These terrific county parks are popular with locals, rich in things to do, awaiting discovery by the Florida traveler.
Recent Articles
Top 75 Florida events, fairs & festivals in 2026
Our festival calendar is constantly updated and we’ve been following the festival scene for 15 years. Here are 75 hand-picked festivals around the state that range from off-beat local bashes to huge nationally known cultural events.
Historic Jungle Trail is an unpaved road to explore original Florida
The picturesque 8-mile sand road in Vero Beach takes you past historic landmarks, including the first US wildlife refuge and a pioneer homestead overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. You can walk, bicycle on fat-tire bikes or drive it slowly. This is an original section of A1A.
Honeymoon Island: Spectacular natural beach with charming Old Florida history
Honeymoon Island in Dunedin has a big, natural beach where you can get away from people, but also offers a cafe and bikes and kayaks to rent. Its history involves actual honeymooners drawn here during the Great Depression in a real estate scheme.
Long Point Park is a delightful island campground near Sebastian Inlet
One of my favorites, Long Point is a spacious county park with an abundance of waterfront sites on an island in the Indian River Lagoon.
Fall camping brings cooler temps and a morsel of color
As cold fronts ease into the Sunshine State during October, conditions become more favorable for fall camping. You might even get a whiff of autumn color.
6 haunted places in Florida to explore for chills & thrills
Legend suggests these six haunted places in Florida are visited by ghosts. We’re skeptical but one thing we’re sure of: These are beautiful, evocative spots worth discovering at Halloween or any time of year.
A1A Ocean Islands Trail takes you on a scenic byway along North Florida coast
This scenic drive takes you through some rare unspoiled islands, past historic sites, on a car ferry and on roads where tree canopies form green tunnels. It makes a great afternoon drive or you could spend days exploring along this route.
Fort Clinch: Worth a drive to explore Amelia Island park with all sorts of fun
This state park is so worth a drive to explore. It would take days to experience it all – a beautiful beach, a well-preserved Civil War fort, hiking, biking, wildlife, great camping.
Kayak the Suwannee River from White Springs for a historic, scenic stretch
If you think all there is to the Suwannee River is an old song with problematic lyrics, you’re missing out on one of Florida’s greatest kayaking, canoeing and camping rivers.
Sunflowers in Florida: ‘Stunning’ fall scene in Immokalee preserve
Miss the change of seasons? Here’s fall in South Florida: Fields of wild sunflowers bloom every autumn, and a preserve near Immokalee is the best place to view them . You must have a ticket — they’re free — for the flower-viewing event Oct. 2-11.
Oktoberfest has begun! Here’s the full calendar of events across Florida
Prost! German-American clubs are rolling out barrels of beer from the Panhandle to Tampa Bay, Orlando and South Florida.
Camping
Demand is high for RV camping near Key West. We can help.
Breathtaking scenery, pleasant weather and a laid-back vibe greet visitors to the southernmost point, but Key West RV camping is not easy, nor is it cheap. We’ll help you sort through the options.
Beaches
Honeymoon Island: Spectacular natural beach with charming Old Florida history
Honeymoon Island in Dunedin has a big, natural beach where you can get away from people, but also offers a cafe and bikes and kayaks to rent. Its history involves actual honeymooners drawn here during the Great Depression in a real estate scheme.
Bike and Hike
Historic Jungle Trail is an unpaved road to explore original Florida
The picturesque 8-mile sand road in Vero Beach takes you past historic landmarks, including the first US wildlife refuge and a pioneer homestead overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. You can walk, bicycle on fat-tire bikes or drive it slowly. This is an original section of A1A.
Springs
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park: Cool springs, comfy cabins, kayak the Suwannee
Remote, rural and picturesque, northwest Florida rewards your long drive with sparkling springs, the beautiful Suwanee River and scenic rural roads. This state park’s cabins make a great base to explore the region.
Snorkel and Dive
Where can you go snorkeling in Florida if you don’t own a boat?
I have long enjoyed snorkeling from shore to see colorful sealife. Over many years, I’ve scouted these great places to snorkel and see fish from the beach.
