Bob Rountree | FloridaRambler.com

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park bird is purple gallinule

Florida State Parks photo contest: Grand Prize winners ‘Capture the Real Florida’

by Bob Rountree

This year’s Grand Prize winners of Florida State Parks annual photo contest captured some amazing moments in our state parks.

Discover the beaches of Venice, ‘shark tooth capitol of the world’

by Bob Rountree

There are 14 miles of fabulous beaches in Venice, including Sarasota County’s only dog beach. The big attraction is ancient shark’s teeth that continuously wash ashore to the delight of beachgoers.

8 hot tips for summer tent camping in Florida

by Bob Rountree

Florida’s sub-tropical climate is glorious much of the year, but tent camping in summer is a challenge due to smothering humidity.

Chill spring anchors this shady park with swimming, campground, kayaking near Tampa Bay

by Bob Rountree

Tucked into a corner of Hillsborough County is a small 160-acre preserve with a fabulous swimming hole and shady campground along the Alafia River.

O’Leno State Park: Vanishing river, scenic trails & spacious, wooded campground

by Bob Rountree

One of Florida’s original state parks, O’Leno State Park is a wonderland of forest trails and mysterious lakes. The densely wooded campground erases all reminders of civilization, a serene haven not far from busy Interstate 75.

beach camping bahia honda sandspur campgrouond

Planning your Florida camping trip

by Bob Rountree

Camping veterans know that planning a successful Florida camping trip in any season, but especially the busy winter season, takes advance planning and a lot of patience.

Manatee Hammock: Waterfront camping near Kennedy Space Center

by Bob Rountree

I’ve camped a few times at this Brevard County park in Titusville, enjoying its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral National Seashore and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. And I’ve used it as a base for exploring Cocoa Beach.