This clear cool spring is open for swimming, diving and tubing in summer.The park is home to hundreds of manatees in the winter, when no swimming is allowed.
Orlando/Central Florida
Central Florida Getaways
Things to do in Orlando and Central Florida, hiking, bicycling, kayaking and canoe, RV and tent camping, road trips, historic places and Funky Florida.
Ultimate Road Trip: Driving on Florida’s coastal beaches
Driving your car on the beaches is a Florida tradition going back to horse-and-buggy days. Today, only a few beaches still allow the practice. We show you where and how on the Atlantic Coast.
De Leon Springs: ‘Pancake park’ is so much more
De Leon Springs, about an hour north of Orlando, is a state park with swimming, kayaking and fantastic history. It’s best known for — of all things — its pancakes. Our advice: spend the day and take in the adjacent Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge.
Orlando Wetlands: Perfect stop for wildlife lovers
Orlando Wetlands Park is a must-stop for birders and wildlife fans. It’s home to over 100 roseate spoonbills, 1,700 alligators and 200 species of bird. A 5,000 square foot visitor just opened with exhibits and live animals on display. The park is only 20 minutes off I-95.
Manatee Hammock: Waterfront camping near Kennedy Space Center
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.
Best beaches near Disney World
The best beaches near Disney World are an hour away, and your options expand if you are willing to drive a few minutes more.
Reservations for entry at Wekiwa Springs State Park expected to ease long lines this summer
The pilot program may be extended to other crowded state parks if successful. You can purchase passes up to 60 days in advance.
Tiger Creek Preserve helps make Lake Wales Ridge a hiker’s heaven
Hikers should discover the Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve, one of several sites located on Florida’s “central highlands,” a beautiful, hilly landscape with many appealing trails.
Hillsborough River State Park offers historic charm, shady campground, lots to do outdoors
Hillsborough River State Park has been closed since October after getting slammed by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Unsung heritage corridor: Springs, history, scenic byway in Central Florida
This off-the-beaten track region offers springs, history and Florida scenic drives along the St. Johns, the ‘river of lakes.’ It’s centered around the Old Florida city of DeLand, an hour north of Orlando.