers Key, campers are welcome to walk and benefit from the native wildlife. This consists of West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, osprey, snowy egrets, and over 40 fowl species that decision this place house.
Facilities embrace trails, picnic areas, a boarding ramp, and two playgrounds for household use.
The amenities additionally supply canoe, bicycle, and kayak leases for these touring gentle however searching for to benefit from what Lovers Key has to supply.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park – SOUTHEAST FLORIDA
Its superb pure sources needs to be sufficient so that you can pay a go to to Jonathan Dickinson State Park this yr.
Positioned on the north of Burt Reynolds’ state the park presents two campgrounds. Pine Grove is located on the east aspect of the park and The River Campground is located round 4 miles from the park entrance.
At both campground, you’ll be near water, energy, a desk, and flame broil, but sewer hookups are simply supplied at Pine Grove. Within the occasion that you’ve got an equestrian outside buddy, there are 5 campgrounds that may fit your steed.
There are simply two crude exploring campgrounds off the Florida Path, that are moreover accessible by reserving.
Merely make a degree to pack a range, as kindling gathering isn’t allowed in Florida state parks.
Caladesi Island State Park – close to TAMPA
Caladesi Island State Park is positioned on the Island of Caladesi within the Gulf of Mexico. It’s positioned within the west of Dunedin, Florida.
For those who ask for any particular level to go to in 2022 the place you possibly can get pleasure from the very best time of your life, we’ll recommend you go to probably the most superb seashores of Caladesi Island State Park. This Caladesi Island State Park is the proper location for individuals who wish to spend a while on the peaceable seashores of Florida.
You don’t want to fret about staying on Caladesi Island. The motels on this Island are actually snug and out there at completely different charges.
You possibly can guide any lodge in Caladesi Island starting from 4 to 5-star motels. The value of the keep can differ relying upon the placement and the environment. A keep in Caladesi Island is often not very costly.
Alafia River State Park
Are you a biking fanatic residing or touring round Tampa? Then, Alafia River State Park is a spot for you.
This state park is ready about 45 minutes southeast of town and boasts 20 miles of hilly trails by forests and flatwoods, an ideal choice for mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians alike. There are additionally a number of lakes round providing fishing and canoeing alternatives.
Wanna spend greater than only a day there? You possibly can keep within the full-facility campground. Do you have to want for a bit extra consolation, there are additionally luxurious glamping tents out there.
Troubles along with your bikes? No worries. There’s additionally a full-service bike store and its workers is able to help you with something you would possibly want.
Lake Kissimmee State Park – Central Florida
Nestled within the well-known cow nation in Central Florida, Lake Kissimmee State Park is a family-friendly park that boasts a country ambiance. It’s additionally house to the 1876 Florida Cow Hunters Camp the place cowboy heritage comes alive with residing historical past demonstrations.
However not simply that. Take pleasure in boating, canoeing, or fishing in one of many three surrounding lakes – Kissimmee, Tiger, and Rosalie. Whereas nature lovers will respect greater than 13 miles of trails the place they’ll observe plentiful plant and animal life, together with bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and even bobcats. 6 miles of the paths are additionally accessible to equestrians.
The campground has each full hook-up campsites, in addition to primitive tenting amenities, and is ideal for stargazing.
Honeymoon Island State Park
Only a few miles from Tampa, seaside lovers and journey stickers can discover this pure island, house to eagles, osprey, nice horned owls, and far more!
The island covers 4 miles of seashores and three miles of mountain climbing trails with picnic areas geared up with restrooms and playgrounds.
The amenities at Honeymoon Island State Park are top-notch. Though, the seaside entry could be a bit tough now and restricted resulting from erosion attributable to Tropical Storm Eta.
The middle additionally counts with ranger applications, fishing areas, biking trails, and -one of our favourite ones – a canine seaside!
Professional-tip: understand that it is a pure park and never a vacationer place precisely. So the seaside could be a bit rocky, however it may be simply solved by packing a pair of water sneakers!
Additionally, be able to study in regards to the park’s historical past and its pure sources so you possibly can get pleasure from it to the fullest!
Myakka River State Park – close to TAMPA
In case your aim is to discover the pure fantastic thing about Florida, Myakka River State Park is a superb spot for you. It is among the largest and oldest state parks in Florida. This state park is house to turkeys, gators, and panthers. This is among the few state parks the place you would possibly discover panthers.
Wildlife is the principle attraction in Myakka River State Park and hikers can even benefit from the lengthy path of virtually 39 miles. There are boat excursions which are organized for vacationers each day.
The Deep Gap is probably the most well-known spot if you wish to see gators. In easy phrases, this state park is a paradise for images lovers.
There are a number of campsites within the Myakka River State Park and all of the amenities and companies are supplied close to these. Some campsites are away from these amenities so it’s all the time a good suggestion to deliver additional meals and water for you whereas going mountain climbing.
Rainbow Springs State Park – close to Orlando
Get your gears prepared as you’re going to dive deep into the historical past of Florida in Rainbow Springs State Park. As per historical past, this state park was first visited round 10,000 years in the past.
At the moment, the Rainbow River attracts vacationers for its regular all yr lengthy 72-75 temperature levels.
The campground presents three RV or trailer-just locations and 44 plots that take RVs or tents. A tip for the tent campers — the ground is rocky so deliver good groundsheet.
Campers on the tent or RV locations can anticipate picnic tables and water and electrical hookups.
Blue Spring State Park – close to Orlando
Blue Spring State Park is an ideal vacation spot for a day journey and it’s positively one of many finest state parks close to Orlando, FL.
