National parks in Florida go beyond the Everglades. From the gorgeous Gulf to a remote island, there are national parks you’ve probably never heard of. Here’s a guide to them, from the famous to the obscure.
Parks, Forests & Preserves
Informative articles about recreation in Florida parks, forests and preserves, national parks, wildlife refuges, including camping, fishing, paddling, hiking, bicycling and beaches.
Paradise found at 9 state parks with camping in South Florida and the Keys
From coral reefs to Everglades habitats, state parks with camping in South Florida and the Florida Keys may be few but they are distinguished. (3rd in a series)
Free things to do in Florida: My 10 favorite freebies for nature lovers
Many of these free things to do in Florida are off-the-beaten path spots to enjoy nature, wildlife and history — from 300-year-old forts to superb boardwalks.
15 North Florida State Parks with cool campgrounds
Diverse eco-systems are the hallmark of North Florida state parks with camping, from beaches to cool springs and deep woods hideaways.
Florida’s 12 best county parks are treasures
These terrific county parks are popular with locals, rich in things to do, awaiting discovery by the Florida traveler.
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.
Popular campgrounds 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
Camping with the Corps: Waterfront sites at locks along the Okeechobee Waterway
Campers get a front-row seat to the passage of yachts, sailboats and trawlers crossing Florida through locks at three Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
Fanning & Manatee Springs: Hidden treasures for cabins, camping
Fanning Springs and Manatee Springs state parks on the Suwannee River offer beautiful springs, cabins, camping, kayaking & biking in Northwest Florida. Where is this Florida wonderland? Far off the beaten path.
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.
8 exceptional National Wildlife Refuges in Florida
National Wildlife Refuges are sometimes called “America’s best kept secret.” Florida has 29 refuges, the third most of any state. We think these eight are particularly worth discovering.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, Key West gem with seaweed-free beach
As Florida’s Keys suffer their worst seaweed inundation in years, the beach at Fort Zach in Key West is refreshing clear and welcoming.
Juniper Springs in Ocala Forest: Shady kayak run on pristine spring-fed stream
One of Florida’s favorite kayak runs, Juniper Springs, is popular in summer because it’s largely shaded and the water is 72 degrees. It might be the most pristine spring-fed river in Florida. It’s best for experienced paddlers.