The rare and endangered Florida panther makes its home in the wilds of the western Everglades and the Big Cypress Swamp, much of the area preserved in protected state and federal lands accessible to hikers.
Author: Bob Rountree
Tent camping in the Florida Keys: Slim pickin’s but doable
Late summer may not the best time of year for tent camping in the Florida Keys, but it is the right time to plan for fall, winter and spring camping.
Kelly Park at Rock Springs: Cool swimming, shady campground, paddle Rock Springs Run
Kelly Park is a popular summer destination for swimming in cool springs and paddling scenic Rock Springs Run, including the stunning Emerald Cut.
Lake Placid charms with clowns & caladiums, good eatin’ & great yarns
Lake Placid has quite a few stories to tell, and they are told in murals. On the walls of 50 buildings. All over town.
Withlacoochee River Park, Green Swamp & dark skies
Withlacoochee River Park is a base camp for hiking and bicycling in the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve with one special characteristic — it’s also a “dark sky” park favored by amateur astronomers.
Two Florida favorites grace 2024 list of Best Beaches in America
Both beaches are on Florida’s Gulf Coast and are perennial favorites of “Dr. Beach,” whose annual Best Beaches in America list is highly regarded.
Quiet escape to lonely Lake George State Forest
There’s not much going on in Lake George State Forest, making it an ideal getaway for a few days of solitude along the St. John’s River.
Urban paddle: Al Capone’s island and backyards of the rich and famous
Explore elegant landscapes, megayachts and homes of the rich and famous in Boca Raton from the comfort of your kayak.
These campgrounds are ideal for stargazing
International Dark Skies Week is April 2-8, 2024, but you can gaze at the stars around any New Moon. We recommend these 12 campgrounds for the best experience. #DarkSkyWeek #DiscoverTheNight
7 State Parks with camping near Tampa Bay
From beach camping on a tropical island to camping on rivers in dense forests, you might be surprised by these Florida state parks with camping in the state’s second largest metropolitan area. (5th in a series)