Ocala National Forest features more than a dozen developed campgrounds and two state parks you can use as a base to explore more than 600 square miles of wilderness.
Parks, Forests & Preserves
Great Escape: Dispersed, primitive camping in Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest covers more than 600 square miles of Central Florida, and all of it is open to dispersed, primitive camping.
Turner River kayak trail: The best in the Everglades
I’ve paddled a lot of trails in the Everglades, but so far, the Turner River is my favorite. It goes from pristine cypress swamp, through mangrove tunnels to sawgrass marsh, and it teems with birds, gators and fish. It’s everything the Everglades offers in one trip.
Little Manatee River near Tampa: Great for kayakers, hikers & campers
Just 45 minute from Tampa/St. Pete, the beautiful river, state park and region is a natural haven that can keep you busy exploring for days. There’s an outfitter to make trip-planning easy, plus it offers cabins and camping.
National parks in Florida: 11 treasures, even some you haven’t visited
Several national parks in Florida are hidden treasures. In honor of National Public Lands Day Sept. 26, when national parks are free, here’s a guide to Florida’s national parks, from the famous to the obscure.
Hidden gems: 12 of the best Florida State Parks to discover
We’ve picked 12 Florida State Parks that are off-the-beaten path and less well-known. From the Keys to the Panhandle, explore these fascinating spots. Each averages fewer than 100 visitors a day.
Ancient oaks caress the soul at Highlands Hammock
Old-growth live oaks draped in air plants and Spanish moss dominate the 9,000-acre Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida’s original state parks. It offers lush nature trails, scenic bike riding and shady camping.
Florida’s best county parks are hidden treasures
Last updated on August 3rd, 2020 at 04:16 pm Often overlooked, Florida’s best county parks are hidden treasures that measure up to their award-winning state-park brethren. County parks can be every bit as impressive, and some have well-managed campgrounds. Almost all are off the beaten path, known mostly by local residents, […]
Florida cabin rentals in state parks: Like camping, but with comfort
One of the best places to enjoy nature is in a cabin in a Florida state park. But the cabins book up fast, so now is the time to make reservations for the winter. Our guide explains which parks have cabins, what they offer and what they cost. Of the 21 parks in Florida with cabins, we’ve stayed in 13 of them.
Ocala National Forest reopens popular recreation areas
The most popular recreation areas in Ocala National Forest, closed during the pandemic, are beginning to reopen with the first wave starting on Monday, June 1, including campgrounds, with more coming on line Monday, June 8. Read for details.
