Hillsborough River State Park has been closed since October after getting slammed by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Author: Bob Rountree
Red Tide Status Update
See where health alerts have been issued and which beaches are affected.
Best camping in Southeast Florida parks
The best South Florida camping can be found in these 17 public parks, which are managed by counties, the state and federal governments.
Dupuis preserve excels for nature, fishing and free camping in western Palm Beach County
Nature hikes, free camping, off-road bicycling, fishing and paddling are fabulous in this pair of magical wildlife areas in the far reaches of Palm Beach County
11 enchanting Central Florida state parks with camping
Central Florida is home to a diverse selection of Florida state parks with camping. Something for everybody, even if you don’t own a tent or RV. (2nd in a series)
Cortez Fishing Festival: Feb. 14-15, 2026
This tiny fishing village wedged between Bradenton and Anna Marie Island celebrates its rich heritage as a commercial fishing hub.
Faver Dykes State Park: Camp, paddle, fish near historic St. Augustine
Faver Dykes State Park offers excellent kayaking, productive fishing and woodsy camping just 15 miles from historic St. Augustine.
Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge: Wild spot to kayak, hike, bike
It’s a perfect time to explore Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach. The kayak trail has been cleared of water lilies clogging the way. You can rent or launch kayaks here, but also hike an exquisite boardwalk through a cypress forest and see birds and other wildlife on the trails.
Escape from Florida: Take the ferry to Bimini
The ferry to Bimini takes you to another world just 50 miles offshore from Fort Lauderdale. Whether a day trip or a week, there are many opportunities for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, fishing or just exploring island history. I went to see how much Bimini has changed.
Camping in the grasslands of Kissimmee Prairie
Amateur astronomers and photographers love this peaceful savanna in the heart of Florida, an ideal destination for stargazing, bird watching, and not a bad getaway from the world at large.