Pure waters of Blue Spring State Park are the most important attraction right here and many of the vacationers go to right here simply to see the manatee migration.
In case you are into swimming then Blue Spring State Park has so much to supply in your adventure-loving soul.
Anastasia State Park – NORTHEAST
Anastasia State Park is stuffed with historic historical past.
This state park is positioned in Northeast Florida. For those who like to go to historic landmarks and buildings, Anastasia State Park is an ideal vacation spot for you.
There are a number of mountain climbing trails and most of them are within the loop so you’ll most likely find yourself in your place to begin.
This state park is finest for vacationers preferring privateness as Anastasia State Park isn’t too crowded and you’ll get pleasure from some alone time right here in a peaceable surroundings.
Large Talbot Island State Park – NORTHEAST
Large Talbot Island is simply East of Jacksonville close to the Northern Florida border. This park is beloved by birders and hikers alike, and photographers won’t ever run out of material right here!
Go for a hike on Boneyard Seashore. Take your mountain bike down one of many many trails out there, or discover a spot within the picnic pavilion to benefit from the solar and the views.
Be able to pack out no matter you herald, as Large Talbot is primarily a nature reserve, meant to be explored and treasured.
Remember that Large Talbot closes at sunset, although the boat launch is open 24 hours. You will have to get a spot in your RV exterior the park. Listed below are the very best campgrounds in Jacksonville.
Henderson Seashore State Park – NORTHWEST
If you end up in northwestern Florida and searching for a state park with sandy seaside views, Henderson Seashore State Park is the place to go to.
Positioned close to Destin, this state park options white sand seashores and greater than 6,000 toes of scenic shoreline in addition to 60 campsites so that you can select from.
Campsites function water and electrical hookups in addition to bathhouse amenities geared up with air con and warmth making tenting fairly snug.
A boardwalk permits for straightforward entry to the seaside for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. You may as well make use of 4 massive and two small pavilions for picnicking or grilling.
The boardwalk additionally permits for ADA accessibility for people who want it and pet-friendly areas for furry family members.
Florida Caverns State Park – NORTHWEST
For those who’re feeling significantly adventurous, Florida Caverns State Park presents a singular sight with air-filled caves accessible to the general public.
This gem is positioned within the Florida Panhandle close to Marianna and presents 33 campsites so that you can reserve. Nonetheless, understand that park gates shut at sundown so be certain to plan your arrival and exit accordingly.
You’ll not wish to miss their probability to see the one state park in Florida with guided excursions. Cave excursions can be found on a first-come, first-serve foundation and now function a brand new state-of-the-art LED lighting system.
Guests are actually capable of benefit from the limestone formations with out impacting the delicate ecosystem throughout the caves.
Florida Caverns additionally function horse stalls and horse trails for equestrians searching for lovely trails to trip.
Large Lagoon State Park – NORTHWEST
Your go to to Large Lagoon State Park will put you proper alongside the Gulf of Mexico. This park is loaded with enjoyable and family-friendly choices, together with geo-seeking hikes, a playground and campfire circles.
Take pleasure in your time on the seaside and discover a spot for a picnic at one of many pavilions. Deliver your canine on their leash and allow them to take a look at the realm.
This park is house to lots of the crops native to northeastern Florida, and volunteers are working arduous to advertise their development. Deliver your binoculars and maintain an eye fixed out for birds.
Tenting is obtainable, and there’s entry to water and electrical energy. There’s additionally entry to primitive tenting for those who’re able to go for it. Take an extended stroll alongside the boardwalk, or hire a kayak to test issues out farther from the shore.
Blackwater River State Park – NORTHWEST
Blackwater River is legendary all around the world because it is among the purest sand-bottom rivers throughout the globe. Whenever you go to Blackwater River State Park, you’ll know that this state park is value visiting as soon as in your lifetime.
The river is admittedly distinctive resulting from black and darkish water. The river isn’t the one cause to go to Blackwater River State Park, there’s a pure forest too.
There are lots of enjoyable issues to do in Blackwater River State Park and you have to some power to do all of those high issues in Blackwater River State Park. There are a number of tenting websites on the seaside and it’s a nice alternative to spend some high quality time on a peaceable seaside.
Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park is among the oldest state parks in Florida positioned within the North, simply earlier than the border with Georgia.
Parks supply mixtures of nature and historical past that guests can get pleasure from daily! The primary weekend of each month you possibly can expertise numerous soldier performances with firing cannons and demonstrating battlefields abilities.
There are alternatives for numerous actions similar to mountain climbing, fishing, tenting, shelling, or shark tooth searching.
For those who’re visiting North Florida, it is best to positively go to Fort Clinch!
FAQs about State Parks in Florida
Fakahatchee Strand Protect State Park, often known as the Amazon of North America, is with its 77, 000 acres the biggest state park in Florida. It’s principally swamp forest containing round 160 partial state parks.
You possibly can keep in many of the Florida state parks for as much as 14 consecutive days. Nonetheless, a number of the state parks have established their very own weekly/month-to-month limits however the most you could keep in a single park is as much as 8 weeks inside a interval of 6 months.
You may get a person annual move for all Florida state parks for about USD $60 per individual and USD $120 per a 6-member household.
Myakka River State Park and Fort Clinch State Park are the two oldest state parks in Florida.
Conclusion
We hope that you’ve got chosen your subsequent vacation spot for the tour to Florida. These 18 finest state parks in Florida have their very own distinctive points of interest and pure landmarks.
There are some state parks like Caladesi Island State Park that should be a part of each traveler’s must-see checklist.
